NJ Lifestyle Magazine Fall 2020 Issue

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

FALL 2020

Breathtaking Autumn LIVING ALFRESCO • SUPER LUXURY POWER HAWAIIAN DREAMS • PASS THE BREAD, PLEASE

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LifeStyle View

Change Is Good

C

hange is probably the most difficult thing for the majority of us. I’m not sure why, but you would think we would be more nimble when it comes to the challenges that confront us. Change is the threat to the consistency we all love and rely on. But with change comes new opportunities. With our current pandemic and social distance requirements, it appears that we are all getting back to appreciating the simple things again. For instance, I was fascinated to hear that bread making machines were selling out due to spending so much time homemaking. I feel the opportunity lies in the creativity of making something.

Speaking of great bread, in this issue we talk to some local bakeries and learn about one of our area’s best assets. If you’re like me, you often judge a restaurant by the quality of the bread they serve. It’s a small detail that adds so much to a meal.

In addition to bread making, we’ve been spending a lot of time in our home working the grill. With that in mind, we have a feature on augmenting your back yard for “Living Alfresco”. With travel limited, we included an amazing South Pacific destination without a passport, Hawaii. And if you’ve never had a convertible, you don’t know what you’re missing, so check out the new Mercedes S Cabriolet. Like so many great attributes of our area, we have the world-class Harriet Tubman Museum in downtown Cape May. And if you have to wear a mask it may as well be a nice one, so check out some creative options on incorporating this new fashion accessory. Also, guest writer Louisa Esposito gives us incredible insight into what it’s like to be a student during these chaotic times.

Although things seem daunting lately, we must remember that we are resilient and we will adapt and overcome. Change requires us to accept the new realities and make the best of it. As I stated in the last issue, we need to be sensitive to those around us and the various struggles. Centering on core values that are most important are assets that will carry us forward to prosperity. Most of the items, luxury or not, are merely there to support our core values of family, camaraderie, friendship, love, and companionship. I guess it’s the last one that we are craving as we spend more time in our smaller circles.

Please check out our Resource Gallery when it comes to suiting our new lifestyles and sourcing many of the items we feature. We’ve taken the time to find the best-in-class vendors who will exceed your expectations. With that, I wish you a safe and festive fall.

Stay strong, be positive, and be of service.

Nick Valinote, Publisher

How to reach us To advertise call 609.513.0813 or email njlifestylemagazine@gmail.com NJLifeStyleonline.com Visiting our website is your connection to South Jersey’s Good Life.

New Jersey Lifestyle Magazine is distributed exclusively by direct mail to the top 1% in Atlantic and Cape May Counties. facebook.com/NJlifestyleMag instagram.com/njlifestylemag

On the cover: The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Linguini with Clam Sauce from Chef Vola’s.

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CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS

Anthony Rando opened Rando Bakery in 1909

54

We solve the age-old mystery: Why is bread in the Atlantic City area so unique (and delicious)?

FEATURES

Living Alfresco...................................... 14

32

Super Luxury Power............................. 28

Lifestyle Fashion...................................... 6 Fashion with a purpose.

Bring your indoor entertaining outdoors.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is outright decadent.

Hawaiian Dreams................................. 32 An adventure to one of the most exotic places in America.

Pass The Bread, Please......................... 54

A look at two of Hawaii’s most visited islands.

Health Watch........................................... 22 Old school, new school.

Lifestyle Wellness.................................... 26 Family connections.

Breads, loaves and rolls are “rising” all over the area.

Lifestyle Art............................................. 38 A living museum.

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Lifestyle Entertainment........................... 44 A pandemic pulls the plug.

The options are endless when creating your outdoor living space.

Lifestyle Leaders...................................... 48 Legally bond.

Lifestyle Events........................................ 50 Local happenings in and around our area.

The Social Scene...................................... 52 Get the picture on the latest events and happenings.

Lifestyle Wine.......................................... 60 Wine Q & A. Resource Gallery..................................... 62 Shop, dine, relax and support local.

Money Watch.......................................... 64 Mid-year review 2020.

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LifeStyle Contributors The people who make it great

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Darla Scarduzzio Creative Director Darla has been an integral part of NJ Lifestyle Magazine since 2004. From sales to publishing to graphic design, she has experienced all aspects of the industry.

Michael Bray Wine Writer Michael is the founder of and director of operations at Passion Vines Wine & Spirit Company in Somers Point and EHT. He serves on numerous local boards.

Felicia Lowenstein Writer Felicia has been writing professionally on a wide range of topics for nearly three decades. In addition to feature articles, she also has authored nearly two dozen nonfiction children’s books.

Danielle Gomes Writer Danielle is an author, freelance writer and brand marketing specialist. Her nationally featured work has won numerous awards. She lives in Margate with her husband and two sons.

Robin Stoloff Health Reporter Robin has been a local health reporter since 1986, and hosts Living Well on Lite Rock 96.9. Her professional mission is “empowering people to live a healthy life.”

Lisa Johnson & Dennis Hayes Dennis’ passion is learning the secrets of preparing good food, traveling the world, and living life to the fullest. Lisa is an award-winning TV journalist from Las Vegas, Philadelphia, and Atlantic City.

Molly Golubcow Writer By day, Molly has been a technical writer for over 20 years. By night, she escapes the world of “Press Enter” to write about anything other than technical subjects.

Kristian Gonyea Photographer Kristian’s 15+ years of photography has appeared in various newspapers and magazines. His love of South Jersey has blossomed into his most recent works, sunrises and sunsets.

Michael Cagno Artist, Writer Michael is the Executive Director of the Noyes Museum of Art, V.P. of the Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums, and adjunct professor at three local colleges.

Eric Weeks Photographer Eric’s love of photography has won awards for many images throughout the years, along with a cover image for the Professional Photographers of America’s Loan Collection book.

Elaine Rose Writer Elaine was a staff writer for the Press of Atlantic City for nearly 22 years where she covered every subject except sports. Her work has won multiple awards.

Paul Dempsey Photographer From expressway billboards to European fashion magazines — Paul’s photography is fresh, unique, and intentional. His photos tell the stories that need no words.

David Spatz Entertainment Writer David is an Emmy Award-winning host and a multi-media journalist with 45 years experience. His entertainment series, Curatin Call, is SJ’s only program to win an Emmy.

Don Kravitz Photographer Don is an entertainment photojournalist and special events photographer for national publications, as well as Getty Images, Miss America, and the city of Ocean City, NJ.

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LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

MAGAZINE

YOU’RE NEVER FAR FROM EXCELLENT LEGAL COUNSEL Helping Our Community to Emerge Stronger

Publisher

Nick Valinote Creative Director

Darla Scarduzzio Contributing Editor

Lisa Johnson Contributing Writers

Michael Bray Michael Cagno Louisa Esposito Molly Golubcow Danielle Gomes Dennis Hayes Felicia L. Niven Matt and Tom Reynolds Elaine Rose David Spatz Robin Stoloff Photographers

Paul Dempsey Kristian Gonyea Justin Tinel Nick Valinote Eric Weeks Online Media Information

www.njlifestyleonline.com

New Jersey Lifestyle is published by Nicholas & Partners. The entire contents of New Jersey Lifestyle are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher. Nicholas & Partners assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. Nicholas & Partners reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse editorial material and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. NJ Lifestyle Magazine and Nicholas & Partners assume no responsibility for writers opinions and contents. All correspondence should be sent to:

As the public health crisis continues to unfold, Archer is here to help you through unforeseen challenges. Our COVID-19 task force spans dozens of practice areas and industries, and is helping companies through a host of issues as they conduct business during this unprecedented time. From employment, health care and insurance to business counseling, family law and more, our attorneys are up to date on the latest regulations, legislation and developments, and will continue to provide the excellent client service that you have come to expect from us.

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Nicholas & Partners P.O. Box 1183, Absecon, NJ 08201 Telephone: 609-513-0813 njlifestylemagazine@gmail.com njlifestyleonline.com

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LifeStyle Fashion

Fashion With A

Purpose

From face masks to earth-friendly materials, fashion is looking towards the future.

By Danielle Gomes

Clothing from The Phoenix Brand

T

his fall, fashion is becoming more than just a form of selfexpression. Fashion has a purpose. From keeping us healthy to improving our environment, the latest trends prove that our personal style has an impact on the world around us. nnn Accessory of the Year Study after study confirms the importance of wearing masks during this pandemic. “We know that we have to wear face masks and that they will be here for a long time, so people are embracing this latest accessory trend and looking for masks that represent

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them,” says Rose Marie McCarthy, general manager at the Talk of the Walk.

Currently, Talk of the Walk is selling up to 200 face masks a week. They carry women’s, men’s, and children’s masks.

