NJ Lifestyle Summer 2018

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

SUMMER 2018

Volume 16 | Number 3

Shore Things SUMMER FASHION TRENDS • A VISIT TO ELECTRIC CITY BICEP-BEARING RIDES • LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT SCENE HEATS UP

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The View

“Trust in the magic of new beginnings.”

—Anonymous

Exciting Developments

W

ow, what a spring it’s been. We’ve witnessed a lot of crazy weather, and that’s not all. There also have been some exciting developments here within our region. For me, one of the most exciting has been my decision to take over the publication of New Jersey Lifestyle magazine. It’s ironic — but not out of the ordinary — that a 14year relationship might lead to something this special.

When I started with the publication, I worked closely with former editor Joe Longshore and owner Bill Scarduzzio.

Both men were like a father to me, and offered thoughtful guidance; in turn, they earned my utmost respect. These were consistent, quality relationships that we built over time — much like the magazine that they produced and its legacy that remains today. In their honor, I will do my best to maintain their high standards and uncompromising quality that has defined New Jersey Lifestyle.

I am fortunate to have Darla Hendricks, the former publisher and Bill Scarduzzio’s daughter, alongside me as I begin this journey. Darla will continue her role as the art director, helping to maintain the quality and consistency of this beloved publication. Consistency, as you know, is important. It’s like going to your favorite restaurant and getting a friendly greeting from the server who already knows your order. It just makes the experience that much better.

We’re planning on expanding our coverage of local events and new businesses to showcase the region and its many choices. The new properties in Atlantic City, such as the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Ocean Resort Casino, bring our area much-needed jobs and a fresh burst of life. I’m looking forward to an exciting summer and I will do my best to bring that to you in the pages of New Jersey Lifestyle.

I will be working every day to bring more value to our advertisers with expanded email, targeted direct marketing and beautiful photography. We will be expanding our staff to accommodate those services, providing advertisers with the complete communication package.

I look forward to your feedback too, as valued readers, to create a magazine that truly showcases South Jersey.

Happy reading!

how to reach us

Publisher

SUBSCRIPTIONS For new subscriptions, changes of address or questions about an existing subscription, call 609.513.0813.

ADVERTISING Want to advertise your business in "NJ Lifestyle Magazine"? Request a media kit by calling us at 609.513.0813.

NJLIFESTYLEONLINE.COM 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. We can be found at select retail locations, golf clubs, restaurants, doctor offices and more.

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LIFESTYLE | Summer 2018

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CONTENTS Key West Grouper with a red bliss potato and a fresh vegetable bundle at The Ram's Head Inn

DEPARTMENTS

30 The Hard Rock kicked off its summer entertainment program with singer Carrie Underwood.

Local Chatter.............................................. 6

40

A welcoming change of pace from bustling Atlantic City, Ram's Head Inn is a true dining oasis.

The buzz on happenings in and around our area.

Lifestyle Fashion......................................... 8

FEATURES

Summer trend watch.

Lifelines.................................................... 12

Throwing Shade................................. 10

How to find your inner child this summer.

Shady solutions to combat the rays.

Entertainment Spotlight............................. 13

Ecstatic Electric City........................... 24

Transcending worlds.

Travel to Scranton, PA and joyously relive the Industrial Revolution.

Lifestyle Wellness....................................... 14 Finding that perfect fit.

Pony Power........................................ 26 The bicep-bearing Alfa Romeo and Dodge Challenger.

Health Watch............................................. 16

Refinement Redefined......................... 40

Business Spotlight..................................... 20

A breast cancer survivor’s story.

Rediscover the elegance of fine dining at the historic Ram's Head Inn.

26 Now that it's summer, the time has come to

put on your tank top and flex those muscles.

Minding your business.

Money Watch............................................. 21 Decoding new tax law.

Arts & Entertainment................................. 22 Up, up and away with the arts!

Lifestyle Entertainment.............................. 30 Nightlife amplified.

Lifestyle Opinion........................................ 32 The race is on.

The Social Scene........................................ 34 Get the picture on the latest events and happenings.

Lifestyle Cooking........................................ 43 Delicious summer memories.

Lifestyle Wine............................................ 44 18 exciting bottles.

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Dining Gallery............................................ 46 All the details on the area’s great dining venues.

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LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

MAGAZINE

Publisher

Nick Valinote Creative Director

Darla Hendricks Copy Editor

Alyson Boxman Levine Contributing Editor

Lisa Johnson Contributing Writers

Call today 609-214-1058 Uber rates with black car service.

Harry Hurley Alyson Boxman Levine Michelle Dawn Mooney Felicia L. Niven Matt and Tom Reynolds Elaine Rose Will Savarese Phillip Silverstone David Spatz Robin Stoloff Travel Editor

Dan Schlossberg Photographers

CELEBRATING 115 YEARS OF FREEDOM!

Paul Dempsey Kristian Gonyea Justin Tinel Nick Valinote Eric Weeks

– NOW IS THE TIME TO JOIN THE LEGACY –

www.njlifestyleonline.com

Online Media Info.

New Jersey Lifestyle is published by Nicholas & Partner’s Media, LLC. The entire contents of New Jersey Lifestyle are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher. Nicholas & Partner’s Media, LLC assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. Nicholas & Partners Media, 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:

Nicholas & Partners Media, LLC

219 E. White Horse Pike • Galloway, NJ 08205 609-652-5555 • acharley.com 6

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PO Box 1183 Absecon, NJ 08201 Telephone: 609-513-0813

Rough storms call for strong anchors.

Whether you’re a parent concerned with a custody arrangement, a property owner with a complex land use issue, or a contractor contemplating litigation, the attorneys at Hankin, sandman, palladino and Weintrob have the experience to protect your interests, even in the choppiest of waters.

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Main Office Atlantic City 30 South New York Avenue | Atlantic City, NJ | P: (609) 344-5161 Cape May Court House Office 18 N. Main Street | Cape May Court House, NJ | P: (609) 465-5557

www.hankinsandman.com

MuniCipAl COurt

L ocal C hatter All Eyes on Entertainment

HARD ROCK RECENTLY ANNOUNCED their entertainment lineup to kick off the summer. The star-studded calendar will include A-list talent and performances, including Amy Schumer and Friends, Florida Georgia Line, and Kid Rock, plus hundreds of upcoming shows and events booked for the new resort.

“The grand opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will set the tone for a new era of entertainment in Atlantic City,” said Jim Allen, Hard Rock International Chairman & CEO. “Our 500 million dollar, newly-reimagined property will offer something for everyone.”

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be a go-to destination for world-class entertainment, rock-star service, and their signature legendary vibe. The music-inspired hotel will feature dynamic culinary experiences, superstar performances, sporting events, a beach bar, and a spectacular casino complete with more than 2,100 slot machines and 120 table games.

New Casino Celebrates Being Different

ACCORDING TO BRUCE DEIFIK, the Colorado developer who bought Atlantic City’s former Revel casino in January for $200 million, the new Ocean Resort Casino is very different than its predecessor. For starters, finding your way around will be much easier, as the wall blocking the casino off from Boardwalk access is being replaced by stairs and the dizzying “escalator to heaven” at the main entrance will now have glass safety panels on either side.

Other differences include: a two-night stay will no longer be required, and more offerings for kids and families will be introduced. As an added bonus, actor Mark Wahlberg will have a large presence at the new casino, revealed Deifik. The award-winning thespian will open his popular Wahlburgers burger restaurant at the new resort, as well as a highly-anticipated bar called Entourage.

Fight Club Visits AC

ATLANTIC CITY WILL HOLD the first MMA Pro League event on July 20 inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City. The team-based mixed martial arts league was recently launched by former HBO Sports executive Mark Taffet, a key figure in the creation of boxing's pay-per-view model. The new promotion will host five events at the same venue in 2018 before introducing an eight-team concept in 2019.

Teams will consist of 12 athletes — 10 males, two females — across six weight divisions.

The July 20 event will feature teams from Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Former UFC fighter Dan Miller will coach opposite Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner Daniel Gracie. Taffet hopes his newly-formed league will seep deep into the roots of the community and establish the same feelings fans have for professional basketball, baseball, football, and hockey teams.

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Place Your (Sports) Bets IN JUNE, GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY signed Assembly Bill 4111, allowing sports betting at New Jersey casinos and racetracks for certain professional and collegiate sports or athletic events.

Under the legislation, a licensed casino or racetrack may accept wagers at a sports wagering lounge at its respective premises, and can petition to operate a sports pool at a temporary facility during the construction of a sports wagering lounge. In addition, licensed casinos and racetracks can seek to operate an online sports pool beginning 30 days after the effective date of the bill.

“I’m thrilled to sign Assembly Bill 4111 because it means that our casinos in Atlantic City and our racetracks throughout our state can attract new business and new fans, boosting their own long-term financial prospects,” said Governor Murphy. “This is the right move for New Jersey and it will strengthen our economy.”

According to reports, the estimated state tax revenues that could be generated from sports betting are projected at approximately $13 million in the first full year of operation.

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 Here Comes Demi

Revel Eateries Reopened

WHEN THE REVEL CASINO closed in 2014, it took four of Chef Jose Garces’ restaurants with it. Well, call it a comeback as two of the popular chef’s former restaurants are reopening at the new Ocean Resort Casino this summer.

Garces’ Amada and Distrito are slated to reopen, much to the delight of local restaurateurs and visiting foodies. According to published reports, Garces will provide “culinary expertise and menu consultation” at Amada, Distrito, and a barbecue restaurant, Pit Boss BBQ & Beers. Let the delicious dining begin!

Everyone Loves Neil Simon

SPEND AN EVENING this summer enjoying the enduring comedic prose of beloved playwright Neil Simon. Visit the Cape May Stage from June 27-August 3 for Chapter Two, directed by Roy Steinberg.

Filled with the humor that made Neil Simon famous, this semiautobiographical story of a recently widowed writer, his press agent brother, soap star love interest, and her neurotic best friend explores what it means to take a second chance on romance. For tickets visit www. capemaystage.org.

Demi Lovato

DEMI LOVATO'S ONLY East Coast concert this summer will take place at the Jersey Shore.

The singer and actress recently announced she'll be performing on the Atlantic City beach on July 26 with special guest Lauv, as part of the resort town's ongoing concert series on the sand.

Lovato mostly will be touring Europe this summer, with one stop scheduled in California.

Other acts in the Atlantic City Beachfest Concert Series 2018 include Sam Hunt, with Kane Brown on July 1 and The Chainsmokers, with Bazzi & Gryffin on July 29.

Margate Woman Wins the Crown

MARGATE RESIDENT AND VOICE COACH Suzie Neustadter was crowned Ms. New Jersey Senior America 2018 in June at Harrah’s Resort. The annual pageant for women 60 and older was the first Neustadter had ever entered. According to reports, she wowed the crowd with her version of “Home” from the Broadway show The Wiz. Rounding out the top five for Ms. New Jersey Senior America; the fourth runner-up was Geri Georger and the third runner-up was Sheila Jackson. The second runner-up was Millie Tate, and first runner-up was Debra Canale. There was a tie for the title of Miss Congeniality, with Roxanne Terramagra and Debra Canale both awarded the title. njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Summer 2018

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LifeStyle Fashion By Alyson Boxman Levine

Summer Trend Watch 6 Essential Items to Elevate Your Season in the Sun

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nnn Folksy Gingham Fashionistas usually think of checks as being a cold-weather-only pattern, but many high-end designers have permeated their Summer 2018 runway collections with patterned prints. There were red and blue plaids at Alexander McQueen, checked tights at Fendi, and this featured folksy gingham dress at Loewe. With its pastel flair and whimsical pattern, this garment is both comfortable and stylish.

Off-the-Shoulder Top, Peter Pilotto

Coverup, Camilla

An Ideal Coverup

Folksy Gingham

Gingham Dress, Loewe

Hollywood to the Jersey Shore. From high-waisted garments to retroinspired pieces,.--- infuse your seasonal wardrobe with one or more of these chic items.

The Cold Shoulder

he Summer of 2018 arrived at the Jersey Shore with a vengeance in the form of a sweltering, yet welcoming, heatwave. Each year it seems as though the spring season becomes increasingly shorter and, sometime in early June, we go from 60 degree weather to 90 degrees within a matter of days. But who’s complaining? With the sand and shoreline at our fingertips, we’re the envy of all the visitors this season forced to travel great distances just to dip their toes in our refreshing Atlantic Ocean.

Update your summer wardrobe by adding a few key essential items to your closet. Looking on-trend this season requires going a bit out of your comfort zone with looks that will bring a touch of

njlifestyleonline.com

nnn The Cold Shoulder The widespread shoulder-baring trend continues for summer as countless designers can’t seem to get enough of this ongoing look.

Perfect for a sunset cruise or an evening strolling around Cape May, this soft look from the Peter Pilotto label oozes carefree summer evenings at the shore. For the company’s Resort 2018 collection, the designers have taken inspiration from their love of pattern, texture, and color; weaving together elements from the art and design world to create a collection that reflects the craftsmanship and beauty

nnn An Ideal Coverup From long and flowy, to short and sassy, a well-chosen coverup can liven up your day at the beach. Lush and vibrant prints add a touch of energy and playfulness to any occasion. From coverups featuring delicate embroidery and wild prints, to bold coverup dresses, each item is an essential layering piece for the beach. This summer, try this

High Waist Bikini, LMF

Smocked Top, Innika Choo

Swimming in Style

High-Waisted Luxe

High-Waisted Shorts, Saint Laurent

surrounding them.

Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos comprise the dynamic design team behind Pilotto’s successful namesake label. Launched in 2007, the duo’s first collection of digital printed designs proved an instant hit, winning the team instant acclaim and securing their first buyers. The British-based brand is now sold in over 50 countries and is stocked by a bevy of luxury retailers.

Now operating from their own studio in East London, the duo, who first met while studying at the prestigious Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, hold a number of industry accolades. As the brand continues to gain international exposure, the label continues to push its colorful and graphic aesthetic in new and exciting directions.

The Reinvented Smocked Top

Spanish fashion house Loewe approaches 170 years as one of the world’s major luxury houses, defined by the modernity of its past, an unwavering confidence in the present, and a firm look forward.