“Face masks have become a huge fashion trend. They add style to both a traditional and modern wardrobe,” McCarthy says. While you have to wear a mask, there are no rules when it comes to styling your mask. “Things have really changed this past couple of months. People are looking at your mask now, so it’s natural to want to wear something that reflects your personality,” McCarthy says.

A popular trend is matching your mask to your outfit. When matching, McCarthy recommends, a solid face mask with a print outfit or a print face mask with a solid top. “We have these adorable denim masks that tie behind your head. They’re made by a company that just makes denim and they go with almost everything. Men love them. Then we also have this beautiful, very classy, blue paisley face mask that looks great with jeans or a white outfit,” McCarthy says, adding that it’s a personal style choice.

If you really want to match, Talk of the Walk carries sets that come with

LIFESTYLE FASHION matching masks. “We have matching tops with masks, matching dresses with masks and we are getting in matching sweaters with masks,” McCarthy says.

Finally, if you want to match with your mini, there are mother/daughter matching masks. “The mother/daughter masks have been very popular,” McCarthy says.

However, your mask definitely does not have to match your outfit.

“Masks are here to stay. They’re part of our daily fashion and they can make a statement. There are such a variety of masks now. Some of our top sellers are our masks that represent how you feel,” McCarthy says. Masks that feature dogs or cats on them, faith-based or inspirational messages, and individual interests such as a love of wine, have been very popular. There are animalprint masks and embellished masks.

There’s a mask for every style. Proving that even with a mask on, your style and personality can still shine through. Talk of the Walk currently has a mask special of three individual masks for $39.99.

They will happily make deliveries of three or more masks. You can also set up private shopping appointments if you’re still not comfortable with going out in public. nnn Fashion with a Purpose The fashion industry has become one of the world’s most polluting industries and consumers are taking notice. “Small choices can have a huge impact on the environment and people are eager to make a difference,” says Gabrielle Gomes, co-founder of The Phoenix Brand. With earth as their motive, science as their method, and art as their medium, The Phoenix Brand is aimed at challenging the conventional fashion industry and in particular fast fashion, which is cheap clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers. “We define Phoenix as an artistically driven material science company. Our goal

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LIFESTYLE FASHION is to break down old ways in order to define a new path, aimed at eliminating the plastic and toxic chemical pollution plaguing the textile industry,” says Trina Assur, co-founder.

One of the main sources of pollution in the fashion industry might surprise you. It’s coming out of our very own homes and into our oceans.

Each time you launder synthetic material, such as polyester, it releases microplastics into our water systems.

These microplastics eventually find their way to our waterways, poisoning fish and contributing to one of the largest problems plaguing our seas.

“There are over 190,000 tons of plastic in the ocean from synthetic material,” Assur says.

Innovative fashion brands like Phoenix, are founded on the idea that there’s a better way. Fashion does not have to leave a toxic footprint on the environment. “Our brand is built on a foundation that prioritizes the health of our planet and communities. Our fabrics are natural and biodegradable, we never use toxic chemicals, all of our dyes are natural and nontoxic and manufacturing is safe and fair,” Gomes says.

Phoenix doesn’t stop there. “We believe that fashion has the power to affect real change. Not only are our methods clean, but we also see another power behind the fashion industry.

We believe that fashion has the ability to affect cultural awareness and truly create lasting change. With this, our mission has become two-fold,” Assur says.

Phoenix released their Galileo Capsule this past summer with the intention of creating awareness around this issue. “We collaborated with artist, Edgar Garcia, a first-generation Mexican American with a deep appreciation of the ocean. Garcia is an avid scuba diver and has seen the devastating effect of pollution on our oceans first-hand,”

Assur says.

This October, Phoenix is releasing their debut line. Centered around silhouettes designed with a heritage meets modern perspective, Phoenix creates a vintage streetwear vibe. “We use all biodegradable natural plantbased materials, completely replacing the pollutive synthetic materials typically used in the fashion industry.

True to our zero-waste philosophy, we are producing a limited quantity,” Assur says. With this release, Phoenix collaborated with the emerging performance artist, the Flowmingos, who inspired the bold artwork displayed on their garments.

From face masks to fashion with a purpose, this fall style has a deeper meaning. The health of our neighbors and planet matter to the modern consumer. Let’s let fast fashion fade, while we smile underneath our masks. n

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LifeStyle Fashion

Style-worthy Masks We’re going to be wearing cloth face masks for a while, so that gives you all the more reason to find one that you like. Given the prevalence of mask selfies, it’s likely that masks will start to become fashion items, rather than merely functional. Check out these top sellers available at Talk of the Walk.

The Hope Mask in yellow & black

The Hope Mask in purple & white

Quotes to Live By

Wine O’clock

Mix It Up

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Living Alfresco

Backyard kitchens are the perfect spot for entertaining outside

Step-up your culinary skills with a woodfire pizza oven

Bring your indoor entertaining outdoors, and create a masterpiece where the options are endless.

By Danielle Gomes

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Home & Design

T

his summer was all about Al Fresco Dining. While the season may be wrapping up, there’s still plenty of good weather to enjoy eating outdoors. As dining outside has become the new normal, now is the perfect time to build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Seizing on those ‘end of season’ sales, step into fall with a backyard galley that will make your neighbors jealous.

“Backyard kitchens are the perfect spot for entertaining outside, throughout spring, summer, and FALL. Just like everyone congregates around your kitchen island indoors, most people will work their way towards the grill master at the BBQ,” says Dana HartmanHiltner, Marketing Director, home design specialist, and Realtor with the Hartman Home Team of Berkshire Hathaway Fox & Roach Realtors. As we’ve all been spending more time at home, an outdoor kitchen is a great way to extend your living space.

“Almost anyone can apply flame to food and create something delicious! Whether you’re a novice or a chef, you don’t need to limit yourself to just summertime grilling,” says Ray Leotta, Sales Manager at Art Handlers Appliance Center. However, with nearly endless options, designing your cooking space can be a daunting task. Local experts have some tips to help you create an alfresco masterpiece.

Cooking Preferences Taking your cooking outdoors opens up a world of methods that you simply can’t do indoors. From woodfire pizza ovens to smokers, alfresco cooking is a great way to step-up your culinary skills. When you’re designing your outdoor kitchen, what you want to cook should be the first thing you take into consideration. “If you are a committed carnivore, you’ll want refrigeration that will allow you to safely hold meats (and cocktails!) while spending more time at the pool and fewer trips indoors. A budding pizza artist? There are a

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2020

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Custom outdoor patio with grill and fireplace

variety of excellent pizza ovens to choose from — just be sure that you don’t skimp on the prep space,” Leotta says.

Beyond cooking, you’ll also want to think about how you want the space to be used. “When designing your outdoor kitchen, think about how you like to entertain. Do you prefer a beachy sit-down dinner or a casual BBQ? Do you want to include a fire pit for s’mores and more?”

Hartman-Hiltner says.

Climate New Jersey weather can be unpredictable. However, with the right design, you can enjoy your outdoor space almost all year. “Incorporating a covered patio into the design of your outdoor kitchen can extend the amount of use you get out

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Custom outdoor kitchen

HOME & DESIGN of your space,” says Keith Sharp, owner of Lighthouse Lawn and Maintenance.

However, the climate is more than just rain or shine when it comes to outdoor cooking. Sharp explains that when planning your outdoor kitchen, you want to first consider the climate in your own backyard. More specifically, how your backyard space reacts to the weather. Is there an area in your backyard that is always sunny or hot, is there a section where the wind whips up, or is there an area that floods easier?

These are all considerations that you will want to factor into the planning of your outdoor kitchen space.

If you’re unsure, talk to an expert.

Greentrees Landscape Construction in Egg Harbor Township will help you figure out your backyard woes so that you can avoid any unpleasant surprises at your cookout.

Permanent vs. Temporary Are you ready to fully commit or do you like to keep your options open?

A full built-in outdoor kitchen will be beautiful, but it will require a significant amount of work and it will be there for years to come. You will likely need to run gas and possibly plumbing. Which means that you will most likely need to hire a contractor. The build-out will also take some time.

However, if you’re not ready for that kind of commitment and you want your outdoor kitchen now, there are complete modular options. These outdoor kitchen options can be moved in and out, on a whim and come with a variety of features. When choosing this option, it’s important to know exactly what kitchen features you want and what you can live without. “If I had to pick one essential component, my favorite outdoor kitchen feature is a built-in mini-fridge as it helps make entertaining a breeze,” Hartman-Hiltner recommends.

Or, you can opt for a hybrid with some permanent features that gives you the best of both worlds. For example, a built-in frame for the modular

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HOME & DESIGN kitchen components will give you the feel of a permanent space without the full time or resource commitment. It will also allow you to seamlessly blend a few different kitchen features, so that you can have everything you want. “Then, just add an outdoor TV or some music to your space and let the fun really begin! This is a great way to socialize when cooking up some burgers and dogs for your guests,” Hartman-Hiltner says.

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Space Once you figure out what you want to get out of your kitchen, you need to fit your concept into your individual space. Outdoor kitchens come in all sizes, so understanding your individual space and what can or can’t fit into it will be essential. “At the shore, many backyards are limited on space, so homeowners will get really creative and build their outdoor kitchens into decks or the side of a garage. While mainland homes often have very big backyards, so creating an outdoor kitchen that feels like a finished space can be equally challenging,” Hartman-Hiltner says. Regardless of how much space you have, the design options are endless.

“Just, don’t forget to make sure your materials can hold up to the heat and elements!” Hartman-Hiltner says.

Budget and finishes “On average, a decent outdoor kitchen will start out at around $8,000. Whereas, more elaborate options can easily cost more than $20,000,” Leotta says. With this broad range, having an idea of what you want to spend is essential when planning your space. There are so many options that you can create your dream kitchen at almost any budget, especially when you have an idea of what you want to go in.

“Ultimately, your outdoor space should be functional and practical and it should reflect you and your family!” says Hartman-Hiltner.

To complete the space, “Make sure your outdoor furniture matches your outdoor kitchen setting. And, don’t forget to add the comfy pillows, outdoor rug, candles, and string lights! Bring your indoors out to really make the space your own!” says Hartman-Hiltner. n Experts: Art Handlers Appliance Center — Ray Leotta 10 E. Black Horse Pike in Pleasantville 609-641-1044, Ray@handlersappliance.com Greentrees Landscaping — Ralph Pappas 1333 Dougherty Road in Egg Harbor Township.

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Health Watch

Old School, New School A high school student’s perspective on how COVID impacted our local schools.

By Louisa Esposito

2

020 always sounded like a cool graduation year, but little did I know that it would be amongst a pandemic. I first heard about COVID-19 when seeing some posts about it on Instagram in December 2019. I wasn’t too concerned about it as it was only in China, and I also felt that it wouldn’t affect me. But as I began to hear more about COVID-19, my feelings changed.

When March came around, it had just reached NJ and was spreading fast. By March 9th, I was overwhelmed as I could not go to a single class without hearing about COVID-19. When a few schools in NJ closed down, I knew that it wouldn’t be long until mine would, too. I remember my last normal week. That weekend I did things that I would not be able to do again for a while; I went out for dinner and slept over a friend’s house. On Sunday, March 15th, I received the news that Monday would be a day of learning how online education would operate and that our school would temporarily close. I wish I had treated that day differently. I would have cherished it instead of rushing off as soon as it was over had I known it would be my last day.

After that, school was different. I woke up later as it was impossible to be tardy. Some teachers met up with us on Zoom in the late morning and others just assigned work online.

Our sports changed too. 17-year-old former Ocean City High School student-athlete and incoming Rowan University freshman Sophia Ginet described her story: “My track coach sent team workouts via Google Classroom. In all honesty, the 2020 spring track season was over before it even started. However, it was nice to know that the coach had our backs, and the team banded together, keeping positive spirits in hopes of a little bit of the season would be salvaged.”

18-year-old former Atlantic City High School student and incoming Stockton University freshman Hinah Sher, who took Naval Science 2, which is NJROTC, also shared her experience: “The quarantine canceled our AMI, Change of Command Ceremony, competitions, and our Military Ball.

I was a Bravo Company Chief and was looking forward to being inspected and marching with

my fellow cadets. Now as a senior I won’t be able to experience Prom, Military Ball, the Change of Command Ceremony, and AMI.” School clubs faced a similar fate as 19-yearold former Ocean City High School student and incoming ACCC freshman Gabby Hart explained that “NHS didn’t really do anything, but FCA had Zoom meetings every week with guest speakers and giveaways.”

The switch to online learning also affected underclassmen. 18-year-old incoming Mainland Regional High School senior Danielle Bruning shared her thoughts on this: “I was happy about the SATs being canceled because this gave me more time to prepare. The pandemic has me relaxed about the SATs because now more schools will go testoptional, and I don’t believe that one test grade can determine your academic potential.”

College students, especially seniors, faced changes too. When I interviewed 22-year-old Brigantine resident and Penn State alumni, Louis Esposito, he shared his insight: “When I first heard the school was going to be online, I was surprised because I’ve never seen a college shut down before.

Teachers tried to be as accessible as possible and were very understanding. I couldn’t have inperson graduation; however, Penn State had a virtual commencement with pre-made videos from speakers and digital diplomas.”

School faculty member’s routines changed as well. Cydnee Phoenix, Dean of Community of Engagement, spoke on behalf of Principle Academy in EHT: “Before COVID we were participating in a lot of community outreach events. And so of course, after COVID those community activities were canceled. So, we had to creatively come up with ways to still connect with our target audience.

One way was to have the P.A.C. team stay in contact through the family support services and Zoom meetings. We also have instructional coaches, and what we call intensive teachers. A lot of the things that we did virtually mirrored what we did when we were on campus physically. With Zoom, you have breakout rooms that could be used if a student needed extra support in the classroom. Our schools have proved that we were resilient. We were

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HEALTH WATCH

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tenacious and we persevered in an unprecedented time.”

Although this pandemic is confusing, many positives came out of it. For instance, many became more productive. 18-year-old former Ocean City High School student and incoming University of Valley Forge freshman Grace Sando described what she did to keep busy, “I started working out more, I had more time to go outside, and I began doing crafts since I really like painting.

I also pursued my hobbies more often as online school was shorter.

Furthermore, with three additional months at home, I got to spend more time with my loved ones before I leave for college.”

Another positive aspect is that schools supported their seniors.

18-year-old former Holy Spirit High School student and incoming TCNJ freshman Michelle Muskett told me that: “The HSHS class of 2020 had virtual drive-thru graduation. The school put out Class of 2020 banners on everyone’s lawns and posted the senior class’s pictures. They’re also planning to have another celebration for the class of 2020 during Thanksgiving break.”

I personally experienced the support shown by Ocean City High School. I felt cared about when teachers sent me care packages that contained candy and kind notes.

Also, it was nice to see everyone receive recognition for their hard work in our virtual scholarship ceremony. Furthermore, graduation was in-person and from a distance, so I was able to see all of my friends and teachers again.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an interesting ride. Although it had downs, it had ups as well.

Whenever I feel upset during these unprecedented times, I remember that I am not alone. As all of the rainbow signs I see everywhere say, we are all in this together. n

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LifeStyle Wellness

FAMILY CONNECTIONS How residents are staying in touch now more than ever.

By Felicia L. Niven

T

hey’re known as “the singing Colgan’s.” It doesn’t matter where they are; the Colgan family loves to get together and sing. That’s why it wasn’t a surprise that 94-year-old Pat Colgan began to serenade her daughter in the courtyard at Seashore Gardens Living Center (SGLC).

It was the first time the two had visited in more than three months. Pat sat under a tent, shaded from the sun while her daughter stood at the courtyard gate. The summer day formed a beautiful backdrop for the impromptu concert.

The singing was a joyful expression of both family and love.

“My mother communicates really well through song,” said Barbara Colgan Makoski.

“She started with ‘I Love You a Bushel and a Peck,’ and I joined in. She sang it to me and I sang it to Seashore Gardens resident Florence has her. She was so happy to a socially distanced see me. We cried because courtyard visit with we were both so happy.” her son Ted. “COVID-19 has changed the everyday lives of all of us at SGLC,” said Assistant Administrator Michelle Matino. “Relationships are what bring joy and meaning to our lives. Since our doors closed to visitation in March, we have taken an all-hands-on-deck approach to make sure families are staying connected throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

We understand that keeping connected with loved ones is important for the well-being of our residents now more than ever.”

The courtyard visits help to foster family connections safely with the highly vulnerable population at SGLC. Notably, the Home has no resident COVID-19 cases as of the time of publication. One reason is that CDC guidelines are followed to the letter. Masks are mandated for both visitors and staff and encouraged if tolerable for residents. “We are sensitive to the fact that it may be medically difficult for some of our residents and so we

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constantly monitor them,” said Social Worker Katrina Schnepp, CSW, CDP. “But as long as we’re wearing our masks, and the families are wearing their masks, the residents are protected.”

The masks are a small concession to make to keep residents safe. In that spirit, Brenda Fishman brought one with their high school logo for her sister, Shirley Tepper.

“We used to go out almost weekly for lunch,” said Brenda. “I wish this could be different but I have nothing but positive things to say about how SGLC is handling the pandemic.”

Over the past few months, Brenda was navigating her own serious challenges. Her daughter, on hospice, tragically passed during this time. Then Brenda was diagnosed with breast cancer. “Shirley is my older sister,” said Brenda. “Her mantra was, ‘don’t worry about me; I’m fine.’ It was a comfort to me to know that she was in a place where the staff genuinely cared. My sister doesn’t do technology but she allowed (staff member) Sharon D’Angio to stream the funeral service for her on the IN2L computer. She brought it into her room and closed the door so that she could have some privacy. It was truly lovely to know that someone cared enough to do that for my sister.”