Craftsmanship, progress, and unequalled expertise are Loewe’s founding pillars. Under Jonathan Anderson, Loewe’s creative director, the brand recently started a new chapter, presenting itself to the world more multi-faceted and dynamic than ever. Pairing of-themoment functionality and aesthetics with ingenious construction and incredible softness is an enduring benchmark of the company.

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LIFESTYLE | Summer 2018

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LIFEST YLE FASHION chic coverup from Camilla. Twinkling crystals and a color-saturated pattern make this kaleidoscopic caftan the piece you'll reach for whenever the bohemian winds blow.

Founded in 2003 in Sydney, Australia’s Bondi beach by designer and artist Camilla Franks, the Camilla label has captured the imagination of the world with its vibrant and bespoke bohemian lifestyle offering. According to the company, every piece is hand-cut, every crystal is applied with precision, and every print is placed by hand.

“My vision is to awaken the adventurous spirit that resides within all of us (no matter who we are), because we believe that everyone has a right to experience freedom and feel joy,” said Franks. “We embrace all walks of life, as we believe it is everyone’s right to feel beautiful no matter their age, shape or race.”

nnn High-Waisted Luxe Whether you like it or not, one item that always seems to comes back into rotation this time of year are shorts, and this season, highwaisted shorts are the go-to style among the fashion elite. These power shorts can be as polished as a pencil shirt, like these beauties from the Saint Laurent label.

Founded in 1961, Yves Saint Laurent is considered one of the world's most prominent fashion houses, and is known for its modern and iconic pieces; such as its tuxedo jackets for women, synonymous with youth and freedom. Under the creative direction of Anthony Vaccarello since April 2016, Yves Saint Laurent continues to position itself at the summit of the luxury universe.

Saint Laurent markets a broad range of women's and men's ready-to-wear products, leather goods, shoes, and jewelry. Yves Saint

Throwing Shade

1. The Ultimate Sun Block

Shady solutions to combat the rays

1.

Fear the sun’s rays no more with Super Power Sunscreen Mousse, a lightweight, whipped, antioxidant-rich mousse with SPF 50 protection.

Formulated with nourishing shea butter, antioxidant-packed blue sea kale, and a refreshing hint of cucumber and citrus, it's also water resistant for up to 80 minutes and, P.S., kids love it too, Supergoop, $32.

3.

2.

2. Umbrella Alternative

The Sun Sail Cabana is a machine-washable beach cabana made out of non-rip parachute material designed for breezy beach afternoons in the sun. Even in heavy wind, your Sun Sail Cabana will stay put, allowing you to savor the 60 square feet of beach shade with no hassles, sunsailcabana.com, $89.99.

3. Luscious Lip Care

Sugar Sport Treatment Sunscreen SPF 30 moisturizes and provides UV protection for the lips, face, and eye area. This durable, waterresistant formula is ideal for an active lifestyle, offering a protective shield against damaging rays and other free radical environmental aggressors; its wide-stick applicator glides on with ease making it perfect for on-the-go use, $25.

4. Head Gear 4.

6.

Don’t leave home without a fun, floppy hat for the beach this summer and this Sunny Sequined Floppy Sun Hat features “you're blocking my sun” script in sequins. The durable, man-made fibers are woven to resemble straw and a cute vintage ribbon adorns the band, Eugenia Kim, $495.

5. Old-School Shade

5.

With its classic squared-off silhouette and sturdy Japanese titanium construction, these Upshaw shades exude old-school confidence. From coveted designer Warby Parker — who is known for offering designer eyewear at a revolutionary price, while leading the way for socially conscious businesses — you will love these polished gold beauties, $145.

6. Sexy Sleeves

This Spring Fever Long Sleeve Spring Suit offers a great warmth and practical design. With its long sleeves and traditional back zip entry, this style continues to be a summer favorite, plus, you can depend on its cheeky seat to stay put during all your maneuvers, Billabong, $96.

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Terra Mar Plaza | Tilton Road | Northfield, NJ | 609-641-2088

CLOTHING • SPORTSWEAR • SHOES

FOR MEN

nnn Swimming in Style Not your Mom’s bikini … the high-waisted suits of today are a cut above their 1970 counterparts.

Making a huge splash, these retro-inspired styles are flattering for all figures because they cover up everyone's trouble spot: the tummy. Check out this Colby Ruffle High Waist Bikini Set in Pink Seersucker by the Lisa Marie Fernandez label.

With its adorable ruffle detail and on-trend hue, this is a true summer must-have.

Lisa Marie Fernandez (LMF) is a global luxury lifestyle brand that encompasses swimwear, destination wear, and active wear. The collection was launched in 2009 by then-fashion editor Lisa Marie Fernandez who pioneered the neoprene trend with Bond girl bikinis and surf-inspired maillots, and introduced meticulous construction and detail to the world of swim.

LMF is an authentic reflection of the life and style of its founder. Lisa Marie lives in her designs, documenting how she wears her swimwear and dresses in her travels around the world. The look is effortlessly glamorous, resonating with the brand’s global clientele who post pictures of themselves everywhere from Tulum to Patmos. LMF pieces are versatile by design. They can go from the beach to the city; everything is meant to be mixed and matched with ease. The label has inspired a wide-ranging cult following of influencers and celebrities that includes Elle Macpherson, Rihanna, Selena Gomez, and Oprah Winfrey.

Lou Marchiano

Laurent Beauté also has a notable presence in the luxury beauty and fragrance market, although this is owned by L'Oréal who hold exclusive licenses for the name.

nnn The Reinvented Smocked Top It’s heating up, which means it’s time to bring out the dresses, or in this case, the smocks. More flattering than the shirred styles of days past, these reinvented smoked tops have form-fitting bodices that stretch to hug your shape, along with forgiving relaxed waists. Bali-based fashion stylist Innika Choo has just launched her debut Innika Choo collection entitled Smockery. Try one on for size, featuring voluminous sleeves, hand-stitched patterns and beautiful, soft colors — it’s no wonder her smocks are flying off the racks.

Australian-born Innika Choo became an Instagram sensation after launching a line of smocked dresses and tops in 2016. Inspired by her free-spirited lifestyle in Bali and vintage pieces she sources online, the former stylist creates effortless, throw-on-and-go staples you'll want to reach for on summer days. n njlifestyleonline.com

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LifeLines

BY MICHELLE DAWN MOONEY

A Shore Thing

How to Find Your Inner Child This Summer Hooray for summer! Now that 4th of July is behind us, there is no denying that the season is in full swing, and after what seemed like New Jersey's snowiest winter ever (it wasn't … I checked), we sure do deserve it. So, what are you doing with the rest of YOUR summer? Well, I may have an idea for you.

Remember back when you were still in school and there was that feeling that you could reinvent yourself over summer break? Maybe you were determined to throw so many footballs that there was no way the coach could keep you on the bench in the fall, or you wanted to nail that crazy thing called Algebra, so you could finally make honor roll next year. A lot of you guys were hoping beyond hope that 10 or 15 more little chin hairs would pop out to give you that 5 o'clock shadow, and many girls dreamed of becoming an even better version of themselves, à la She's All That when a post-makeover Rachel Leigh Cook walks down the stairs to greet an enamored Freddie Prinze Junior.

Whatever it might've been that you wanted to accomplish, there was something about the power of summer that was full of hope and excitement for what may come; and how it could change our lives for the better. Not to mention, it was fun!

What's changed? Well, a lot. Whether you're single, coupled, or part of a large family with loads of kids and/or pets in tow, you no doubt have quite a few more responsibilities than you did when you were in school. While it's a lovely thought, the idea of “summer break” doesn't exist for most of us because our schedule is the same in July as it was in the winter and spring. If you are fortunate enough to take a vacation this summer, you may find a brief respite, but most likely it's barely enough to scratch the surface when it comes to negating the normal hustle and bustle of our hectic lives. Long gone are the days when we could while away our time riding bikes, lying on the beach, or sitting by the pool eating ice pops and seeing who could be crowned best belly flopper. Even so, there is still no reason we can't take advantage of all the magic that this beloved season represents. Here are five ways to help you feel like a kid again this summer.

4) Treat yourself.

Indulge in at least one (preferably more) of your favorite summertime treats. Funnel cake, ice cream sundaes and/or boardwalk fries can go a long way when it comes to bringing back some amazing childhood memories. Don't let your kids have all the fun! You can walk off the calories with an extra lap on the boards.

5) Make a list.

What are three things you want to do, or places you want to go this summer? Are you dying to check out that new roller coaster at the amusement park? Maybe it's been ages since you've gone miniature golfing, or you simply can't wait for that new summer blockbuster to come out. Don't walk, run! Ok, maybe you don't have to run, but at least go. If you can't enjoy a full summer vacation from days of old, you can at least take a few hours here and there to escape.

Michelle Dawn Mooney is a nationally-recognized author, as well as a TV and radio personality. She has co-hosted numerous radio morning shows and was the former long-time anchor for Atlantic City's NBC affiliate. Currently the lead anchor for SNJ Today, which airs M-F at 7 & 11 PM on Channels 4, 26 and HD 789, Michelle is also the creator of the lifestyle brand “Middays with Michelle Dawn Mooney.” Her variety show podcast and daily/weekly features — offering inspirational stories and helpful tips to promote positive living — can be found at michelledawnmooney.net.

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3) See (the new) you in September.

Remember how everyone used to ask you what you did over summer break? On the lines of wanting to be an even better you, what's one thing you've always wanted to try or tackle? Ever thought about learning French, taking a Zumba class, playing the piano, or learning how to surf? Try it! Take advantage of this season as a clean slate to reach a goal or maybe do a mental reset to get more organized, eat healthier, or start working out.

2) Turn the radio up.

Chances are there are several songs you could listen to right now that would instantly stir up fond memories of summers gone by. Music has an amazing way of transporting us back in time to some of our most treasured moments. The good news is that almost any song you can imagine is available online or through iTunes, so grab your phone, pull up some music, and take a trip back in time. There's something special about driving under the stars on a summer night with the windows down and your favorite old school summer jam playing.

1) Remember what really counts.

When you think about your favorite memories, there is one common denominator ... you were happy. It doesn't matter if you're at Disneyworld or waiting in line for the ice cream truck, at the end of the day it's not as much about what you do this summer as it is who you do it with. Whether it's making s'mores or searching for sea shells, just being with your loved ones will help set you up to make some amazing memories that can last a lifetime for both kids, and kids at heart. n

ENTERTAINMENT SPOTLIGHT

Transcending Worlds: The Bay Atlantic Symphony A HUSH FELL OVER THE ROOM AS THE MUSICIANS READIED their sheet music and positioned their instruments. At center stage, the conductor stood in statuesque grandeur. All eyes were suddenly riveted on him as he raised his baton. Then with a graceful downward sweep, the air filled with lush tones, intoxicating harmonies and a lyrical melody.

It was in a word, magical.

For more than three decades, the Bay Atlantic Symphony has introduced adults and young people to the beauty and power of classical music. Founded as the Bridgeton Symphony in 1983, the orchestra performs symphonic and chamber concerts under the talented baton of Music Director Jed Gaylin. The Bay Atlantic Symphony is the only professional orchestra to serve the five southern-most counties of New Jersey.

Those who have ever been to a concert by the Bay Atlantic Symphony understand how transformative a performance can be.

“Listeners feel far more than just welcomed by words from the podium; they feel engaged as participants in a wordless musical conversation that is spontaneous, big-hearted and eloquent,” according to Maestro Gaylin. “People are amazed how accessible the music is to them. A couple of years ago, one of our board members was sitting next to a Stockton student. She noticed that the student had tears in her eyes, and asked if everything was okay. She responded, ‘Yes. I just didn’t know it would be so beautiful.’

Maestro Gaylin credits the highly-trained professionals that make up the orchestra, and include some of “the best musicians in the region from Philadelphia to New York and Baltimore.” World-class soloists often perform with the symphony and there are a number of pieces that make their debut at one of their concerts. The New Jersey State Council on the Arts has honored Bay Atlantic Symphony with a 2017 Citation of Excellence, which denotes arts programs and projects that receive the Council’s highest possible assessment.

But the Symphony’s value to the community goes far beyond performing great music. They have an extensive education program that creates meaningful, interactive music experiences for children, adults, the visually-impaired, veterans, and seniors with limited mobility.

Their Young People's Concerts introduce classical music to students via fully narrated symphonic performances and accompanying curriculum guides. “Last year, we reached 1,400 students and educators

with two performances at the Landis Theatre, and another 500 students and educators at Stockton,” said Maestro Gaylin.

The Bay Atlantic Symphony also has forged a partnership with the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children in Avalon, New Jersey, to bring the world of music to visually impaired children. With the help of an orchestra member, students explore music and perform in a concert. In addition, Bay Atlantic Symphony members mentor students at Sovereign Avenue School in Atlantic City and the Atlantic City and Vineland High Schools.

In addition to the support they receive from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, foundations and corporate supporters, these programs are also greatly supported by the proceeds they receive from their annual gala, according to Executive Director Meg Sippey, a musician herself who has a passion for keeping the arts alive. “Each fall, we host a gala where people, businesses or corporations can purchase sponsorships, VIP tickets or general admission tickets. If VIP or sponsorship, attendees not only get to experience the concert, but also a cocktail hour and dinner with open bar and a post concert dessert reception.”

Currently, the summer season is well under way, with performances in Margate, Avalon and Cape May. The “summer concerts” won’t all feature winners of the "O Say Can You Sing?!” competition — they just perform the Star Spangled Banner on the July 3 concert in Margate and July 4 concert in Avalon. Two winners are chosen. For year-round residents, or those who want to make the trip from Philadelphia, subscriptions are now available for the 2018-19 season, with individual tickets for performances going on sale later this summer. Performances are at the Stockton Performing Arts Center (PAC), the historic Landis Theater in Vineland. Come early and enjoy a pre-concert talk by Maestro Gaylin.