Regina Moschik and her sisters used to visit their mom, Ingrid, five times a week. “I would bring her dill pickles; she’s German and she loves her gherkins,” said Regina.

But when the pandemic started, Regina had to shift her own focus to her job Est. 1916

as a senior living administrator.

“I was at work seven days a week trying to get through it. I didn’t have to worry about my mother.

Once we started the FaceTime calls, it was really good. I could see that she was happy.” The courtyard visit was emotional for Regina and her sister. “It was hard to see her and not touch her,” she confessed. “You have a limited time to talk. But I could tell that the staff really know her well and they love her. That helped.”

In addition to in-person visits, SGLC has utilized technology to keep families connected. Thanks to the June M. Cohen Family Connection Fund, the home is now equipped with WiFi, iPads, and a large screen IN2L computer.

“We have utilized FaceTime, ZOOM, and phone calls as a means of residents spending time with their loved ones while they cannot do so in person,” said Michelle Matino. “Safety and wellness are our priorities. We also send out weekly updates on what is going on in the Home. We feel this has helped keep everyone involved and active in the SGLC community.”

But the courtyard visits have a special place in everyone’s heart, despite the difficulties of wearing masks and maintaining social distance. “To see the joy on everyone’s faces during these visits validates all we do at SGLC,” said Matino. “While COVID-19 has challenged us, it has also helped us grow closer as a community.

We appreciate everyone’s support, kindness, and generosity during this time as we continue to care for our residents. We look forward to the day our doors open again for visitation but until then we will continue to do all we can to stay connected.” n

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LifeStyle On Wheels

2020 Mercedes-AMG S 63 Cabriolet

Super Luxury Power 30

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Y

From luxurious to outright decadent, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class may be just the reward you’re looking for.

By Elaine Rose

ou’re at the top of your game, and your ride should reflect it. And if you’re like many of us, working from home for several months has saved you a bundle in commuting costs, power lunches, gourmet dinners, and vacations.

A new set of wheels from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class may be the reward you’re looking for. The top of the Mercedes line — and its flagship — several experts rank the S-Class Number One among super-luxury vehicle offerings. It’s easy to see why.

“The S-Class has it all: an interior that could please a sultan, performance to please a hot shoe, and a road presence that is unmistakably majestic,” states a Car and Driver review.

“This super luxury car is one of the most opulent vehicles you can buy, with seats fit for a monarch, superlative materials, and a list of features that few cars can match,” Bryan Siwik wrote for U.S. News & World Report. You would have to upgrade to a Rolls Royce or a Bentley to experience such luxurious accommodations in another car.

The S-Class has seven models, with base prices from $94,450 to $173,000. All seat five adults comfortably, except for the Coupe and Cabriolet convertible, which hold four. Even rear-seat passengers will feel like they are relaxing on a living-room sofa.

The S-Class is in its sixth generation, which was introduced in 2014. A redesign is scheduled for the 2021 model year.

All models offer nine-speed 9G-TRONIC transmission, with shift paddles on the steering wheel to offer the driver more control.

All come with rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is optional with all models and standard on the AMG S 63. Fuel economy varies by model, but reviewers say it is quite good for a vehicle that weighs more than two tons. The entire line is manufactured in Germany.

Every S-Class car features an infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens in the front of the cabin. The system is compatible

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LIFESTYLE ON WHEELS

Newly designed grill

Leather-lidded center console embossed with the AMG company logo

Steering wheel with shift paddles

Sporty interior with Nappa leather unholstery

with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The standard audio is a thirteenspeaker Burmester surround-sound system. For an additional cost, you can add touch screens for the rear seats or a 26-speaker sound system.

The seven models range from the luxurious to the outright decadent.

• The S 450 is the base model, with a starting MSRP of $92,450. It is powered by a 3.0-liter, V6 Biturbo engine that emits 362 horsepower and goes from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds.

• The S 560 sedan starts at $105,450 and runs on a 463-horsepower, 4.0-liter eight-cylinder Biturbo engine. It can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 4.6 seconds.

• The 560e is a hybrid, with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and 469 horsepower. It has a plug-in electric component and can go up to 25 miles on an electric charge alone. The MSRP starts at $107,950.

• The AMG S 63 has a base price of $151,600 and is equipped with a handcrafted 4.0-liter Biturbo engine with 603 horsepower and a 0-to-60 time of 3.5 seconds. It has a sport suspension, a race driving mode, Nappa leather upholstery, and other sporty features.

• The S-Class Coupe is a four-seater and starts at $131,150. It is powered by a handcrafted 436-horsepower 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo engine and does 0 to 60 in 3.4 seconds.

• Yes, you can get an S-Class convertible. The Cabriolet has a base price of $138,600. It has the 636-horsepower, V8 Biturbo engine that takes it to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. For even more power, go with the AMG S 63 Cabriolet starting at $183,500 • At the top of the S-Class lineup is the Maybach, with a base price of $173,000. The Maybach is a “private limousine,” as one reviewer called it, and is meant for the owner to sit in the rear with every imaginable gizmo and creature comfort while a chauffeur deals with the traffic.

The sedans have 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which reviewers say is enough to hold several good-size suitcases. The rear seats do not fold down, so if you need more space than that, you’re out of luck. The coupes have 10.4 cubic feet of trunk space, and the trunk of the convertible has 12.4 cubic feet of space with the roof on, and a measly 6.9 cubic feet with the roof down.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have not crash-tested the S-Class, probably because they have no desire to buy a $100,000-plus car just to destroy it. But the S-Class is a huge vehicle and comes with enough safety features to make the driver and passengers feel secure.

As to the need for repairs, J.D. Power gives the S-Class a somewhat better-than-average reliability rating. Consumer Reports lists the reliability as well below average but gives the S-Class an almost perfect score for handling on the road.

The S-Class is being redesigned for the seventh generation to hit the market this fall. Reviewers who got a sneak peek of the 2021 models say it will have a more modern design both inside and out. Mercedes-Benz recently announced that the touch screen will increase to 12.8 inches and allow the driver to have a 3D view. Up to three screens will be available for the rear-seat passengers. The 2021 models will have enhanced safety and artificial intelligence features, while the number of buttons needed to work the controls will be reduced.

So now comes the big dilemma. Do you take the tried-and-true 2020 models or wait for the newer and more high-tech version? Sorry, but you have to make that choice for yourself. n

LifeStyle Travel

HAWAIIAN DREAMS An adventure to one of the most exotic places in America.

By Molly Golubcow

Waikiki Beach

LIFESTYLE TRAVEL

I Banzai Pipeline wave break on Oahu North Shore

Aerial view of Diamond head in Oahu

An endangered Hawaiian green sea turtle

t’s more than colorful flower leis around your neck or a perfect photo-op sunset for a Magnum PI episode. It’s more than tasty luaus with grass skirt traditional dancers.

It’s more than being the youngest state to join the US (1959) and the only state not located in North America.

It’s Hawaii — one of the most exotic places on Earth. An archipelago of eight islands in the heart of the Pacific Ocean that attract millions of tourists each year to taste and feel her natural beauty, history, and culture.

Author Paul Theroux describes Hawaii as “…not a state of mind, but a state of grace.” Each island is unique and offers a special something to behold like the botanical wonders of Kuai to the black, red, and white sand beaches of Maui. Let’s take a look at two of Hawaii’s most visited islands — Hawaii and Oahu.

Hawaii, the “Big Island” Faithfully living up to its name, the Big Island bursts with things to do and see ranging from beaches and snorkeling to volcanoes and more.

On this one piece of land, you can travel through eight different climate zones — from the tropics to polar tundra. For example, the East side of the island, typically wetter and more tropical, offers several gorgeous botanical wonders like the 20-acre Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden — a bio reserve valley containing over 2,000 species with nature trails that take you through rain forests, beautiful waterfalls, and Pacific Ocean landscapes.

In addition to the island’s stunning flora, you cannot say you have been to Hawaii without visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here you can spend an entire day or more hiking and sightseeing through amazing geological wonders like the massive Thurston Lava Tube and overlooking the Halema‘uma‘u

Waikiki Beach in Honolulu Crater, home to Pele, the ancient Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Also, you can traverse the one-mile boardwalk encircling the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve — the largest concentration of ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs in Polynesia.

If you are more of a beach bunny than a volcano hunter, Hawaii blesses you with sun and surf options like Hapuna Beach — soft, white sand and crystal blue waters. On the southeastern coast, go barefoot on Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach — created from flaming lava that once flowed into the ocean. While you are there, keep a lookout for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles who love to bask on the onyx beaches as much as the tourists do. In addition to lounging under the sun, the Big Island also offers a myriad of water sports and activities like stand-up paddleboarding, night snorkeling with manta rays, kayaking with dolphins, and deep-sea fishing.