“Importantly, there are no ‘bad’ seats,” said Maestro Gaylin. “Being able to experience this music live is truly transformative. When you see the emotion, the tears, you realize that the audience has been taken out of their lives into another time and place,” said Maestro Gaylin. “When we perform, the feeling in the room is just incredible.” n To learn more or to reserve tickets for a future performance, visit www.BayAtlanticSymphony.org, call (609)449-8780, or visit the Bay Atlantic Symphony on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ BayAtlanticSymphony. njlifestyleonline.com

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LifeStyle Wellness

By Felicia L. Niven, Photos by Eric Weeks

Finding that Perfect Fit Cindy Tyree RN, Nurse Consultant, and Bill Resnick, Program Developer for Seashore Gardens Without Walls LLC WHEN MY 82-YEAR-OLD FATHER spent over a week in the hospital last fall, reality hit home quickly. He would need real help when he came home, and my mother wasn’t going to be able to do it alone. I began turning over scenarios in my mind. Would I be able to move in and help my mother, while still running a business and managing my own household? It made me wish we had planned for this occurrence.

As a matter of fact, we had. Unbeknownst to me, my parents had purchased long term care insurance years ago, which fully covered the cost of his care. But until then, it never occurred to me to have the conversation with my parents — the one where we thoughtfully consider where they’d like to spend their Golden years when they could no longer care for themselves. I’d avoided the topic because it wasn’t comfortable or easy to broach. But avoiding it is clearly not the answer.

As the sandwich generation, we’re constantly pulled between caring for, and supporting, our children — and our parents. Now as we contemplate retirement, we’re also going to be helping our parents to get the right care, and find the right place. It’s an awesome responsibility. As with any situation where I found myself unsure, I turned to the experts, and got some sound advice.

“Because circumstances change gradually over time, families may not realize they need help until it becomes quite apparent,“ says Alysia Price, MSW, LSW, CALA, Administrator of Seashore Gardens Living Center (SGLC) & Assisted Living. “At that point, it can be overwhelming.” She cautions families to spend some time researching the options. “Ask questions. Find out what your insurance covers.

Take a tour. Finding the right fit for your loved one is so important.

It makes the difference between a seamless experience and one that can be quite stressful.”

A Glimpse Inside Seashore Gardens Living Center Seashore Gardens Living Center (SGLC) offers a continuum of services which include assisted living, short and long term nursing care, Alzheimer’s care, respite care and full rehabilitation services all under one roof. There’s also Seashore Gardens Without Walls, the home health service which turned out to be a wonderful fit to get my father back on his feet. The residential programs provide full support in the tradition of honoring thy father and mother.

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“We care for our residents’ complete health needs, including medical, social and emotional,” says Edmond Francisco, BSN, RN, Director of Nursing, SGLC. “We have to look at the entire person not just the medical side. We get to know them and their families. We appreciate the journey that has brought our residents to us. We think of them as our extended family and we honor them as such.”

SGLC’s active schedule of activities includes stimulating programs, themed parties, trips, a beauty salon, gift shop and a highly-trained professional staff to see to their needs. These activities and events are at the core of that most important element of social interaction with other people outside of the family. The staff of Seashore Gardens Living Center is skilled in encouraging social interaction among residents to make their days more fulfilling.

A Great Season to Visit Seashore Gardens Living Center Summer is filled with activity at SGLC. The Alzheimer’s Garden & Sensory Trail features beautiful blooms and delicious herbs that make their way into the meals at SGLC. Residents can try their hand at gardening, or simply enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic surroundings.

There are beloved events from the Summer Carnival to the annual Dog Fashion Parade, concerts, picnics and more. There’s a wheelchair-accessible putting green. Residents enjoy scenic walks around the property and chat sessions on the Southern-style porch.

Summer also signals the return of the Summer Sizzlers Youth Program, a group of teenagers who both work and volunteer at SGLC. At the end of the summer, the students perform a talent show with the residents.

Visitors are welcome at any time, for tours or to enjoy a cup of coffee in the café in SGLC’s Boardwalk. “Call anytime to set up a visit,” says Price. “We’re here to answer your questions.” Ms. Price may be reached at (609) 404-4848 or via email at pricea@ seashoregardens.org.

The Simon & Sylvia Zisman Seashore Gardens Living Center (SGLC) is a nonprofit home for the aged, guided by Jewish tradition, law, and charity, dedicated to enriching the quality of life for its residents. For more information, visit seashoregardens.org. n

Summer is in Full Swing at the Seashore Gardens Foundation Golf Tournament The Seashore Gardens Foundation Centennial Golf Tournament will be held on Monday July 16, 2018, at Ron Jaworksi’s Blue Heron Pines Golf Club, 550 Country Club Drive in Egg Harbor City, N.J. There will be Wine & Painting for those who prefer not to golf, but who still wish to support the event. All will enjoy a BBQ dinner following play.

Proceeds from the tournament will benefit Seashore Gardens Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c) organization created to provide aid and support for the health care programs and supportive services provided

by Seashore Gardens Living Center (SGLC), including Alzheimer’s Outreach Services. For more information, visit seashoregardens.org/golf/.

Seashore Gardens Living Center Located on a 20 acre campus in Galloway, this 125,000 square foot senior Living Center is truly an environment for living. Our resident-centered culture includes: • Rehabilitation • Assisted Living • Skilled Nursing Care • Hospice Care • Alzheimer’s/Dementia Services • Short-Term ‘Respite’ Stays • Independent Housing • Home Care/Outreach It’s a place you can call home. You have to take a tour and see for yourself!

Call (609)404-4848 or visit SeashoreGardens.org to schedule your tour today!

22 West Jimmie Leeds Road, Galloway NJ 08205 www.SeashoreGardens.org • office@seashoregardens.org

Seashore Gardens Foundation Centennial Golf Tournament Est. 1916

July 16, 2018 www.seashoregardens.org/golf Seashore Gardens Living Center is an independent nonprofit 501( c)(3) Home for the Aged

Health Watch

A Celebration 5 Years in the Making A Breast Cancer Survivor’s Story FIVE YEARS. To some it may seem to fly by, to others it may go slowly.

It could be a period of significant change or not much change at all.

For cancer patients, it is a milestone. This is the point when they are considered cancer-free. It is a cause for celebration for survivors, and that is exactly what the colleagues of Cyndi Weiveris, RN had in mind. As a registered nurse at AtlantiCare Surgery Center, Cyndi was coming up on that important anniversary. It would be five years since her breast cancer surgery at the age of 56.

She shared her excitement with her co-workers, which inspired them to help Cyndi mark this important date. Led by Laura Applegate, RN, administrator at the center, the team surprised Cyndi with flowers, food, and a pink-themed party this past winter. The staff, dressed in their hot pink scrubs and breast cancer awareness surgical caps, turned the surgery center into a pink celebration room.

Cyndi’s husband, patients, and their families were also invited. “Every day, Cyndi shares her heart and her spirit with her patients, with all of us and with everyone,” says Laura, “She is an inspiration to all of us.”

“I was blown away, my husband was even in on it,” Cyndi says, “Five years — oh my God, it was like a weight was lifted off me. I made it, I got through. The best part was when I did not have to take the cancer meds anymore.” She said her oncologist told her ‘cancer does not define you anymore, so go enjoy your life.’

For Cyndi, that is what she planned to do. It had been a long road. Her late husband had a stroke, and she took care of him for 13 years. Busy with his needs, she put off focusing on her own health.

After losing her husband several years ago, Cyndi went on Facebook.

It is there that she reunited with her current husband, Jim Weiveris.

“Jim was the first person to whom I sent a friend request. We met while I was working at Dunkin Donuts, when I was 16 and he was 18,” Cyndi recalls, “We never dated. I got married and didn’t see him for 25 years. After two-and-a-half months … he proposed on Valentine’s Day, 2011.”

Because Jim had gone through the loss of his wife to cancer, he encouraged Cyndi to take better care of her health and schedule screenings and doctor visits. Cyndi remembers him saying, ‘You need 18

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to take care of yourself, I want you around for a while.’ Cyndi made several screening appointments, including a routine mammogram, which she had at Atlantic Medical Imaging. “By the grace of God, Dr. Anjeanette Brown happened to be there that day,” says Cyndi.

Anjeanette Brown, MD, is a breast surgeon at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center. Upon reviewing Cyndi’s mammogram results, Dr. Brown recommended a fine needle aspiration of Cyndi’s breasts.

While that biopsy did not show any cancer, she decided to do a core needle biopsy.

Cyndi recalls that Dr. Brown called her personally with the results.

“She said it was cancer. I handed the phone to Jim and said, ‘I can’t talk.’ As a nurse, you deal with this all the time, but when you get the call that ‘we found breast cancer’ I froze. I thought, did this really just happen to me?” Then her thoughts turned to her husband. “When Jim and I reconnected, he was grieving the loss of his wife, who had died of cancer, now I had cancer too.” They relied on their faith and talked and prayed. They had decided, “You can’t change it, so let’s get a plan and move forward.”

She was advised to get a lumpectomy, but after working with other patients who have had breast cancer, Cyndi really pushed for a double mastectomy because, “My breasts do not define me.”

She did not want to worry about getting checked for cancer every six months and just wanted to have peace of mind. Cyndi and Jim consulted with Adam Saad, MD, plastic surgeon at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center. They decided Cyndi would have breast reconstruction with TRAM flap surgery, rather than implants, using tissue from Cyndi’s abdomen to create new breast mounds. Saad, Matthew Kauffman, MD and Brown worked together during the procedure. After the surgery, Cyndi had 3d tattoos to create the areola of her breast. She was very happy with the results.

It turned out that the mastectomy was one of the best decisions Cyndi ever made, since she learned after the procedure that the cancer had been in both breasts. “I’m so glad Dr. Brown cared about what I wanted. She gave me information and options and was truly a partner in my care.”

At the time, Cyndi was in her last semester at Stockton University.

By ROBIN STOLOFF

After a double mastectomy and one night in the hospital, she only missed one class. Her husband drove her to school with her drains still in, and a friend helped her carry her books to class. She was determined to graduate, and received her Bachelor of Science degree with Program Distinction in May of 2013. She says, “The worst part of the five years was the medication…it hit me like a ton of bricks. I lost my hair, I couldn’t sleep, I gained weight, I was cranky, I had no stamina.”

During this challenging time, Cyndi also worked in the emergency room. For most people, this would have been too much to handle. However, she says, “After caring for my first husband for 13 years, you get a mindset where you put one foot in front of the other, and as a nurse you just do. Not once did I say ‘woe is me, look at me.’ Quite frankly I was so grateful they found it early. I knew this was a possibility, because I never had children and when you don’t have kids, you run the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, because your hormones don’t change.”

Cyndi considers herself one of the lucky ones, since they caught her cancer early enough to treat it.

She was thankful for the support of friends, family and, of course, her husband Jim. She also had the help of AtlantiCare’s Breast Health Coordinator who stayed with her every step of the way. “She would explain it to you straight out and tell you what you will feel and what to expect.” Cyndi also notes that doctors are often focused on saving your life, and may not always explain every detail. “It is amazing what doctors don’t tell you. They just assume you’ll know and do your due diligence.”

Cyndi attends group support meetings at Gilda’s Club at AtlantiCare’s Cancer Center and shares her story to help others, “I have come across people who are just starting their journey with breast cancer, who are worried about losing their breasts. I will show women my breast surgery and 3d tattoo. You would never know I had breast surgery. There have been several women who have come up to me and thanked me for showing them how to get to the other side.”

Top photo: Cyndi Weiveris is surrounded by pink.

Bottom photo: Led by Laura Applegate, RN, administrator at the center, the team surprised Cyndi with flowers, food and a pink-themed party. njlifestyleonline.com

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H E A LT H W AT C H She stresses the importance of sharing common experiences, “You have people around you going through the same thing. These people can relate, they can share ideas, little tricks, how to get through what you are going through. Many people don’t go because they don’t feel they need it, but we all do.”

Cyndi also points out that cancer can put a strain on your relationship, “When going through any kind of serious illness, it either breaks your marriage or makes you stronger. If you have a spouse that is not that supportive, you need someone who can hold your hand and say they understand.”

Laura, who lost her sister to cancer in 2013, also attends support meetings at Gilda’s, “You are really one entire family. No matter what type of cancer you have, the end result is the same, and the feelings are mostly the same. Once you are there, the guards come down and everyone is dealing with either the death of a loved one or cancer themselves.” As she helps herself heal, she also helps others, “We have the advantage, as healthcare providers, to be our own advocates.

We often have more resources for ourselves and for our patients and friends and family.”

Laura says she automatically clicked with Cyndi when she met her, “I tend to gravitate toward people with big hearts and selfless personalities and I just loved Cyndi from the beginning … Cyndi is

always about everyone else. Cyndi focuses on how it changed her life with other breast cancer patients and survivors, but I think when you become the story, it changes your life as a nurse, and as a person, because you don’t always know. Everybody’s devastation is their own and it's different … You really do approach life differently.”

Laura and Cyndi have started a healthy eating plan together and remain close friends. Cyndi’s upbeat outlook continues today, “Everyday is a gift. People say, ‘how are you doing today?’ and I say ‘awesome!’ You have no idea.

Tomorrow is never promised to you.”

She continues to rejoice in her five-year survival mark and looks forward to many more years to come. Her advice to other women; “Go get a mammogram; it will save your life.” Words of wisdom from someone who has overcome the emotional and physical challenges of breast cancer, and who inspires all of us to take care of ourselves as well as others. n

She continues to rejoice in her five-year survival mark and looks forward to many more years to come. Her advice to other women; “Go get a mammogram; it will save your life.”

Robin Stoloff has been a health reporter in South Jersey since 1986. She hosts and produces Living Well with Robin Stoloff on Lite Rock 96.9 WFPG in Atlantic City Sundays from 9-11 AM. She also hosts TV health features on SNJ Today news on WACP in the Atlantic City and Philadelphia area every Tuesday at 7 PM and 11 PM. Check out Robin’s video segments and health tips on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook at Health Update with Robin Stoloff.

Specializing in General Dermatology, Skin Cancer Screening, Botox and Cosmetic Dermatology Lisa Ledden, N.P.

Call us today at 609-940-3100 Visit us at our new location 599 Shore Road, Suite 202 Somers Point, NJ 08244

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

MINDING YOUR BUSINESS: HANKIN SANDMAN PALLADINO & WEINTROB With employment-related claims on the rise, the experienced litigators at this established firm warn against a vulnerability that business owners should address immediately.

LAST YEAR, CLAIMS of sexual harassment, along with discrimination, failure to accommodate disabilities, and violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act, resulted in 167,731 charges against employers with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. This number includes only claims at the federal level, not discrimination charges brought under state law or before many state agencies. In fact, sixty percent of mid-sized employers faced an employment-related claim during the past five years. In the wake of recent sexual harassment scandals in Hollywood, Washington, and corporations throughout the country, it is no surprise that employmentrelated claims are on the rise.

“The average cost of defending against an employment discrimination claim is approximately $125,000, and the cases generally take more than two years to resolve,” said Colin Bell, Esquire, an attorney with Atlantic City-based law firm Hankin Sandman Palladino & Weintrob. The increasing number of employment-related claims, coupled with the cost of resolving them, requires businesses to work actively toward preventing claims and defending against them when they do arise. Bell recommends that businesses take the following steps as soon as possible: Develop a formal written policy. While it may be tempting to trust employees to behave appropriately and hope an employment claim never arises, the absence of formal written anti-discrimination policies can be used against a business owner in an employment-related lawsuit. On the other hand, a formal written policy against discrimination is an affirmative defense that can be used to shield a business from liability in some instances, even if one of the employees does engage in inappropriate behavior. Having a company handbook that spells out the policies and procedures used to prevent, investigate, and resolve alleged acts of discrimination and other improper workplace conduct can stop an employment-related claim before it even starts. “It’s important to consult with an attorney on written policies that could have legal ramifications,” explained Bell. “An attorney experienced in employment law can help create or update an employee handbook that meets the needs of the workplace and helps protect a business owner from employment-related claims in the future.

Obtain Employment Practices Liability Insurance. “Business insurance, general liability insurance, and workers compensation insurance do not provide protection against employment-related claims,” Bell explained, “while an Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) policy is specifically designed to provide protection against allegations of discrimination, sexual harassment, wrongful termination and other employment related claims.” When such a claim is filed, the EPLI policy will provide both for the legal fees expended in defending against the claims and the payment of any settlement or verdict. As with most insurance, there are various deductibles, policy limits, and premium levels available. “Business owners should contact an insurance broker to determine the appropriate type of EPLI coverage and the premium cost. “While the coverage will be 22

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an additional expense, we believe it can be an investment in the long term financial protection of a business,” said Bell.

Choose the Appropriate Counsel. By default, most EPLI policies allow the insurer to assign whatever counsel the insurer chooses to defend a policyholder in an employment-related claim. However, when obtaining or renewing a policy, business owners can ask the broker to obtain an accommodation from the insurance carrier naming the counsel of their choice in the policy for the purposes of defending against any employmentrelated claim.

This is important for several reasons. First, most EPLI policies have “shrinking limits” provisions, which means that every dollar spent on legal fees defending a company shrinks the total policy limit available to pay any settlement or verdict. A law firm assigned by the insurance carrier may not have the same incentive to contain costs as a trusted local firm who has an existing relationship with the business. Additionally, a covered employmentrelated claim, such as sexual harassment, is often accompanied by a claim asserting unpaid wages or violations of prevailing wage laws. These claims are usually not covered by EPLI insurance, and a law firm assigned by the insurance carrier will not defend them. Since the business may pay out-ofpocket to defend against those claims, it is more efficient to hire one firm for the entire matter. Moreover, a law firm assigned by the insurance carrier cannot assist a business owner if there is a dispute with the carrier over insurance coverage, as it would be a conflict of interest. Finally, and most importantly, a local attorney who is familiar with a particular business will have knowledge regarding the company’s operations and history. Working with a familiar firm reduces the learning curve as the case progresses.

With offices in Atlantic City and Cape May Court House, Hankin Sandman Palladino & Weintrob has the requisite experience in employment litigation to qualify as approved counsel for most carriers. “We’ve represented business owners in this capacity on numerous occasions, and we can supply any information requested by the carrier to facilitate the process of counsel assignment,” said Bell.

In addition to employment law, the attorneys of Hankin Sandman Palladino & Weintrob are well versed in practice areas such as Land Use, Environmental Law, Personal Injury, Construction Law, Commercial Litigation, Appellate Practice, Family Law, Real Estate, Municipal Law, and Criminal Law. Founded by Stephen Hankin in 1971, the firm has handled some of the region’s most complex and significant cases.

“Hopefully, most businesses will never face an employment-related claim, and they have already taken the steps to safeguard against these actions,” said Bell. “However, if they do find it necessary to defend themselves, they will be in a much better position if they are protected by an EPLI policy that allows them to be represented by counsel of their own choosing. If they designate Hankin Sandman Palladino & Weintrob, they can rest assured that they have access to attorneys with the knowledge and experience to help them through the process as painlessly as possible.” n

LifeStyle MoneyWatch

Decoding New Tax Law N.J. Governor Signs SALT Deduction Workaround into Law

NEW JERSEY GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY signed into law May 4th, 2018 the State and Local Tax Deduction bill that would allow New Jersey municipalities to create charitable funds through which N.J. taxpayers can donate in exchange for a tax credit of up to 90% of their donation to reduce their property tax bill. Generally, the charitable deduction would then be fully deductible on the federal income tax return. The legislation will go into effect in July 2018.

Background One of the largest revenue generators in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was the limitation of the state and local tax deduction (referred to as “SALT” deduction) to $10,000 on the federal income tax return. Previously, there was no limitation on this deduction (although many high income earners did not get the full benefit of their SALT deduction because of the Alternative Minimum Tax or “AMT”).

The SALT deduction includes property taxes, state sales and income taxes and municipal income taxes. The average SALT deduction in the State of N.J. was around $18,000 in 2016.

This change, combined with the reduction in mortgage interest deduction and some other changes to itemized deductions, will pay for about $1.3 trillion of the tax cuts passed. The impact of the SALT deduction will be felt the most in the highest tax states such as New York, California, New Jersey and a few others, most of which are predominantly Democratic majority states. All three of these states and a few others are planning workarounds to the federal SALT deduction limitation.

Will the Workaround Actually Work?

Just because N.J. passed a law that could potentially enable some or all of a person’s real estate taxes to be considered a charitable contribution does not necessarily mean the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will accept it. The arguments against this workaround

stem from the IRS requirement that in order for a charitable contribution to be deductible there has to be charitable intent and the donor must receive nothing in return or, if they do receive something in return, must deduct the value of what they receive in return from their contribution.

In addition, if you make a contribution that imposes a liability on the recipient (like say trash pickup or police services) then the liability disallows the contribution. The arguments in favor of this workaround point to prior systems that have been around since 2014 in certain states that allowed citizens to donate to a state general fund to support students’ higher education and receive a tax deduction on their federal return. The difference, though, between those programs and the ones being proposed and implemented now, is that these contributions were not in lieu of local property taxes.

What to Do? Unfortunately, the best advice for now is to probably do nothing.

Many lawyers and tax accountants are advising their clients to take a “wait and see” approach. There is just too much uncertainty surrounding the whole workaround to give sound advice at this juncture. Stay tuned. n

Tom Reynolds, CPA & Matt Reynolds CPA, CFP® Francis C. Thomas, CPA, PFS Robert T. Martin, CFA, CFP® Gordon Shearer Jr., CFP® Jeff Hilliard, CFP®, CRPC 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.

njlifestyleonline.com

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Up, Up and Away with the Arts!

The Schultz-Hill Foundation

By Felicia L. Niven IF THERE’S A WORD THAT DEFINES THE SCHULTZ-HILL Foundation, it’s life-changing. Just spend a few minutes at one of the Foundation’s events and you’ll understand what I mean. You’ll see it in the excitement of a young person hearing the crescendo of a classical composition for the first time, and in the glistening eyes of a senior who hums along wistfully to a beloved tune. It’s in the grateful smile of a student now able to pursue her dream career in the arts, or an arts organization receiving much-needed funding to stay afloat. Bringing the arts alive and enriching the lives of South Jersey residents is no small task, and cofounders Gary Hill and John Schultz do it with passion, skill, and plenty of toe-tapping fun.

The Schultz-Hill Foundation was founded 16 years ago with the intent to give back to the community via enrichment through the arts. The announcement of the Foundation, in a Press of Atlantic City article, was read by friend and singer/pianist Michael Feinstein. “Michael called us up to say that the next time he’s in town, he’d like to help,” recalled Gary.

“Because of his connections, Michael convinced Broadway star Linda Eder to perform with him, and that was our first benefit concert, held at the Hilton.”

Since then, the Schultz-Hill Foundation has organized one benefit performance annually, the proceeds of which support the remainder of their year-long arts outreach programs for students, seniors and the community. Past benefit performers have included Marc Antonelli, Lucie Arnaz, Eddie Bruce, Julie Budd, Clint Holmes, Chris Macchio, Deana Martin, and Tami Pescatelli. The Foundation has been fortunate enough to have been at Caesars, The Claridge and Resorts with these great entertainers.

Arts Programs for Seniors, Students & the Community With the proceeds from the annual benefit, the Schultz-Hill Foundation is able to bring a variety of arts programming to South Jersey. This includes the Music & Memories Series Senior Outreach program, where seniors enjoy free concerts from ‘big band’ to swing music to jazz at venues such as the Milton & Betty Katz Jewish Community Center and Seashore Gardens Living Center. The Community Student Outreach Program offers musical education, such as concert performances by the Bay Atlantic Symphony.

This year, the Schultz-Hill Foundation expanded its outreach in support of Public Art. In cooperation with the Atlantic City ART Foundation, the Foundation commissioned renowned local artist Edwin Rivera to paint the plain looking parking bollards at the Atlantic City Library.

In addition, its Arts Outreach Program supports local arts organizations such as the Atlantic City Ballet, and the DINA Award provides scholarships to students, educators and organizations. To date, Schultz-Hill has awarded over $125,000 in student scholarships and art/historical grants. The Foundation is a 501c3, and all donations are tax deductible.

“We’re able to give back because of the incredible support that we receive,” notes John, who sums up the effort in one succinct, heartfelt quote. “With the Arts, we have expression; with history we have knowledge.

Together, we have our future.”

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Presenting the 5th DIMENSION Featuring Florence LaRue Superstar Theater at Resorts Casino Hotel, Friday, August 24, 2018, 8:30 PM For its benefit concert this year, the Schultz-Hill Foundation welcomes seven-time Grammy Award winning sensation THE 5th DIMENSON featuring Florence LaRue. This high energy benefit concert will feature some of their greatest hits, including Age of Aquarius/Let the Sun Shine In, Up, Up & Away, One Less Bell to Answer, Stoned Soul Picnic, and many more. THE 5TH DIMENSION is in the Grammy Hall of Fame, Vocal Group Hall of Fame, has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has endeared millions of fans to its champagne soul sound.

As an original member and vocalist for the group, Florence LaRue rose to fame from humble beginnings in Glenside, Pa., to become a super star.

Proving to be a woman with much more dimension, Florence LaRue’s personal journey includes her experience as the only African American girl in an all-white school. She credits her grounded beliefs and staunch confidence as protagonists to her amazing personal history. When THE 5TH DIMENSION catapulted to fame during the racially charged 1960s, many African American audiences rejected the group for being ‘too white.’

Florence LaRue’s faith endured. The audience will be uplifted and inspired by love, warmth, and the extraordinary talent of this dynamic woman, as she shares her story during this landmark performance. Florence LaRue transports audiences into her world of dreams, hopes, heartbreak, and joyful spirit.

Resorts Casino Hotel is a presenting sponsor of the event. Limited $175-per-person VIP tickets include preferred seating and a tax-deductible post-show “meet and greet” champagne/dessert party, and may be purchased online at www.schultz-hill.org. General admission seating tickets are $30; preferred seating tickets are $55. Both are available through Ticketmaster or at Resorts box office. n

Gary Hill (left), co-founder, greets students from the Pennsylvania Ave. School who visited Dante Hall for Vivaldi Four Seasons Music Education Concert by Bay Atlantic Symphony

LifeStyle Travel By DAN SCHLOSSBERG

Ecstatic Electric City

A steam locomotive pulling out of the yard Photo courtesy of Steamtown NHS

Travel to Scranton, PA and joyously relive the Industrial Revolution

W

hen the Erie Lackawanna removed the railroad tracks that ran through downtown Passaic, N.J. I cried.

As a 15-year-old who was the proud owner of a basement Lionel set, I loved trains, trolleys, and anything that ran on rails. At age 70, I still do. That’s why I loved visiting Lackawanna County, which not only thrives on its railroad legacy but sends a siren call to train lovers who remember the gilded age of steam trains and trolley cars.

Scranton, the county seat, is the home of Steamtown, the only national park with moving parts; the adjacent Electric City Trolley Museum; a mine train that plunges visitors 300 feet below the surface for a tour of a once-working coal mine; and even a fancy hotel that found new life after its original role as a classic railroad station disappeared into the dustbin of history.

Dubbed “the Electric City” because America’s first streetcar rolled into service in 1866, the entire place has become a living 26

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monument to the Industrial Revolution. Most of the tracks, towers, tunnels, mine shafts, and blast furnaces are now footnotes that remind visitors of Scranton’s past significance.

Even John Oliver, the British satirist who hosts the weekly HBO series Last Week Tonight, has become a fan of Scranton. After maligning the town for its multiple mine shafts and industrial history, he answered complaints from city fathers by building a small mountain loaded with local landmarks, including trains, tunnels, and the enormous Electric City sign that shines over downtown after dark.

After unveiling his creation on his show, the comic donated it to the trolley museum.

The recipients made only one addition: a photo of Oliver’s open mouth pasted on the entrance to a railroad tunnel. The model train literally now runs into the mouth that ran too often.

Before the bombastic Oliver burst onto American TV screens, Scranton was bestknown as the site of a hit NBC show called

The Office. Often called “the Anthracite Capital of the World,” it has 130 special events, eight distinct neighborhoods, and one still-popular “Office Tour” that covers many local highlights.

None is bigger than Steamtown, which sits on a 62-acre tract of tracks and structures once used by the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad, one of the nation’s first lines. A private collection that moved from Vermont to Scranton in 1984, it became a National Historic Site two years later after a $66 million Congressional allocation. Its impressive collection includes a visitors center, history museum, 90-foot turntable, and rotund roundhouse, complete with sections dating back to 1902.