Twin Falls Maui Waterfall

LOCAL TASTE: Hawaiian poke — diced raw Yellowfin tuna and sea salt seasoned in a bowl of soy sauce, inamona (roasted kukui nut), sesame oil, seaweed, and chili pepper.

FUN FACT: Are you a coffee connoisseur? The Big Island is home to the United States’ only homegrown coffee — seven different coffee-growing regions including Kona.

Oahu, the “Heart of Hawaii” Of all the islands, Oahu is full of contrasting characteristics. In Honolulu, the state capital, you will find modern, towering skyscrapers touting many nightclubs, shopping malls, and fine dining juxtaposed to ancient traditions like the honi ihu nose greeting and shanty-towns populated by shaggy surfer dudes and dudettes.

Haleakala volcano in Maui

Waimea Bay jump rock

HSPWB

HANKIN SANDMAN PALLADINO WEINTROB & BELL

Main Office Atlantic City | (609) 344-5161 Cape May Court House Office | (609) 465-5557 New York Office | (212) 335-2255

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Local author and N.J. Lifestyle magazine writer, Molly Golubcow, shares stories that are 100% Atlantic City!

The Hotel on St. James Place: Growing up in Atlantic City between the Boardwalk and the Holocaust tells incredible tales about her parents and the hotel they ran in the 1970s.

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One of the biggest tourist attractions on the island is the Polynesian Cultural Center. Visitors can experience Hawaii and its heritage on over 42 glorious acres on Oahu’s North Shore — canoe tours, a film detailing the history of Hawaii, and shopping options extraordinaire for Polynesian crafts, clothes, and jewelry. You can also enjoy “cutting” edge performances

by Samoan fire knife dancers — based on an ancient tradition displaying a warrior’s strength and battle skills.

Whether by land, sea, or air — the island offers sightseeing adventures and activities for all ages and interests. An easy and convenient way to see Oahu is by one of the trolley tours. For example, the panoramic coastline trolley option visits Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, and stunning beaches. Other tours include a trip to view Diamond Head — a saucershaped crater formed over 400,000

LIFESTYLE TRAVEL

years ago during a single volcanic eruption. Also, other tours highlight cultural and historical landmarks like Iolani Palace — the only royal palace located in the United States.

To see the island at your own pace, cycling tours allow independent exploring to Oahu signature places like Manoa Falls, Mount Tantalus, Chinatown, Historic Honolulu, and Diamond Head. If you prefer more of an adrenalin rush while sightseeing in Hawaii, try the aerial views while zip-lining above it all or spend some time beneath the water on an up close and personal shark dive.

Although a sobering experience, spending time at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii’s most visited destination, is a must. Each year, over 1.8 million visitors come to pay their respect to the 2,335 servicemen who died during the attack.

A guided tour is suggested to ensure that you get complete access to all the sights and memorials.

Whether you are a World War II history buff or not, you will want to experience Pearl Harbor and learn why President Roosevelt labeled December 7, 1941, as a “day that will live in infamy.” There are several tours available depending on your time constraints ranging from 3 – 13 hours. Decide before you arrive in Hawaii what areas you want to see including the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, Bowfin Submarine, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

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LOCAL TASTE: Bite into some Haupia — a Hawaiian dessert traditionally made with sweet coconut milk and ground pia (Polynesian arrowroot).

FUN FACT: The emerald cliffs of Kualoa Ranch on Oahu were used to film scenes in several Jurassic Park movies. n

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LifeStyle Art

“Harriet Tubman-The Journey to Freedom” sculpture Photo courtesy of Tubman Museum

A LIVING MUSEUM An African American Historic Site in Cape May, N.J. centrally locates the new Harriet Tubman Museum.

By Michael Cagno

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Franklin Street School

Photo by Michael Cagno

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E Tubman sculpture being transported Photo courtesy of Tubman Museum

Tubman sculpture ready to enter the Museum Photo courtesy of Tubman Museum

Museum staff beside the Tubman sculpture Photo courtesy of Tubman Museum

arlier this year the Smithsonian Magazine published a list of the top ten museums opening in 2020 around the globe.

Examples included the muchanticipated Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, The Museum of the Future in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and the Harriet Tubman Museum in Cape May, New Jersey. Yes, our Cape May! Why? Because of the significant contributions by African Americans, which has almost been forgotten, to this historic town.

Beginning with the Franklin Street School, built as a segregated school and used from 1928-1948 for black elementary students. Designated by the State of New Jersey as an African American Historic Site, the City of Cape May has been putting together a plan for a shared services agreement with the county and its Library Commission to preserve the building and its history. Almost directly across the street from the school is the Allen A.M.E. Church. Built in 1888, the church provided services for members of the black community.

The church unfortunately suffered an electrical fire in 2018, which caused catastrophic damage, but efforts are now underway to preserve the structure.

Further down on the corner of Lafayette and Franklin Streets is the historic yellow clapboard summer home of Stephen Smith. Born in 1797, Smith was an extraordinary man; a freed slave, abolitionist, industrialist, and philanthropist who played an instrumental role in the Underground Railroad. Stephen Smith was said to be the wealthiest Black American in the country during his lifetime. “I look forward

to the development of a strategic Church, which owns the building owned businesses at its peak.” fundraising plan to revitalize and home, has become a catalyst Museum Board President, Robert the building,” says Bernadette for telling the story of the African Mullock, calls it a “living Museum.”

Matthews, newly designated Board American community in Cape May. During the mid-19th century, Chair for The Stephen Smith House.

Like Atlantic City, the black labor the resort of Cape May attracted A neighboring home to the Smith was key for early success in the plantation owners from both the House was the Banneker House resort town of Cape May. According north and south, abolitionists, and which at one time was Underground Railroad Centrally located in this historical leaders from Philadelphia. the only seaside resort for blacks.

May played a pivotal African American community will be Cape Centrally located in this role in the Underground the new Harriet Tubman Museum. Railroad. According to the historical African American community will be the Museum, Harriet Tubman new Harriet Tubman Museum. The to Museum board member and lived in Cape May in the early pre-Victorian era building, once church liaison, Lynda Towns, “in the 1850s, working to help fund her owned by Philadelphia Quaker and 1920s African Americans accounted missions to guide enslaved people businessman George Howell, has for almost 30 percent of Cape May’s to freedom. After her initial journeys sat vacant for over 30 years. The population compared to about 3 conducting freedom seekers to neighboring Macedonia Baptist percent today. There were 60 blackCanada, her friend and abolitionist

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leader Franklin Sanborn wrote, “She returned to the states, and as usual earned money by working in hotels and for families as a cook. From Cape May, in the fall of 1852, she went back once more to Maryland, and brought away nine more fugitives.” The New Jersey Historical Commission says she spent two other summers in Cape May. Regarding the design of the Museum, upon entrance on the first floor to the right will be the Legacy Room. Ms. Towns describes it as a space to re-discover the black community history exhibiting photographs and a timeline celebrating the past while inspiring how all can do better. On the left side of the first floor will be a gallery exhibiting the collection of Reverend Robert Davis, longtime pastor of the Macedonia Baptist Church, who died Dec. 26, 2015.

What makes this Museum so exciting, according to the Museum’s Executive Director Cynthia Mullock, is how it has become a community project. People from all walks of life and backgrounds coming together as a family. Though it is a small Museum at only 1600 square feet, it plans to tell big stories.

One of those stories will be the reconstruction of Cape May after a major storm in the early 1960s that left much of the resort in shambles.

Renewed interest in saving the Victorian-era homes used “urban renewal” to reestablish its grand resort stature. At the expense of the black population, this financial removal almost erased African American history in Cape May. As a result, the exiled created the community of Whitesboro, north of Cape May. Both Lynda and Cynthia hope the Museum will not only celebrate

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its robust history but attract African Americans to buy homes and open businesses in Cape May. Given such early success, the Museum wouldn’t be where it is today without the community. It is amazing how people from diverse backgrounds are giving money and time to develop an environment that provides a space to listen to forgotten voices. Both the local and county government have been extremely supportive of this project and understand its cultural and historical significance.

A larger than life-sized bronze sculpture was the first official work of art to enter the Museum this past June. The sculpture of Tubman leading a slave girl to freedom, by award-winning sculptor, Wesley Wofford. “Harriet Tubman — The Journey to Freedom” celebrates the hero of social justice,” says Cynthia Mullock. As beautifully described by the National Sculpture Society, “Tubman, confidently leads a slave girl on The Underground Railroad to freedom, leans into the wind, bracing herself against the elements. Her eyes are cut formidably up, anticipating the next part of the journey. The wind illustrates the peril of the journey and is a metaphor for the intense opposition Tubman faced.” Earlier this June the Museum celebrated a virtual opening on Juneteenth, which was planned two years earlier. The holiday commemorates the end of slavery.