Hulking black locomotives of all sizes and descriptions are berthed in the roundhouse, with one or two parked outside to please photo buffs — some of whom have never seen an actual steam engine. Watching an 18-minute orientation film called “Steel and Steam” is the best way to start a Steamtown

Lackawanna State Park Photo courtesy of visitnepa.org

tour, which could take hours if the myriad of displays are devoured and digested.

In addition to visiting the housed engines, visitors can ride one, especially during the warm-weather months. Plus there are exhibits on everything from railroad signals to train wrecks. The adjacent but smaller trolley museum also offers a plethora of photo ops, plus a film and a chance to take an hourlong, 10-mile ride on an actual streetcar. Both museums charge entrance fees.

For train buffs, Scranton remains a magical city, not only because Steamtown is a bastion of history, but because Houdini lived there when he found fame with his magic act. In addition to the handcuffs and straightjackets he actually wore, posters, props, and photos of the celebrated magician are worth a look, along with a collection of Houdini films. But the highlight of any visit is the live magic show offered by working magicians Dorothy Dietrich and Dick Bravo, Houdini historians dedicated to preserving and promoting his work. Call ahead to schedule an appointment, since the stars often take their shows on the road.

Today, the cabaret-style Houdini Museum is well worth the ride off the beaten path — a statement that fits the coal museum too.

Called the Anthracite Heritage Museum, it’s actually much better than the name implies.

Exhibits depict the immigrants who came to the Pennsylvania coal mines for work without abandoning their cultural traditions. Displays explain the daily lives of the new arrivals.

Located on Bald Mountain Road in McDade Park, the handsome museum features a film, artifacts, and exhibits showing everything from a loaded coal car to old-time cruise posters that portrayed America as the land of opportunity. Waves of immigrants saved pennies to pursue that dream, with

Steamtown National Historic Site Photo courtesy of Steamtown NHS

many settling in Lackawanna County.

Out-of-towners who aren’t claustrophobic can board a yellow mine train that descends to the depths of a once-thriving mine. The Lackawanna County Coal Mine Tour, a stone’s throw from the anthracite museum, is the opposite of a theme park thrill ride. The mine train moves at a snail’s pace, allowing riders to adjust to fading daylight and falling temperatures. Even on a hot summer’s day, the mercury never tops the low 50s in the mine.

Though working in a coal mine was dirty and difficult, it was also rewarding; because the clean-anthracite found there burned more cleanly than coal mined elsewhere, the region once provided 80 percent of the nation’s fuel needs — igniting the economy by fueling trains and iron furnaces.

With a current population of 76,000, Scranton seems like a small town but an unusual one, with homes and other structures built on top of mine shafts that would stretch more than 100 miles if placed endto-end. Though homeowners sometimes find sinkholes in their backyards, most love the local lifestyle.

That’s especially true in summer, when open-air concerts are performed at The Pavilion at Montage Mountain and streetcars link the trolley museum with PNC Park, home of Yankees stars Aaron Judge and Gleyber Torres before they reached the big leagues.

The Triple-A team that plays there is called the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Railriders.

Recreational pursuits range from whitewater rafting to walking, hiking, and biking on 70 miles of urban and rural trails.

Kayaks crowd the Lackawanna River, where boaters are serenaded by bands and serviced by food vendors. There’s even mountain ziplining for courageous souls.

Out-of-towners can find many locals

at Lackawanna State Park by day and the Scranton Cultural Center by night. For a city of its size, Scranton has a long list of ethnic restaurants and vibrant nightlife venues.

There’s no better way to finish a day at Steamtown than sampling the gourmet fare and railroad atmosphere at Trax Bar & Grill in the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel.

Also on the must-see list are the Archbald pothole, reputed to be 38 feet deep and 15,000 years old; the Electric City sign atop the Electric Building on Linden Street; and the curvaceous Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, which stretches into the Poconos and Susquehanna County. Signs explain spots of significance.

To catch more bang for their buck, visitors should stay in nearby Dickson City. Just 20 minutes from Steamtown, the new Hilton 2Suites has an indoor pool, free breakfast, and quiet, spacious guest rooms on a highway dotted with malls, diners, and restaurants that range from Wegman’s to The Olive Garden.

Getting there is a breeze too; Scranton sits off I-80 and I-380, two hours west of most points in New Jersey. And yes, it is possible to get there by train.

For further information, contact Steamtown National Historic Site, 150 S. Washington Ave., Scranton, PA 18503-2018 (www.nps.gov/stea, Tel. 888-693-9391) or Lackawanna County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 99 Glenmaura National Blvd., Moosic, PA 18507 (www. visitnepa.org, 800-229-3526). n New Jersey Lifestyle travel editor Dan Schlossberg, a lifelong resident of The Garden State, grew up in Passaic but lives in Fair Lawn. The former AP newsman is the author of 38 baseball books, including The New Baseball Bible and When the Braves Ruled the Diamond. njlifestyleonline.com

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On Wheels

By ELAINE ROSE

Pony Power FLEX YOUR MUSCLES WITH THE BICEP-BEARING ALFA ROMEO GUILIA AND DODGE CHALLENGER

2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti

YOU SPENT ALL WINTER AND SPRING in the gym, pumping those dumbbells and sweating on the treadmill or elliptical trainer. Now it’s summer, and the time has come to put on your tank top and flex those muscles.

The same can be said for your car. Summer is the time to hit the open road and let your vehicle show off its pony power.

If you’re the kind of person who considers a car as nothing more than transportation from Point A to Point B, this isn’t for you. But if you want to show off those big biceps on the freeway as well as at the gym, you might want to make the Dodge Challenger or the Alfa Romeo Guilia your next set of wheels.

For nearly half a century, Dodge has been selling the Challenger as pure American muscle — even if it is now assembled in Brampton, Ont. This five-seater coupe comes in fifteen trim lines, from the base SXT starting at $27,295 to the brand-new SRT Demon, with an MSRP of $84,495. The engine power, amenities, and price increase as you go up the line.

The Demon boasts 808 horsepower and is getting a lot of attention in the automotive press. But it is made primarily for the drag strip, so it is highly impractical for anyone who doesn’t spend their weekends at the racetracks in Wall Township or New Egypt. So we’ll leave that one alone. Besides, all the Demons manufactured for 2018 have already been sold.

The base model comes with a 305-HP 3.6L Pentastar six-cylinder engine, which is plenty to attract attention while you’re cruising the Atlantic City Expressway. It gets an EPA-estimated 18 miles per gallon in town and 27 mpg on the highway. Eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, and optional on the V8s higher up the food chain. All except the GT trim, fourth from the bottom, are rear-wheel drive.

No doubt about it, this car is huge. It is nearly 17 feet long, which can cause some parallel-parking hassles in the city. All but the base model weigh more than two tons, but reviewers say it handles well for its size. The rear seats can hold three adults comfortably if they’re under 6 feet tall. One advantage is the generous cargo space for a sports car. The trunk holds 16.2 cubic feet of living essentials, and the rear seats can fold for even more capacity.

If last winter’s weather is any indication of things to come, the all-wheel-drive Challenger GT, starting at

2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT 392 interior

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ON WHEELS $33,995, is the best choice in our area — unless you like keeping a spare set of snow tires in the garage. It is the only muscle car on the market with all-wheel drive, which makes it a good compromise between power and practicality. And it comes with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and other creature comforts you’ll appreciate come January.

“I was dreading the thought of getting in the car and driving even a mile down the road,” with six inches of fresh snow on the ground and inadequately cleared roads, wrote Autoblog’s Christopher McGraw, who lives in Michigan. “Thirty minutes later, though, I was having a blast in the Challenger GT, getting it sideways and around corners, yet in complete control.”

His colleague, Joel Stocksdale agreed.

“The Dodge Challenger GT has style, space, and a decent balance of sportiness and comfort,” Stocksdale wrote. “The V6 actually works quite nicely in the big Dodge.

Under full throttle, you get an angry, throaty honk from the intake that, while not as smooth and classic as a V8, is still fairly satisfying. It also has more than adequate acceleration, if not exhilarating. It's a combo that makes not only a fun affordable GT car, but just a solid commuter with an extra dose of style.”

“The 2018 Dodge Challenger would look just as at home in 1971 as it does today, and that’s all right with us,” Andrew Ganz wrote for The Car Connection. It’s “undeniable swagger” is a big plus. The Challenger GT can be an all-season touring car, and it contains a lot of bells and whistles for the money, Ganz wrote.

Sam McEachern, writing for Autoblog. com, said the Challenger provides a comfortable and quiet ride, though the transmission can be a bit sluggish in the lower gears. And for a sports car, it has plenty of room.

“The Challenger’s size means front passenger room is as good as it’s going to get in this segment, and the back seats are roomy enough where your friends might choose to actually ride with you instead of calling an Uber,” McEachern wrote.

If you plan to put your offspring in the rear seat, be advised that the Challenger’s safety ratings are mixed. The car got a five-star rating from the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration, but some independent testers don’t agree. And it lacks

some of the latest technology that helps prevent crashes.

If European finesse is closer to your style, you may want to consider the Alfa Romeo Guilia. After a more than twentyyear absence from the American market, Alfa Romeo brought the Guilia to the United States in 2017. The Guilia, Alfa’s entry-level car, is the only model sold Stateside. But it is creating quite a stir, and is sure to attract attention as you take it on South Jersey roadways. The Guilia comes in three trim lines, the base starting with an MSRP of $38,195, the Ti starting at $40,195, and the Quadrifoglio starting at $73,700.

“A short stint behind the wheel is all it takes to fall in love and forgive its flaws,” Drew Dorian summed up his review in Car and Driver. “An athletic chassis, crooning turbocharged four-cylinder engine, available adaptive suspension, quick steering, and tenacious brakes make the Giulia a joy to drive — for novices and professional drivers alike,” Dorian wrote.

In fact, Car and Driver included the Giulia in its list of the Top Ten 2018 cars.

And Motor Trend named the Guilia as its 2018 car of the year, most notably for being fun to drive.

Dorian recommended going for the Ti trim line and adding the $1,500 performance package, which would make a $42,490 vehicle “un buon valore.” Springing a few extra bucks for the Ti provides an 8.8inch infotainment system — alas without a touchscreen — 18-inch alloy wheels, and the opportunity to have the seats done in Nappa leather.

And the power of this sporty gem is nothing to sneeze at. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes with 280 horsepower and 306 pound-feet of torque, rear-wheel drive, and eight-speed automatic transmission. It gets an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which is quite respectable for a sports car. Opt for the all-wheel drive, and mileage goes down a bit to 23 mpg city and 31 mpg on the highway. The top-of-theline Quadrifoglio ups that to a six-cylinder engine with 505 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque.

The Guilia is already being compared to its pricey Italian cousin.

“Hints of Ferrari DNA give the 2018 Alfa Romeo Guilia a decidedly sporting character, but it’s docile around town as well,” Andrew

Ganz wrote for The Car Connection.

Several reviewers noted that just like a Ferrari, the Guilia has its starting button embedded in the steering wheel. The Guilia is built for the driver, so passengers shouldn’t expect to ride in luxury, Ganz wrote. And forget about being able to carry much more luggage than is needed for a weekend getaway.

“Imagine that if in some alternate universe, Ferrari completely lost its minds and reached down-market to produce a direct BMW 3-Series competitor,” Chris Chin wrote for Digital Trends. “The Alfa Romeo Giulia would be it.”

Chin praised the Guilia for its sex appeal that adds spice to the luxury sedan market.

It comes with three driving modes, and most reviewers say to keep it in “dynamic.”

“I realized 15 minutes into my Napa (Calif.) drive that I had the car in ‘Natural,’ or Alfa’s term for normal mode, and yet I was still grinning like a dork,” Chin wrote.

Of course, no car is perfect and there are a few drawbacks.

A couple of reviewers noted that the stability control system cannot be turned off, which detracts from the excitement of driving the Guilia. While the front seats are quite comfortable, the rear seats are cumbersome to get into unless passengers are quite agile — even though it’s a fourdoor sedan — and adults will start to feel cramped after a ride of much longer than half an hour. Though others say that adults will be fine in the back seat unless they are of above-average height.

The big question mark is reliability. Alfa Romeo has a reputation for making cars that require numerous trips to the mechanic.

But some say their standards have greatly improved in recent years. Only time will tell, but being one of the first to buy the reintroduced Alfa will make you a guinea pig in this test.

Consumer Reports notes that the Guilia has been recalled for flaws in its hydraulic brake system, which could increase the risk of a crash. So if you choose to buy one, make sure the repair has been done on your car before you sign on the dotted line.

There you have it. Take either the Dodge Challenger or the Alfa Romeo Guilia out on the road this summer, and you’re sure to make other drivers turn their heads in your direction — at least with curiosity if not with downright envy. n

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LIFESTYLE | Spring 2018

31

LifeStyle Entertainment

Clockwise from left: Carrie Underwood, Frankie Valli and Collins-Stills

Nightlife Amplified COMPETITION HEATS UP AS NEW CASINOS SHAKE UP THE LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT SCENE War at the shore.

It’s likely you’ve heard that little promotional quip in the past, often in connection with some big championship sporting event, usually boxing.

But the war that’s been simmering since before summer is one we haven’t seen in a long time.

When word leaked out that the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City had raided Borgata’s stable of stars and escaped with 32

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one of its prized possessions, it could only mean one thing: there’s an old-fashioned entertainment war brewing between two casinos that have a lot of entertainment equity behind their respective brands.

To any appearance, the one that got away from Borgata wasn’t some hot young star with broad appeal to a younger demographic. Quite the contrary, it’s a singer who’s logged over 60 years in the businesses, had a string of hit singles with his original group first, then

later as a solo artist and — most importantly — has been in demand in gaming venues because he appeals to an older clientele that’s well into their retirement years and has a few discretionary dollars with which to test their luck in the casino.

Borgata’s loss and Hard Rock’s gain is 84-year-old Frankie Valli and the latest version of his early-‘60s ensemble, The Four Seasons.

Valli has spent years working exclusively at Borgata. He may have been one of that

By David J. Spatz

From left to right: Cher, Barry Manilow and Sebastian Maniscalco property’s oldest headliners, but he was also one of the few who could play two or three weekend shows in the 1,000-seat Music Box Theater and sell out every one.

“Score one for the new kid (Hard Rock),” quipped one agent who books artists into the casino showrooms. “(Valli) hasn’t had a hit song in 30 years. But he’s got a name and a reputation, and he appeals to the regional crowd, especially the (people) from North Jersey. He’s like the next Sinatra to some of those folks.”

Valli jumping ship wasn’t a complete surprise. The singer also has a relationship with Hard Rock and has been a regular at the company’s Hollywood, Fla. gaming resort for years.

Two months before it opened, Hard Rock came out swinging with a 60-show entertainment lineup it had already created for the 7,000-seat Hard Rock Live at the Etess Arena and the 1,500-seat venue previously known as the Xanadu but now renamed simply The Theater. More shows have been announced since then.

“During our first year, we intend to present 300 shows,” Hard Rock chairman, CEO and president Jim Allen, an Atlantic County native, said during a previous interview. Allen said the newest addition to the Hard Rock chain was committed to presenting entertainment not just on weekends, when most casinos roll out their stars, but on weekdays, too.

Hard Rock, one of the strongest brands in the global entertainment business, opened its doors June 28. The following night, it kicked off its summer entertainment program with

singer Carrie Underwood, following one night later by the Grammy Award-winning Pitbull.

But Borgata isn’t rolling over as the entertainment war with its cross-town neighbor unfolds. The Marina-district property is celebrating its fifteenth anniversary this summer — it opened July 2, 2003 — and has assembled one of its strongest summer lineups in its history.

It already hosted Ringo Starr and his AllStar Band for two shows at the end of May, and it gave the former Beatles drummer some hang time for his collection of art. Following Ringo into Borgata was another A-lister, comedian Dave Chappelle, who’s finally returning to stand-up after a long hiatus.

Other summer headliners at Borgata — now owned solely by MGM International, which has its own roster of stars — include Cher, Barry Manilow, Britney Spears, Jerry Seinfeld, Kings of Leon, Jeff Dunham and comedian Sebastian Maniscalco, who’s so hot that Borgata booked him for 10 shows in the Event Center, easily be the longest gig by one entertainer in the casino’s history.

Wisely, the owner of the new Ocean Resort Casino — formerly Revel — isn’t going to open a third front in the show-biz war. Even though he’s got perhaps the finest multipurpose venue in Atlantic City and quite possibly the entire East Coast, Ocean Resort Casino chairman Bruce Deifik said he’s content to see how the “war” plays itself out before he decides when — or even if — he wants to get involved. For now, he’ll offer some shows, but he wasn’t prepared to announce any names before the property opened.

One area in which the Ocean Resort will capture plenty of attention is the nightclub scene. Right up until the moment Revel closed in September 2014, the HQ was among the city’s hottest nightclubs.

The born-again hotel and casino has HQ2, and Ocean Resort will be looking to compete with some of the other clubs in town for some of the best deejays on the circuit. It scheduled DJs Diplo and Jermaine Dupri to spin on its opening weekend.

Meanwhile, if history is a barometer, when a couple of casinos get into a show-biz war, it often means the other properties will step up their games as well. A perfect example is Tropicana and its 2,200-seat showroom. The week before the Hard Rock and Ocean Resort casinos opened, the Trop presented a pair of music legends for one memorable show.

Having collaborated on an album last year, folk balladeer and songwriter Judy Collins, 79, has been touring with musical artisan Stephen Stills, 73, who — depending on which way the wind is blowing — may or may not be a member of Crosby, Stills & Nash (but that’s a whole separate column by itself).

Besides the casino showrooms, Atlantic City already has at least three major concerts booked for beach shows. Country singersongwriter Sam Hunt kicks off the sandy concert series July 1. He’ll be followed by pop singer and songwriter Demi Lovato on July 26.

Three nights later, the producers of the concert series will be aiming for a completely different audience demographic when it presents the electronic dance music (EDM) duo known as The Chainsmokers July 29. n njlifestyleonline.com

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LifeStyle Opinion

The Race Is On

By Harry Hurley Political Columnist

THE 2ND DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL RACE IS A TALE OF TWO CITIES: SMOOTH SAILING FOR VAN DREW AND A HOT MESS FOR REPUBLICANS

THE RACE TO REPLACE THE RETIRING UNITED STATES Congressman Frank LoBiondo, R-2 is currently a tale of two cities. The Democrat side is neat and tidy. The Republican Primary contest is a hot mess.

On the Democratic side, New Jersey State Senator Jeff Van Drew has had the political winds at his back. He has won every County Convention endorsement and earned the unconditional support of all County Chairman before the nominating process even began. As such, he's actually been able to fly under the radar screen, which is rare and always a good thing in electoral politics because it means that you are not taking any major political hits.

Van Drew has taken some minor collateral unfriendly fire.

There have been attempts to portray Van Drew as too conservative and that he's not really a Democrat. None of that nonsense is working. Van Drew has amassed a demonstrated record of accomplishment over the past 27 years in electoral public service.

For example, Van Drew has consistently won election to various offices in Cape May County that Democrats had not won since the time of Reconstruction in American history. The historical significance 34

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of Van Drew really can't be overstated.

Reconstruction in United States history is the time that immediately followed the Civil War (from 1865-1877). This was the critical time period when the wrongs of slavery were addressed and solved by Republicans.

Northern states went on to punish Democratic candidates for more than 100 years. The 11 states that seceded from the Union dealt with the issues of readmission.

It was a time of great pain and soul searching in America.

Some four million slaves had received their freedom. The process resulted in significant electoral consequences, and not just for the Southern states. This is why even in Cape May County, New Jersey, Van Drew was only the second Democrat to win County-wide elective office since Reconstruction.

This is truly amazing when you think about it in today's modern terms. It only continues to fuel The Van Drew legend.

Van Drew has successfully navigated each elective office he sought after; at local, county and state levels. Now, he is seeking his first attempt at federal elective office.

Van Drew has never lost an election.

He has won: Dennis Township Committee, ultimately becoming Mayor; Cape

May County Freeholder; New Jersey Assemblyman, and New Jersey State Senator. Things couldn't be going much better for Van Drew if he had absolute control of the entire electoral political book in his hands.

On the Republican side, it's been just the opposite. Hirsh Singh is the frontrunner, but, the overall process has been One Flew Over The Cuckoo Nest crazy.

Singh has earned four of the eight County endorsements. He's earned the standing of Republican front-runner.

However, the Republican Primary contest has been bizarre. Brian Fitzherbert was basically cheated in Cumberland County, where he couldn't even be considered for nomination because he failed to receive a nomination by anyone present in the room. This occurred despite the fact that Fitzherbert had thought he had secured four people who would both nominate and second his nomination.

All four people sat on their hands. In the end, no one nominated Fitzherbert and Cumberland County Republican Chairman Michael Testa removed Fitzherbert from their ballot. It was disgraceful. By comparison, Testa personally nominated United States Senate candidate Bob Hugin.

Testa could have and should have done the same for Fitzherbert.

Neighboring Ocean County Republican Party Chairman George Gilmore, a very honorable and decent man, made sure that each and every Republican candidate had someone in place to nominate them at their selection convention.

Even if a candidate didn't have someone to nominate them, Gilmore made certain that all candidates were eligible for consideration. What a difference.

Fitzherbert's bad luck continued, when his overall nominating petition was officially challenged in court. Upon inspection, it was determined that he only had 193 valid voter signatures. In New Jersey Congressional District 2, each candidate was required to submit a minimum of 200. Fitzherbert is off the Primary Election ballot and he's presently appealing the decision.

The Cumberland County political hijinks and dirty tricks has continued. Just ask Robert Turkavage, former FBI Supervisory Agent (retired). Turkavage won the Cumberland County Republican Convention fair and square.

He should have been placed in Column A on the June 5, 2018 Primary ballot. Instead, he's presently located in Column F. How did this happen? It was Testa, again. Turkavage didn't know that there was certain paperwork that had to be submitted to the Cumberland County Clerk in order to properly bracket and secure his place in the regular Republican column A on the ballot.

It was a rookie mistake. Turkavage simply didn't know about this requirement. He had reasonably expected that after he won the Cumberland County Convention that Testa would take care of all required paperwork.

Instead, Testa purposefully allowed the deadline to pass. At the present time, there is no Regular Republican candidate in Column A for United States House of Representatives in District 2 on the Cumberland County Primary Election ballot. This is a public disgrace. Testa should be ashamed of himself for allowing this to happen. Turkavage is formally appealing to try and regain his Column A placement.

As you can see, I wasn't kidding. It's been a tale of two cities. Despite the fact that this seat has been in Republican LoBiondo's hands for the past 24 years, it's been smooth sailing for Van Drew, and, a very bumpy ride for the Republicans to date. n njlifestyleonline.com

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The Social Scene

AtlantiCare Foundation Holds 59th Annual Century Club Gala More than 700 people attended the AtlantiCare Foundation’s 59th Annual Century Club Gala at the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa in Atlantic City in April. The theme of the event was Under the Sea. A

AtlantiCare Gala 2018 co-chairs Brian Acunto, D.O. and his wife Breana

Left, Brian Acunto, D.O. and his wife Breana, Right, Lou and Inez Barberio, Gala co-chairs

From left to right, Lori Herndon, Eugene Arnone and Michael Charlton

Lou and Inez Barberio

Guests enjoying the 59th Annual Century Club Gala at the Borgata 36

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highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Edward R. Knight Award to Eugene Arnone, immediate past chairman, AtlantiCare Health Services Board; and to Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ) and Tina Ercole LoBiondo.

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Don and Michelle Purdy

L to R, David Feinberg, MD, Lori Herndon, Eugene Arnone, Tina Ercole LoBiondo, Frank LoBiondo, Michael Charlton and Pat Agnellini

Dr. James Eakins and Rachael Galego, BSN, RN

Dr. Haitham Dib, Susan Battaglia, RN and Donna Howell, RN

The Social Scene

Seashore Gardens 5K Run & Health Walk Raises $15,000 Superheroes of all ages participated April 29 in the eighth annual Seashore Gardens 5K Run and Health Walk on the Boardwalk. The event raised more than $15,000

for Seashore Gardens Living Center’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia Outreach, including monthly support group meetings and case management services.

Submitted

Race Chairs Michael and Cindy Weinraub pose with their neighborhood team, North Beach Ventnor

Team “If Betty Can I Can” is all smiles before the race 95.1 WAYV’s Diane Mitchell congratulates the Women’s Overall Winner Alexa Weber

Team Nan Fallon, named for a past resident of SGLC’s Comfort Care neighborhood, earned top Fundraising Team honors

Harry Halper, 13, raised money in honor of his Bar Mitzvah Janice T. Cambron along with his team, the Harrbears crosses the finish line

(L-R): Michael Weinraub, Esq.; Male Overall Winner Anthony Guiliano and Martin H. Klein

Molly Pugliese kicks off the event singing the National Anthem

Team Mary Malloy, named for a past resident of SGLC’s Comfort Care neighborhood, received special recognition at the event for the largest team njlifestyleonline.com

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The Social Scene

MBCA Luncheon Awards $25,000 in Scholarships and Grants The Metropolitan Business & Citizens Association (MBCA) hosted its 16th Annual Spring Scholarship Foundation Business Awards Luncheon on April 12th at Resorts Casino with over 600 guests. The MBCA Education Foundation presented over $25,000 in student scholarships and grants to students planning to continue their studies at an accredited higher education institution. This year’s keynote speaker and MBCA's Outstanding

Educator Award recipient was Miss America 2018 Miss Cara Mund.

The luncheon was proudly sponsored by Atlantic Cape Community College, Bank of America/ Merrill Lynch and Scott Brown Insurance, and was co-chaired by Alexander Marino, Executive Director of Carnegie Library and Richard Santoro, CRDA/SID. A list of 2018 scholarship recipients can be found at www.mbcanj.com.

Photos by Nicholas & Partners

From left to right, Pleasantville Mayor Jessie Tweedle, Atlantic City Mayor Gilliam, Lloyd Levenson Esq., Ken Calemmo and CCC Chair Jim Plousis

The FORZA Insurance Group with Miss America Cara Mund sponsored the Johnny D’Angelo ARTS Scholarship to Connor Bell

Hard Rock Casino supported the event with new board member Joey Jingoli (3rd from right)

MBCA 2018 Education Award recipient Miss America Cara Mund and Co-Chair Alex Marino, Stockton University

Kennedys Welcome 5th Child at AtlantiCare Former U.S. Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy and his wife, Amy, introduced the newest member of their family — Marshall Patrick Kennedy — as they left AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center’s Center for Childbirth in Pomona, New Jersey. Marshall was born May 27 at 8:16 p.m. His birth weight was 7 pounds, 4.2 ounces, and he was 19 ¾ inches long. Older sisters and brothers, Harper, 10; Owen, 6; Nora, 4; and Nell, 2, were at the hospital to escort their baby brother home to Brigantine.

Patrick Kennedy said how special it was that the family left the hospital on May 29, what would have been President John F. Kennedy’s 101st birthday.

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Pictured left: Patrick and Amy Kennedy with Marshall Patrick and older siblings Harper, Owen, Nell, and Nora. Pictured right: The Kennedy Family with Blair Bergen, MD; Kathy Fowler, RN and Kristen Mitchell, PCA.

The Social Scene

Hill Honored by Atlantic City Day Nursery The historic Atlantic City Day Nursery celebrated its 112 year by honoring the 2018 “Giving Tree” recipient, Gary Hill. Friends and supporters of the Day Nursery gathered at the Tropicana for the annual

spring fundraiser, where the school’s history and recent highlights were shared, along with the recognition of Hill, a long-standing board member and representative of the Schultz-Hill Foundation.

Photos by Nicholas & Partners

(L to R) Russell and Mary Beth Snow, Chris and Kelly Day (L to R) Lauren Gibson, Beth Bagocius, Betsy Gibson (L to R) Nick Valinote, Matthew Levinson, Michael Gibson

(L to R) Christine D'Alessandro, Patti Lees, John Schultz, Gary Hill, Lisa Whitley and Lois Ridgway

Annual Bike-aThon Collects Over $1.2 Million for Charity

The American Cancer Society held its annual Bike-a-Thon on June 10th on tour from Philadelphia to Atlantic City. Over 207 teams and 3,354 participants have raised $1,238,312.90 for the organization through this annual event. The AtlantiCare Starfish Cycling Team completed the event with 106 individuals registered for the team, and have raised more than $20,000.