“Social progress does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability. It comes only through persistent work and the tireless efforts of dedicated individuals.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Nonviolence and Racial Justice, delivered in Cape May, N.J. on June 27, 1958. n

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MICHAEL A. GOLOFF Certified Public Accountant 609-350-6958 1616 Pacific Avenue, Suite 407 Atlantic City, NJ 08401 njlifestyleonline.com

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LifeStyle Entertainment

When A Pandemic Pulls the Plug Borgata Music Box

Atlantic City Air Show

How COVID-19 rocked our local world of media and entertainment.

By David Spatz

F

or the first time in my life, I was at a loss for words.

Speechless. Incapable of uttering a sound, a noise, even forming a one-syllable word. All I could seem to do was muster a 21st Century social media reaction to this jarring observation that had suddenly popped into that part of my brain where I usually do my writing.

I was truly left SMH (ask your kids/grandkids;

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they know what it means).

In print, on television, and radio, I’ve been a professional journalist for more than 45 years.

During all those years and through tens of thousands of assignments and stories, this had never happened. I don’t think it’s something to which I ever gave a second thought, that’s how automatic it had become over nearly five decades.

It wasn’t something so overwhelming I’ll never forget where I was or what I was doing when the news arrived, although it may have come close. I don’t remember the exact day or time or even the month that the mental light bulb went off and it hit me between the eyes like a 2-by-4.

If I had to guess, it was probably somewhere in early-to-mid April, and most likely on a Monday morning, because this earth-shattering discovery was part of my beginning-of-the-work-week ritual.

When I was ready to begin the workday, the first thing I did was something I’ve done at the start of every day since I took this job: I automatically opened my phone calendar. (Before the digital age, it was a large black “daily planner.”)

That calendar, whether it was the hard-copy planner of then or the iPhone of today, is my entire life. Today, I’m hooked on a device that fits in my hand and has a logo of apple missing a bite.

The calendar listed all the things for which I was responsible that day and beyond.

It had the names of guests or topics for the daily radio show, and it also had something that had been a part of my life for 47 years: my future writing assignments, some for The Press, others for magazines, and specialty entertainment publications. Some stories had deadlines of months in the future; the others had daily or weekly deadlines.

I already knew not to look for At The Shore or Atlantic City Weekly assignments.

At The Shore is the weekend entertainment section I helped create for The Press of Atlantic City 30 years ago — and where I may (or may not) still be a columnist.

When the casinos shut down, with them went the ads for shows and entertainment programs that were often the basis for my columns and features. With the shows canceled, there was no point writing about them; the purpose of the columns, after all, is to drum up business for the

acts and the casinos.

Atlantic City Weekly is also an entertainment section produced by The Press, just with different content, demographics, and method of distribution.

Like most businesses, The Press went into crisis mode when the COVID-19 disease began to spread through the state and then filtered down to our region. The paper had no choice but to furlough some of its workers, and some of them were those who produced At The Shore and Atlantic City Weekly.

Although I’m no longer on the staff of The Press — I did that for 23 years beginning in 1974 — I’m still a freelance contributor, mostly columns or stories that focused on casino acts.

I’ve been doing that literally since Day One of the casino era in 1978, and I haven’t stopped doing it since. Rare was the week I’d miss a column, and if I did it was probably because I was on vacation.

Even after 12 hours of heart surgery a few years ago that sidelined me for 27 days, I worked ahead and had a month’s worth of columns written and TV shows produced, all of it submitted long before the surgeon made the midline incision and split me open like a spatchcocked chicken.

Ever since the emergence of the Internet and its evolution as the fastest source for news and information, newspapers have been struggling. To avoid shutting down, some papers have laid off Pulitzer Prize-winning reporters; others eliminated complete sections of their papers and the people who produced them.

The Press was no different. It’s had several rounds of layoffs and buyouts of reporters and editors who had 10, 20, 30, or more years of experience in that paper.

About seven years ago, The Press was sold by the family that owned it since 1951 to one of the world’s wealthiest men, Warren Buffett, who bought The Press through the BH Media Group, a Berkshire Hathaway company that owned more than 100 daily and weekly newspapers and other print products.

Then, earlier this year, Buffett’s company sold The Press and his entire BH Media Group to Lee Enterprises, a company that had been running the BH Media Group’s papers and specializes in acquiring small-market newspapers to make them

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LIFESTYLE ENTERTAINMENT

Atlantic City Air Show

Phish

profitable.

As the COVID-19 pandemic began sweeping the planet and people began getting sick by the millions and dying by the hundreds of thousands, Lee and The Press made the changes that had to be made to keep The Press alive.

By that time, my At The Shore columns had been cut from weekly to bimonthly to we’ll-let-youknow-when-we-have-something-for-you.

After almost 47 years, beginning as a cub reporter, then rising to become a widely-read and syndicated entertainment columnist and then an Emmy Award-winning television host and producer, my writing career — or what little was left of it — had been reduced to don’t-call-us-we’llcall-you.

I began looking for freelance assignments from several magazines and seasonal publications for which I’ve long been a contributing entertainment and feature writer.

Nobody home.

No assignments waiting in the wings, nothing out there in the near or distant future, either. The casinos had been closed by Gov. Phil Murphy since 8 p.m. March 16. Since the majority of my writing was covering casino entertainment, it isn’t easy writing about something that, for the foreseeable future, doesn’t exist.

For the first time in my career, I had no idea where — or even if — there would be a next writing assignment; it had been four months since my byline last appeared anywhere.

There were days during my early years as a reporter at The Press where three assignments and stories a day was common; now here I was with nothing in print for four months and nothing for

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the foreseeable future.

Casinos, which reopened July 2 and are hopefully still open today, began inquiring about acts for the future, but, for obvious reasons, they couldn’t commit to actual dates.

The stars, I figured, probably had enough bucks in the bank to weather the financial storm. Some may have done well and socked away enough to help out their musicians, lighting, and sound techs, and other members of their support teams, just as some major corporations did during the early months of the pandemic.

Then I realized everyone in the entertainment business was being affected by this once-in-alifetime medical crisis.

The performers who work the casino lounges — having already been scaled back from big bands to one or two people using pre-recorded instrumental tracks — were probably hit the hardest.

Some of the lounge acts were left to come up with creative ways to keep their names alive and their skills sharp.

If you hadn’t yet used the Zoom app before COVID-19, chances are you have by now. If you haven’t, learn. It’s very easy, it’s almost completely intuitive and for large social gatherings, it puts things like Facetime and Skype to shame. Lots of great entertainment has been Zoom’d into peoples’ homes.

Live shows are still live shows, only during the era of the pandemic, the performer is singing or playing an instrument or telling jokes from their socially-distant venue (usually their homes) and people watching them on their tablets or laptops or even on their big-screen TVs. I can’t “conclude” this story quite yet, because that’s not my job. Most scientific experts will tell you the COVID-19 coronavirus will write the ending, which is still so far down the tracks I can’t even see the light or hear the train whistle.

And because of the deadlines I mentioned

Boz Scaggs earlier, this story was prepared in early July for publication in September.

A lot could have happened between the time you’re reading this and the day I wrote it.

Hopefully, we’ve got the virus on the run, a vaccine waiting in the wings, and popular entertainers who will feel comfortable enough working in front of a large crowd.

Remember, just like many of you, while they miss working or seeing friends and family, they’re still psychologically not ready to walk onto a stage in front of 100 or more people, masks or no masks.

When will I feel comfortable going to a show in a big room like Boardwalk Hall, Hard Rock Live, or Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Hotel?

Truth also is told, I’m in several high-risk categories for COVID-19. So, as I write this in early July, I’m still not quite showroom-ready yet.

There is one show that will make me leave my mask at home, ditch the hand sanitizer, and drop all my efforts to keep the virus at bay.

If someone books a reunion concert by the original Beatles, I’m there. n

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LifeStyle Leaders

Legally Bond “Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence.”

—John Adams

By Molly Golubcow

D

ue to the overwhelming popularity of the Broadway show, Alexander Hamilton has been getting lots of attention these days. However, Colin Bell, a local attorney and someone who knows his way around politics and law, singles out John Adams, second president of the United States, as his legal role model.

In court, Adams defended British soldiers accused in the Boston Massacre. He chose to legally represent the unsympathetic men only because he believes in the right to counsel and a fair trial for all — facts over emotion. Bell

The law offices of Hankin Sandman Palladino Weintrob & Bell Colin Bell

explains why Adams’ fervent defense of our laws influenced him, “That is something I try to keep in mind in both the law and politics. We shouldn’t be trying to change people’s minds about facts, facts are facts. Our focus should be arguing what we should be doing in light of those facts.”