Joan Depiano rolls the dice

Photo by Nicholas & Partners

Laura Temple and Robin Meaney from Manahawkin

The guests have fun at the Roulette table

Annual LPGA Classic Held in June The ShopRite LPGA Classic, presented by Acer, was held in June and featured golfers from around the world, who competed for a prize fund of $1.75 million at the Stockton Seaview Hotel & Golf Clubs historic Bay Course in Galloway Twp., NJ.

Submitted At the Stockton University executive suite, (L to R); Nick Valinote, New Jersey Lifestyle publisher; Pro Golfer Joanna Coe, Dr. Susan Davenport and Daniel Nugent njlifestyleonline.com

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The Social Scene

New Observation Wheel Opens at Steel Pier On June 8th, The Steel Pier in Atlantic City celebrated the opening day of the Observation Wheel, the third largest Ferris wheel in the state. At 227 feet tall and boasting 40 temperature-controlled gondolas, the Observation Wheel gives riders an amazing view of the city and Atlantic Ocean for 12-15 minutes.

Photos by Nicholas & Partners

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Steel Pier President, Anthony Catanoso (center) along with the first couple to get engaged on the Observation Wheel, Neil Calise and Crystal Kaye

Gary Hill (left) and Lloyd Levenson attended the event

The crowd at the pier 40

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The Social Scene

8th Annual Cocktails by the Beach a Success Gilda's Club of South Jersey held its 8th Annual Cocktails by the Beach at the One Atlantic venue located at the Playground Pier in Atlantic City. It was an incredible evening overlooking the Atlantic Ocean as attendees supported education for our local community impacted by

Giovanna Liccio (left) and Gina Lomanaca

Models from left to right: Lina Perry, Henry and Jack Rovilard, Giovanina Liccio, Elena Dicriscio, Isabella O’Brien, Kevin Prendergast and Maria Kravets

Annual Benefit for Holy Spirit High School Coach On June 17th, legendary Holy Spirit High School Coach Bill Walsh celebrated his birthday at a benefit hosted by Walshy’s Warriors, in

Brooke Shields, acclaimed actress, author, and women’s advocate, was the keynote speaker for the 25th Annual Women’s Forum held at the Golden Nugget on June 7. Over 500 attended the event, with $105,000 raised to benefit the Greater Atlantic City Charities. The donations from this year’s event will benefit three different charities: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Atlantic City, Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children, and the Jewish Family Service of Atlantic and Cape May Counties.

Photos by Tracy Walsh Baswell

support of Bill as he battles ALS. The annual event was held at the Laguna Rum Bar in Brigantine and featured live music and lots of great food.

Lisa McLaughlin and her family present Bill Walsh with a signed photo of one of his favorites, Brooke Shields. Brooke also made a video letting Bill know she is thinking about him.

25th Annual Women’s Forum Raises Over $100,000 for Local

Photos by Nicholas & Partners

cancer.

The event featured fabulous food, drinks, and a fashion show put on

by Eleganza. Roberts Fine Jewelers sponsored the Digging for Diamonds promotion that offered participants a chance to win fine jewelry.

From left to right, Lori Burns-Matus, Susan Huggard Almeida, Tony Savastano and Kate Sarkos

Photo by Nicholas & Partners Pictured from left to right, Lisa Johnson, Daniella Hewitt, Brooke Shields, Brett Matik and Donna Ward njlifestyleonline.com

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Restaurant Report

Refinement Redefined

By Alyson Boxman Levine Photos by Nick Valinote

Rediscover the elegance and tradition of fine dining at the historic Ram’s Head Inn, where old-world elegance seamlessly intertwines with casual luxury

Watermelon Salad

IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD, dining has become a lost art, replaced with rushed meals and fast-food frenzies sandwiched between non-stop calls, texts, and social media perusing. Not only are these all-too-quick meals bad for your digestion, they are taking a toll on your overall health as well. According to food industry experts, rushed and distracted eating increases your risk for diabetes, heart disease, and overall stomach issues. Eating is one of life’s necessary pleasures, so why intentionally rush through your meals? Take the time to simply slow down, relax, and allow yourself the luxury of redefining the lost art of fine dining.

There is not a better venue to relax and unwind over a devise-free meal than a restaurant that can boast over 40 years of unparalleled success. A welcoming change of pace from bustling Atlantic City — located a mere eight miles away — the historic Ram’s Head Inn is a true dining oasis. Ideally situated in Galloway, the Ram’s Head Inn oozes uncomplicated elegance. This award-winning restaurant is classically characterized by its wood-burning fireplaces, abundantly blooming sprawling gardens, tucked-away outdoor courtyard dining, and several well-appointed rooms — all of which are available for casual or formal dining, as well as private parties both large and small. Guests enjoy a menu that seamlessly blends traditional American specialties with creative contemporary cuisine expertly prepared

by Chef Elio Gracia and his well-trained staff of culinary professionals.

Acquired by Harry Knowles in 1978, the Ram’s Head Inn was formerly known as the Dutch Barn and served family-style Pennsylvania Dutch food. While the food has changed a bit since its days as the Dutch Barn, the spirit of the Pennsylvania Dutch and the restaurant's image remains intact by virtue of some of the decorations; like an authentic apple press and spinning wheel, and contemporary interpretations of classic dishes, like their highly-regarded Chicken Pot Pie. But the level of sophistication, refinement and fine dining of Harry Knowles’ flagship restaurant, The Manor in West Orange, N.J., would soon find itself at home in the former 1930s roadhouse. To date, the iconic restaurant has earned enough awards and accolades to fill an entire wall of the establishment. We recently sat down with K. Afifi, general manager of the Ram's Head Inn, to discuss the restaurant’s formula for success.

Meat Lover's Paradise

Beef Wellington

Lifestyle: The last time we spoke, you wanted people to know the restaurant was not only for special occasions, but was for casual dining as well. Is this still your goal and how are you going about achieving this?

Afifi: Our Happy Hour is really taking off, especially on Wednesday and Friday evenings when we feature live entertainment. Renowned singer and songwriter Beth Tinnon, the 2018 Atlantic City Lounge Act of the Year, plays at 6:30 PM every Wednesday and Saturday night, and The Bonnie Bennet Duo plays every Friday night at 5:30 njlifestyleonline.com

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

Fresh 1.25 lb. Whole Maine Lobster

PM. Depending on the weather, they play either in the tavern or outside in the courtyard. This live entertainment schedule is helping to make the Ram’s Head Inn more casual. When people visit during Happy Hour, they decide to return for an elegant dinner or have a special occasion here.

In 2018, the Ram's Head Inn won five Atlantic City Nightlife awards, which included: Best Swanky Bar/Lounge, Best Wine List (non-casino), Best Happy Hour (non-casino), Best Cocktail Bar (non-casino), and Best Place to Pop the Question. These awards are also assisting in making the Ram's Head Inn a more casual place to visit. Our Happy Hour also features half-priced glasses of wine, $7 house cocktails, a selection of martinis and Manhattans, as well as half-priced salads, sandwiches, and appetizers. Our Wind Down Wednesdays also features half-priced bottles of wine all night long in the tavern or courtyard under the stars.

Lifestyle: What's new for the Summer of 2018?

Afifi: Currently, we are featuring a 1.25 lb. Whole Main Lobster, with baked potato and vegetable, or a Lobster Mac and Cheese with Fresh Lobster Meat from a 1.25 lb. Lobster, or a Trio, a 4 oz. Filet, with a 6 oz. New York Strip and two baby Lamb Chops for $25.95 every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. We also have our $31.95 threecourse pre-fixed dinner menu available every day but Saturday. We are closed on Monday.

On July 27th, we are excited to host a Blues event called “Get Blue.”

This unique event will feature a Blues band, cigar roller, and a martini and bourbon tasting station. We are offering a buffet, including mini Chicken Pot Pies and two drinks of your choice, for $65 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

We also have an upcoming Wedding Show for perspective brides, where attendees can choose from a selection of DJ's, flowers and, hopefully, the Ram's Head Inn as their wedding venue. This event includes a fashion show and a sampling of complimentary appetizers, entrées, and desserts. This event is scheduled for 1 PM on August 28th in our ballroom and veranda.

Lifestyle: What sets the Ram's Head Inn apart from other area restaurants?

Afifi: One of the things that sets the Ram's Head Inn apart from

other restaurants is our impeccable service. We still serve guests with linen napkins and elegant silverware, while preparing Caesar Salad tableside, Bananas Foster tableside; and we also carve Chateaubriand tableside. We ask guests to turn their cell phones off in the dining room so they can relax in our elegant colonial setting.

Lifestyle: With the ever-changing food trends and economic struggles that have plagued the South Jersey area, many local iconic eateries have been forced to close their doors. What is your recipe for success?

Afifi: No other area dining establishment offers such high-quality products and services at such reasonable prices. Our Happy Hour selections are the same food served on the menu in the main dining rooms, so all our guests receive the same high-quality products for sensible prices. We also offer many different dining venues depending on your mood or event, from a high-end wedding venue in our elegant ballroom to a casual Happy Hour in our courtyard or tavern. Not many local restaurants feature an outdoor venue for the warmer months; however at the Ram's Head Inn, you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or Happy Hour al fresco.

Try our Lobster and Trio Specials this summer; they are a great value and feature the highest quality ingredients available. There is truly something for everyone at the Ram's Head Inn, all served in an elegant, yet relaxing, setting. n

The Ram's Head Inn in Galloway, NJ

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LifeStyle Cooking With Chef Will Savarese

Delicious Summer Memories A s I wait for my latest issue of New Jersey Lifestyle, we happened to

get a beautiful day in Brigantine. We’ve only had a few this season, as on weekends the weather seems to be hit or miss. One day we get beautiful warmth and sunshine, and the next, we have crazy cold, wind, and storms coming through.

On the warm day, my wife and I finally got out there to start the Spring Clean-up. When I trim the roses, I can’t help but think of my Dad. It’s truly amazing this comes into my head. You see, as a kid I played organized baseball and by the time I got home on Saturday after the game, I had to do my garden chores with my Dad. I still remember him telling me since I was short; I get to feed the azaleas bushes. Funny how somethings we remember now as adults. I can still picture him trimming the roses and teaching me where to cut so it will have a better season than last.

By the time you read this, we should hopefully be done with this crazy cycle of weather we’ve been experiencing. I, for one, have my sunflowers sprouting in their cups still indoors. I need to find the right location this year for them, as I’m looking for a three-peat.

That’s right; every year in Brigantine they have a Sunflower contest and I won the last two years in a row … I’m sure some people aren’t so happy about that fact, but that’s another story.

This season, strive to not get caught up in the fast pace of our lives going past us. You see, for the longest time I’ve been commuting from Brigantine to Manhattan daily. For the most part, traffic never bothered me. Years ago, there were times when Patti (my wife) and I would get in the car and drive for hours exploring new areas, finding great glass shops and farms, and all other kind of stuff. It was a great way to clear the mind, breath in the clean and crisp air, and relish in the sun; it was pure medicine for the body and soul. We were also known to be crazy enough to drive hours because I happened to read about

a new restaurant opening or a new art exhibit.

One of our prize trips was a drive we did almost 10 years ago. The day, we drove in the cold outside of Pittsburgh, PA. We met a lady; I believe it was in a diner parking lot. She was a breeder of Scottish Terriers, and she had two with her. That was a difficult day since we only could keep one. I look back on that day and wish we would have taken them both. We’ve had Milo with us for almost 10 years now and he has given us such joy. It’s sad to see him slow down a bit now, but we couldn’t have asked for a better companion.

With grilling season finally upon us, I, for one, love a good steak on the barbecue. Maybe it’s a combination of things; grilling outdoors, sun shining, usually on a Sunday, no work, family, friends, and the doggies. How can it not be a good day? Throw on a couple of baked potatoes or make a potato salad to go along with some other salads. I always enjoy a tomato, red onion, and fresh mozzarella salad. Simple ingredients bought at their freshness and peak will always taste so much better. When grilling a good steak, keep it simple. It should only require a touch of EVOO, Kosher salt, and some fresh cracked pepper. Don’t forget to pair it with a nice bottle of red (chef’s preference). Enjoy the summer. n Chef Will Savarese is back at the helm of Robert’s Steakhouse; now located in the new Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Don’t forget to follow Chef Will Savarese on Instagram.

Recipe Corner Will’s Homestyle Potato Salad Ingredients: • 3 lbs. small golden potatoes (Yukon gold, red bliss or fingerlings) • 2 eggs, cooked to hard boiled • 1/2 red onion, diced • 2 pcs. scallions, slice all • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard • 4 tbsp. Hellmann’s Mayo with olive oil • 2 tbsp. EVOO • S & P

Instructions: Boil then simmer potatoes in salted water, cooked unitl tender. Strain, and let cool, then slice. Cook eggs to hard boiled state, 10-12 minutes.

When all ingredients are cool, slice the potatoes. Chop up the eggs, small. Combine all other ingredients and mix well. Refrigerate the salad so it chills well before serving; serves 4. Enjoy. njlifestyleonline.com

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LifeStyle Wine

18 Exciting Bottles

By Phillip Silverstone

Try something new this summer as you experience our 2018 go-to favorites

T

he winter months gave me some time to discover wines from California I’ve never heard of, let alone allowed to pass between my lips. These are stupendously-crafted, deliciously-exciting examples of the best nectar I feel are suited to fill our glasses during this very welcome summer of 2018. Perfect if you are poolside or dockside along the Jersey shore, in your backyard, on your balcony, or simply staring into the eyes of your main squeeze, or even your loved Chihuahua. Prices shown are approximate and I’m selecting multiple wines from a handful of the producers I feel deserve recognition (and tasting).

Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery Sea Slopes 2016 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County ($35) Sea Slopes Pinot Noir is a result of a cool maritime climate which produces fruit of exceptional quality and wines of great elegance and purity. The wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks, and then aged in French oak barrels. The result is a ruby red wine, with a cherry scent and flavors of strawberry, red currant, and juicy black plums. Take my advice and ignore what friends might tell you. Put this wine in the fridge for 20 minutes, and then enjoy it with a barbecue! It totally rocks!