After receiving a political science degree from American University, Bell graduated cum laude from Washington College of Law. Always attracted to the courtroom environment, Bell came back to his South Jersey roots and started his career as Assistant Atlantic County Prosecutor assigned to Grand Jury and Trial Sections. After a few years in that position, he transitioned into private practice and became a partner with the Hankin Sandman Palladino Weintrob & Bell group — a firm specializing in what Bell calls “the ever-changing factual and legal issues found in construction litigation.” In addition to the type of law he now practices, Bell describes why he chose and stays with the firm, “I now really enjoy a group of lawyers that I fit in with, that I respected, and that I could learn from.”

As did John Adams, Bell has thrown his hat into the political arena several times. Having grown up in Atlantic County, the life-long Democrat, tends to hold moderate political views and partisanship. Bell explains, “While I am, and have always been a Democrat, at the local level the most important issues in

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Helping individuals & families grow since 2009

Atlantic County — developing and diversifying the economy, protecting and supporting the gaming industry, and protecting our environmental and agricultural resources transcend party lines, for the most part.”

Bell officially entered the political world in 2000 as a volunteer for former New Jersey Senator Bill Bradley’s presidential campaign. While working at the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee in Washington, DC, and attending the 2000 Democratic National Convention, Bell realized his call to politically serve the people of South Jersey.

After leaving the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s office in 2008, Bell was elected as Atlantic County Freeholder where he supported programs to help the area recover from Hurricane Sandy. Also, he worked to assist local veterans to find homes and jobs. After two years in the Freeholder position, Bell served as deputy vice-chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee.

With the untimely death of Senator Whelan in 2017, Bell was selected to finish out the term for someone he considered “the most earnest elected official I have encountered.” The task was difficult and personal since Whelan had been a political mentor to Bell for many years. He explains how important it was to take over Whelan’s seat, “As I was completing his term in office, I felt an obligation to try to complete the work that he had started that legislative session. I was able to follow through to get some of his Atlantic City-related bills passed.” Bell also added some of his own programs during his term in office including providing more assistance to homeless veterans and supporting Stockton University.”

While in political positions, Bell focused on local issues in Atlantic County — ranging from gaming to environmental issues. In comparison to North Jersey, Bell explains how South Jersey is more of a “small town” and close-knit environment.

“As a lawyer, freeholder, and state senator, I think that always informed my interactions with other people. You have to be tough and aggressive sometimes in the law and politics, but you try to do it respectfully” If Bell had a magic political wand, he would use it to bring more business diversity to South Jersey — especially in an industry other than gaming. Bell explains, “I think we are seeing progress being made in the education sector with the expansion of Stockton into Atlantic City and the long-delayed aviation-related sector projects finally looking like they will be making real progress shortly.” He also thinks the area needs to take advantage of agritourism opportunities to help the more rural economy in western Atlantic County.

Whether in a courtroom or the Senate floor, Colin Bell is a busy and focused individual. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Jewish Family Service of Atlantic and Cape May County. Previously, he served on boards for the Boys and Girls Club as well as the Stockton Holocaust Resource Center.

When he’s not in the midst of a trial or political pursuit, Bell spends as much time as he can on the beach in Margate, New Jersey with his wife and two children. Where else in the world would a family born with South Jersey sand between their toes possibly be? n

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Events

9/9 > Whiskey Wednesdays Passion Vines, Somers Point 5:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.

Every Wednesday passionvines.com

9/11 > Irish Open - Friendly Sons of Patrick golf fundraiser McCullough’s Emerald Golf, EHT 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. facebook.com/FriendlySonsAC/ 9/12 > FACES Picnic & Ohana Heroes Walk Estelle Manor Nature Park, Mays Landing 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. barbhaak@faces4autism.org 9/19 & 9/20 > SJ Wine & Food Festival Lake Lenape Park East, Mays Landing 12:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. sjwinefest.com 9/24 > The Jersey Shore Medium Linda Shields Somers Point Fire Company #2 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. thejerseyshoremedium.com

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10/3 > ‘Wild Thang’ 20 Boardwalk Car Show Schellenger Avenue, Wildwood 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. wildwoodsnj.com 10/3 > Run-4-the-Animals 5K Laguna Grill, Brigantine 7:45 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. mmsc.org

10/17 & 10/18 > Atlantic City Marathon Remotely Location: Anywhere 9:00 a.m. Sat. & 8:00 a.m. Sun. acraceseries.com

10/3 & 10/4 > Smithville’s Oktoberfest Historic Smithville Village 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. historicsmithville.com

10/18 & 10/19 > Ron Jaworski’s Celebrity Golf Challenge Harrah’s & Blue Heron Pines jawscelebritygolf.com

10/5 > Holy Spirit High School Open House Holy Spirit High School 7:00 p.m. holyspirithighschool.com

10/24 > Atlantic City Ballet Presents Dracula Circus Maximus Theater, Caesars Atlantic City 7:00 p.m. acballet.org

10/9 > An Evening with Cher, Elton John, Bocelli, Streisand & More Kathedral Event Center, Hammonton Doors 7:00 p.m. / Show 8:00 p.m. kathedral.com

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LifeStyle Social

See more event photos at facebook.com/NJlifestyleMag.

Lucy The Elephant Turns 139!

In honor of Lucy’s 139th birthday along with the 50th Anniversary of “the Great Move”, a special ceremony was held at Lucy the Elephant on the soon-to-be-named “LUCY PLAZA”. Lucy was also open for guests to tour.

Photos by Don Kravitz

Live Work Play AC Mixer at the Wonder Bar

The Wonder Bar in Atlantic City was host to Live Work Play AC this past July. Guests came out for food, drinks, and socializing while overlooking the water from the outdoor deck.

Chaine des Rotisseurs Officers Gather

The Atlantic City chapter of the Chaine des Rotisseurs gathered for an officer’s meeting at new Bailli member Jeff Vasser’s house. Members enjoyed delicious food and wine.

Photos submitted

Annual Sunset Cruise

The Greater Atlantic City Concierge Association’s Annual Sunset cruise on AC Cruises headed out of Gardner’s Basin in Atlantic City this past July.

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Photos submitted

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Sumbit your photos to njlifestylemagazine@gmail.com.

Hard Rock Reopens While Staying ‘Safe + Sound’

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino reopened this past July under a Safe + Sound Program. The reopening kicked off a summer of fun with guests such as Prince, Cher, and Gene Simmons.

Month-long Empanada Contest

The Chelsea Economic Development Corporation in partnership with ACDevco kicked off its month-long Empanada Contest on Friday, July 31.

Participating eateries brought samples of their empanadas for a tasting event held under a big top in the parking lot at the iconic Knife & Fork.

Sky Garden Grill Opens at Ocean Casino Resort

Ocean Casino Resort celebrated the opening of Sky Garden Grill this past August. The brand-new rooftop-style dining experience is set on three acres of beautiful landscape. Guests were able to relax, dine, and drink outdoors while overlooking the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean.

Photos by Paul Dempsey

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LifeStyle Eats

Hammerbacher our house rustic, traditional sourdough Photo by Nick Valinote

Pass the Bread, Please “How can a nation be great if their bread tastes like Kleenex?”

—Julia Child

By Molly Golubcow

P

aris has baguettes, Jerusalem has pita, and Delhi has naan, but nothing compares to “Atlantic City” bread. You can see the 20-inch skinny bread in many South Jersey restaurants — perfectly sliced for dipping in oil or stuffed with cheesesteak or Italian cold cuts for sub sandwiches.

These baguette-shaped masterpieces, crisp outer crust and luscious inside, are not found anywhere else on earth — no exaggeration! The taste, smell, and texture make bread baked anywhere else a stale competitor — pun intended.

In addition to the traditional “Atlantic City” sub bread, other loaves and rolls, equally delicious, are “rising” all over the area. So, is it the local water? Is it the salt air? Is it psychological or nostalgic? Let’s talk to a few local experts to try to solve the age-old mystery: Why is bread in the Atlantic City area so unique (and delicious)?

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Rando Bakery — Atlantic City 609.345.6678 | randobakery.com For over 111 years, the Rando Family has been faithfully baking bread in its Ducktown location on Mississippi Avenue.

Whether twist rolls or baguettes, Rando breads have landed on many a family dinner table as well as popular restaurants — proudly feeding generations since 1909.

So, What’s the Secret?

Operations Manager, Anthony Rando, Jr., the fourth generation of Rando bakers, believes one of the many reasons their bread stands out is the “superiority of the ingredients they use.” Also, geographic location is a key factor. Rando explains, “Our bread can only be made here in Atlantic City because of the unique combination of the salt air and the highest quality water in the country.”

Back row, clockwise from left, Anthony Rando Sr., Anthony Rando Jr., Stephen Rando, Hailey Rando and Donna Rando Gracco Photo by Nick Valinote Patrick McKenna (left) and Frank Formica of Formica’s Bakery Photo by Nick Valinote

What’s in the Bread Basket?