Harken 2016 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay, Arroyo Seco, Monterey, Central Coast ($15) Arroyo Seco is a Viticultural Area in Monterey County, California, southeast of Monterey Bay. Harken created their Chardonnay because they were striving to produce the rich, oaky taste of Chardonnays of old. They believed, as do I, that those great toasty notes and buttery finish went out of style. So, thankfully, Harken went back to basics. This wine is 100% barrel fermented, with seven months of aging in 80% American oak barrels and 20% in French oak. This rich Chardonnay exhibits a classic profile of tropical fruit and Bosch pear, alongside warm oak aromatics.

The luscious taste suggests crème brulée and buttered toast, and leaves a fresh clean flavor on your tongue.

Line 39 wines originate from select vineyards located in some of the most prestigious winegrowing regions in California. The 39th parallel runs through the heart of California wine country and is home to Line 39 wines. The wines are produced to express their region of origin and premium vineyard pedigree, enabling the winery to produce outstanding super-premium wines with an ideal balance of rich, ripe fruit flavors, and crisp acidity. Their vineyard sites are situated in several premier appellations. And, just look at their prices – perfectly affordable for summer soirees.

Line 39 Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 California ($11) This Cab exhibits rich fruit flavors of currant, blackberry, and ripe plum with hints of black tea on the palate. The wine finishes with 46

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subtle, smooth tannins that don’t overpower this easy-to-drink red devil.

Line 39 Pinot Noir 2016 California ($11) A fruit-driven Pinot Noir with a perfume of fresh fruit and herbs with rich flavors of raspberries and black cherries and soft, supple tannins. This Pinot Noir pairs well with lamb, pork. and pasta dishes.

Line 39 EXCURSION Red Blend 2016 California ($11) This red blend of Petit Verdot, Petit Sirah, Zinfandel, and Merlot grape varieties, offers concentrated aromas of blackberry jam, ripe raspberries, mocha, and warm toasted oak. The flavor is rich and structured with plum, dark chocolate, sweet vanilla, and spice.

These concentrated aromas of red and black fruit and balanced tannins culminate into a long and lingering finish.

Line 39 Sauvignon Blanc 2016 California ($11) A Sauvignon Blanc that opens with the expected, and welcome, vibrant aromas of grapefruit and lemon, with subtle grassy characters and grapefruit flavors and a crisp clean finish. Easily married to shellfish or simply quaffing while watching the setting sun.

Austerity Wines are made with fruit from exceptional, but lesser-known wine regions along California's Central Coast. They produce Austerity wines to maintain the natural character and allure of a premier appellation wine. They are looking for new regions with the “X Factor.”

Austerity Chardonnay 2016 Arroyo Seco, Monterey ($17) Monterey’s Arroyo Seco, offers grapes capable of producing wines of stellar complexity and richness at an affordable price.

This creamy, layered Chardonnay features aromas of crème brulee, golden apples, and toasted marshmallows. The taste reveals tropical fruit and pineapple flavors, complemented by a velvety texture rich and buttery.

Austerity Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Paso Robles ($17) Paso Robles’ grapes are capable of producing Cabernet Sauvignon of extraordinary depth and concentration also at an affordable price. This robust Cab features ripe cherry aromas followed by licorice and sweet oak. The layered flavors have bright red fruits with a bold framework of structured tannins. The depth of flavor is underscored by a long finish.

Austerity Pinot Noir 2016 Monterey ($17) Monterey offers Pinot Noir of great vibrancy and balance with complexity, structure, bright acidity, and depth of flavor. This elegant and opulent Pinot Noir features aromas of black cherry, violets, and leather. The palate reveals cherry, pomegranate, tea, white pepper, complimented by the oak character and a long finish.

Robert Hall Winery in Paso Robles has two amazing winemakers. Don Brady has been the lead winemaker since 2001 and Amanda Gorter joined the winery in 2013 as Don’s assistant

winemaker.

Robert Hall 2016 Viognier Paso Robles ($19) Featuring orange blossom and sweet spice aromas, this white wine has flavors of white peach and honeysuckle with a hint of lime zest. On the palate the wine has a luscious body and finishes with a balanced mouth-watering acidity. Enjoy chilled by itself or with fresh fruits, seafood and cheese.

Robert Hall 2017 Rosé de Robles Paso Robles ($19) This wine is bursting with aromas of fresh strawberry and hints of raspberry and tangerine. Bright red berry fruit and citrus zest flavors echo the aromas. Refreshing and dry, the Rosé de Robles is mediumbodied with a balanced acidity that lingers on the tongue. Enjoy with a variety of foods, including cheese, salads, seafood, and grilled meats.

Robert Hall 2016 Chardonnay Paso Robles ($19) This Chard has pear, apple, and peach aromas with a suggestion of vanilla spice. It is a bright straw-gold color. Rich from barrel fermentation and aging, it also offers distinct peach, pear, and butterscotch flavors. The wine is round, medium-bodied, with balancing acidity and toasty oak that lengthens the finish.

Robert Hall 2015 Merlot Paso Robles ($19) There is a rich perfume of ripe black cherry accentuated by hints of cedar. Lush, ruby-red color indicates the level of concentration yielded by the vintage and the vineyards. In your mouth you will discover rich flavors mirroring the aromas with soft, silky tannins on the finish.

Robert Hall 2015 Zinfandel Paso Robles ($19) A full-bodied wine with a dense core of fresh raspberry and cranberry fruit intertwined with a peppery spice. Soft tannins and moderate acidity nicely balance the robust fruit and spice flavors in this food friendly wine. Enjoy with a juicy steak, grilled portabella mushroom, pungent cheese, or decadent chocolate desserts.

Robert Hall 2015 Syrah Paso Robles ($19) A well-structured wine expressing compelling nuances of ripe blackberry and cocoa with a touch of smoke and spice. The deep dark ruby-red color hints at the opulent fruit flavors of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, which lead to a rich, mouth-watering finish.

Robert Hall 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles ($19) The intense dark ruby red color of the Cabernet Sauvignon is reflective of this full-bodied, flavorful wine. The core of black currant and hints of cedar and spice along with cocoa aromas echoed by rich persistent flavors of plush ripe fruit, dark chocolate, and anise are all supported by balanced rich velvety tannins.

Day Owl Winery is just the ticket for summer days and the young at heart if not of age.

Day Owl Barbera Rosé 2017 California ($15) Barbera is the primary varietal in Day Owl Rosé. Bright, citrusy, and effortlessly cool, this versatile wine pairs perfectly with whatever the day throws at it … well maybe not sand! This pink seductress radiates with floral red fruit and vibrant orange zest vibes. Lively acidity and a dry, elegant finish make it perfect with barbecued chicken, or my favorite, cold Thai sesame noodles, or yummy tacos. n “Time Out With Phillip Silverstone” is a weekly podcast heard exclusively on TuneIn radio anytime worldwide either on the free TuneIn app for all smart phones and tablets (Search: Phillip Silverstone) or online at: http://bit.ly/1gY2Ht4. Follow him on Twitter: @wining and at https://www.facebook.com/ Phillipsilverstone.

RESTAURANT WEEK Join us for our Latest Specials...

Fresh Maine Lobster Mac & Cheese

Fresh 11/4 lb.

Whole Maine Lobster Trio of

HAPPY HOUR Meat Lover's Paradise

4oz. Filet, 8oz. Strip Steak, AND 2 Baby Lamb Chops with potato and vegetable

Drink Specials & Half-Price Glasses of Wine, Appetizers, $ 25.95 Sandwiches & Salads

AVAILABLE NOW FOR A LIMITED TIME DURING FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY DINNER HOURS.

HAPPY HOUR LUNCH IN OUR TAVERN & COURTYARD P.M. TUESDAY - FRIDAY &EVENTS SUNDAY | DINNER | TAVERN5-7 HAPPY HOUR | PRIVATE HALF-PRICE GLASSES OF WINE. DRINK SPECIALS. HALF-PRICE APPETIZERS, SANDWICHES & SALADS

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Phill’s Best of the Bunch: Summer Wine Cocktail Day Owl Roséade 5 oz. Day Owl Rosé 1 oz. Absolut Citron 2 basil leaves 1 lemon wedge 1/2 oz. simple sugar 1 ½ oz. club soda Muddle the basil, lemon, and simple sugar in a cocktail shaker.

Fill the shaker with ice and add the Day Owl Rosé and Absolut Citron.

Stir and pour into glass; garnish with a lemon wedge.

Chill out and enjoy the fab, yet affordable, nectar. Cheers!

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LifeStyle 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.

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.

609-822-3604 nobilfoodservices.com A privately owned and operated food service management company and caterer, Nobil Food Services is the region's 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.

The Historic Smithville Inn

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.

LongHorn Steakhouse

4417 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing, NJ 609-383-8539 longhornsteakhouse.com One visit and you'll experience their grill master's Legendary Steaks, like their center-cut Flo's Filet or Prime Rib. Try bold flavors from their Peak Season and Chef's Showcase menu, or signature entrees like Parmesan Crusted Chicken or LongHorn Salmon. The lunch menu also features over 30 different combinations, including their LongHorn salads and Steakhouse burgers. Try one of their popular Strawberry Margaritas or signature Perfect Margaritas. And don't forget to save room for Molten Lava Cake.

Maplewood

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.

Joseph's Restaurant at Renault Winery Crab Trap

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

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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. 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.

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.

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 awardwinning Champagne brunches and romantic dinners for two to post-golf parties or snacks during the big game, there’s something for every taste. Dining at Seaview is an experience not to be missed!

Tomatoes

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.

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.

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.

DINING GALLERY ADVERTISING RATES $95.00 per month 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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TROPICANA (THE QUARTER) Capriccio 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.

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.

RESORTS Gallagher’s Steakhouse

Resorts Casino, Atlantic City, NJ 609-340-6555 gallaghersresorts.com A classic steakhouse serving hearty salads, dryaged 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. Open for dinner Sunday thru Thursday 5-9:30 pm, Friday 5-10 pm, Saturday 5-11 pm.

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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, the food and view are spectacular.

CAESARS Nero's Italian Steakhouse

Caesar's, Atlantic City, NJ 609-343-2505 caesars.com Oceanside dining in a magnificent old world setting. Entrées feature Prime grade steaks, delicious pastas and a fresh seafood selection that you won't find anywhere else. Nero’s also serves the most decadent Sunday brunch in Atlantic City with specialties such as filet of beef, grilled swordfish, freshly carved turkey and handmade lasagna. Dive into their succulent seafood favorites, including shrimp, crab claws, oysters, or freshly prepared sushi. Enjoy the bottomless Bloody Mary bar and an amazing dessert display.

PLAYGROUND AT CAESARS

Phillips Seafood

The Playground at Caesars, Atlantic City, NJ 609-348-2273 phillipsseafood.com Enjoy Phillips’ classic signature crab cakes along with delicious seasonal fishes and an array of seafood choices. Want a bit of land and sea?

Phillips continues to accommodate with their famous Surf and Turf, served with a juicy 6-oz filet and 6-oz tender lobster tail; all for $19.95!

It doesn’t stop there; Phillips’ Happy Hour is now all day every day (except Saturday). Select choice appetizers as well as cocktails keep you comfortable and full for the duration of your visit. Experience an upscale, interactive dining experience with their exhibition kitchen, who will also happily serve your banquet or large event. Phillips Seafood, located on the third floor of The Playground at Caesars, brings guests the most succulent classic American seafood while surrounded by a captivating view of the Atlantic City Boardwalk and beaches.

Souzai Sushi & Saki

The 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.

The Continental

The Playground at Caesars, Atlantic City, NJ 609-674-8300 continentalac.com Stephen Starr’s Continental features a clever mix of vintage elegance and vanguard sophistication.

It invokes the drama of the Rat Pack days on the Vegas Strip. The space incorporates unique retro elements such as a sunken fire-pit lounge, populuxe bar and outdoor patio, all accented by breathtaking views of the ocean. The global tapas menu showcases a variety of innovative dishes meant to be shared. And of course the martinis are an essential part of the experience. Whimsical culinary creations and specialty cocktails make for a fun and hip dining experience.

Buddakan

The 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.

When Selecting

your AdviSory letterS do mAtter.....

Firm

and we just happen to have them all.....

CFP®, CPA, CFA, PFS n As SEC REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISORS we adhere to a higher standard of fiduciary care.

609-380-3500 332 TILTON ROAD, NORTHFIELD, NJ www.crafinancial.com

We are CRA Financial.

Thomas Reynolds, CPA Matthew Reynolds, CPA, CFP® Robert Martin, CFA®, CFP® Frank Thomas, CPA, PFS Gordon Shearer, Jr, CFP® Jeffrey Hilliard, CFP®, CRPC®

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 $650 Million in assets under management, we have the RESOURCES, the EXPERIENCE and the KNOWLEDGE to help you achieve your financial goals.

You have a good heart.

We have everything you need to keep it that way.

As the only full-service cardiac surgery program in southeastern New Jersey, AtlantiCare’s Heart Institute is healing hearts with advanced levels of cardiac care — close to home. Here you have access to state-of-the-art diagnostics, as well as board-certified cardiac and vascular specialists with sophisticated surgical capabilities. You’ll benefit from a seamless care experience, from provider to healthcare facility to rehab.

• Minimally invasive surgery • Mitral repair • Surgical and catheter AFib ablation • TAVR • Beating-heart surgery

• Dedicated cardiac care team and unit • Personalized care • Intensive cardiac rehab program — Ornish Reversal Program™ • Dare to C.A.R.E. vascular screening

Named Top 5% in the Nation

by Healthgrades® in 2018 • Overall Cardiac Services • Cardiac Surgery • Cardiology Services • Coronary Interventional Procedures

To learn more about the AtlantiCare Heart Institute, visit www.atlanticare.org/heart or call 1-888-569-1000.

SIGN UP FOR A FREE VASCULAR SCREENING.

Dare to C.A.R.E. is now at AtlantiCare. This is a free vascular screening and education program to help you detect and manage your risk for vascular disease. Call 609-484-7355 to register.