During the summer season, Rando bakery produces and delivers over 8,000 products daily. According to Rando, their most popular item is the famous Atlantic City bread known world-wide. Also, the Twist Rolls — braided like a mini-challah and drizzled with sesame seeds — is another popular item. Rumor has it, Sinatra loved to make his cold cut sandwiches on a Rando Twist Roll when he was in town.

What’s on the Rise?

In addition to selling their baked goods in and around the South Jersey area, the bakery serves restaurants and sub shops from coast to coast with their par-bake line (as in partially baked). By shipping par-baked bread, Rando hopes

Hammerbacher Bakery owners Lauren and Paul Erbacher Photo by Nick Valinote

Famous Atlantic City bread fresh out of the oven at Formica’s Bakery Photo by Nick Valinote

Focaccia with beets and spelt from Hammerbacher Bakery Photo by Linda Taylor, Campe Studio

LIFESTYLE EATS

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to expand his reach to businesses across the country while still “…maintaining a reputation for providing exceptional quality and service to all of our loyal customers.”

Formica’s Bakery — Atlantic City 609.344.2732 | formicasbakery.com Although Frank Formica is officially retired from Formica’s Bakery, his firsthand knowledge and understanding of baking make him a local bread historian and consultant extraordinaire. Formica’s grandfather, who started baking in Atlantic City in 1927, always gave his grandson some sage advice about the bread business, “You need a strong back and a weak mind!”

So, What’s the Secret?

According to Formica, quality bread comes from science, not secrets. Formica adamantly explains, “Hands down — it’s the water in Atlantic City. We have the purest water in the United States because it’s sourced from a local aquafer.” When quality ingredients are mixed with the purity and softness of the local water, the result is a unique bread. Formica sums it up, “If it’s not made in Atlantic City, it’s not Atlantic City bread!”

What’s in the Bread Basket?

Formica’s most loved product is the traditional sub bread. In fact, during the summer season, the bakery typically produces 50,000-100,000 pieces of rolls and bread per day. Yes, per day! One of Formica’s famous sub bread fans, with butter for breakfast, was Sinatra — an equal opportunity Atlantic City bread lover.

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What’s on the Rise?

Formica’s Bakery has a new vision (AKA a dream) — freeze and distribute fully baked Atlantic City bread nationwide.

Patrick McKenna, the current President/ Owner, knows a thing or two about distributing food to a wide audience.

His other company, Taste of Italy Manufacturing, creates, freezes, and distributes a line of Italian appetizers.

McKenna talks about Formica’s bread and the need to please a wider audience,

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LIFESTYLE EATS “We receive phone calls and emails every week from people all over the country that grew up eating Formica’s famous AC bread, and want to know how they can get it.” McKenna plans to launch the frozen bread line in autumn 2020 which will make Formica’s bread fans, near and far, very happy.

Hammerbacher Bakery — Egg Harbor City thepeople@hammerbacherkitchen.com Tucked away on a small side street in Egg Harbor City, Hammerbacher produces small-craft baked goods — the selection changing day to day, and only available certain days each week. Whether an artisan bread or mouth-watering pie, bakers Lauren and Paul Erbacher fervently believe that “honest ingredients produce honest products.”

So, What’s the Secret?

According to Paul Erbacher, Hammerbacher’s bread is made from scratch and literally something they get their hands into — mixing and folding.

The ingredients and the baker result in a “magical combination.” Erbacher explains, “The secret comes from the skill of the baker creating the loaf. It’s a matter of paying attention to the dough and minding technique to coax as much flavor as possible from the wheat.”

What’s in the Bread Basket?

Hammerbacher’s bread options are dependent on the day and season.

However, a real crowd pleaser is the Milk & Butter loaf — adapted from a recipe handed down by Erbacher’s grandmother. Another specialty bread that Hammerbacher fans look for is the rustic, European style sourdough.

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What’s on the Rise?

Hammerbacher prides itself on being a community bakery — bread for the people and by the people. To date, the Erbachers have gone through about five tons of flour a year creating craft baked goods sold locally. Going forward, where do the Erbachers see their bread? “If there’s any place our bread deserves to be — it’s in the hands of our community.” n

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LifeStyle Wine

Wine Q & A

By Michael Bray

H

ello and welcome back! I hope you had an enjoyable summer season and took advantage of the outdoors, as well as the adaptive and delicious dining options offered by our talented restaurants located in Atlantic and Cape May Counties. We’ve got some great WINE Q+A this month. For those of you just tuning in, you can reach me at, Michael@passionvines.com. I welcome you to contact me with any wine-related questions and I will use this monthly column to answer them.

Q: Karen from Egg Harbor Township asks, “I drink a ton of California Cabernet. What other regions do you suggest that may be similar in style?”

California Cabernet Sauvignon is still wildly popular and a seemingly timeless wine that has a ton of appeal. We also understand that variety is the spice of life, and that getting to know some new grapes and regions is good for your senses to keep wine new and exciting. If you want to stick with the New World, Argentine Cabernet and Cabernet-Malbec blends give you the plush fruitiness you want, but with a flavor reminiscent of blueberry pie. Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon offers up more acidity than many California examples and the tannins are a little firmer, but the food versatility for the summer is off the charts; everything from grilled vegetables to turkey burgers to red meats are in play.

If you want to venture into the Old World, try a Touriga Nacional from Portugal, whose spicy black fruit and licorice profile will please a Cabernet fan in both flavors and on the wallet. Even better value can be the bold, meaty Monastrell of Southeastern Spain or Tempranillo grown in the hot south-central part of Spain, whose dried plum, blackberry, and tobacco notes can be incredibly satisfying. Full-bodied southern Italian reds made from Aglianico and Nero d’Avola offer great power and intensity; these are fantastic wines for the California Cab drinker to push the envelope a little.

Q: Karen from Margate asks, “How has COVID impacted wine country, namely California?”

According to the Wine Business Institute at Sonoma State University, the California wine industry is slated to lose $4.22 billion in revenue due to COVID-19. Nationwide, the wine industry is expected to take a $5.9 billion hit, just to put into perspective the significance of wine in California versus the other 49 states. With restaurants and tasting rooms being key pieces of the California hospitality business, restrictions have led to prolonged closures of these facilities or significantly reduced capacity, so fewer people means fewer dollars. Overall, the larger wineries (think Rombauer and Frank Family Vineyards, for example) can stay afloat thanks to a major presence in retail shops and grocery stores. However, the small-to-midsized wineries that

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rely on restaurant wine list placements are having the toughest time due to the unpredictability of what is coming next when it comes to COVID-19. The best way to help small producers? Pick up a bottle at your local retailer!

Q: Tom from Ocean City asks, “I’m trying to drink wines that are lower in alcohol. What do you suggest?”

When it comes to finding lower alcohol wines, easy categories to gravitate to are unoaked white wines that should be consumed within 1-2 years of bottling. Riesling, especially from Germany and New York, rarely goes over the 12% abv mark. Even better, Riesling is incredibly food-versatile, but it is also very refreshing on its own on a warm mid-summer day. Have a sweet tooth? Moscato is a fine choice, especially the fizzy Moscato d’Asti of Piedmont, Italy, which typically clocks in at 7-9% abv. Like the fizz without the sweetness? Vinho Verde wines of Portugal are typically around 10% abv. Fully sparkling wines, such as Prosecco, Cava, and Champagne, all require grapes with lower potential alcohol since high acidity is crucial to quality sparkling wines, so most examples will not be produced with more than 12% abv. Red wine fans can look to Pinot Noir from Germany or Alsace, or you can venture to Austria for their fruity homegrown reds made from Zweigelt grapes and still keep alcohol levels around 12% abv.

Q: Chris From Ventnor asks, “I’m making grilled red snapper with a side of pasta in a blush cream sauce tonight. What type of wine do you suggest? You know I’m partial to red, but I can make an exception.”

Red snapper has a medium texture with some assertive flavor. The cream sauce will help balance those qualities in some way, but now we need a wine to pull it all together. Try a California Rosé such as those from Flowers Winery or Duckhorn’s Decoy line.

Plenty of fruity character and aromatic appeal with just enough acidity to make your mouth water for another bite. You can also try a South African Chenin Blanc, where the tropical fruit flavor meshes well with the cream but also carries plenty of aromatic strength to stand up to the snapper.

Thank you for taking the time to connect. Wishing you and your family continued health and mindful presence as we navigate this time.

With Gratitude, Michael Bray

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LIFESTYLE | Fall 2020

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Money Watch

Mid-Year Review 2020 T

he U.S. capital markets rebounded sharply during the second Quarter of 2020 as the Federal Reserve and Congress supported risk assets to combat the sharp economic disruption caused by COVID-19 through the implementation of a myriad of programs, including rate cuts, enhanced government benefits, and targeted legislative aid. The swift action by Congress in conjunction with the Treasury Department and The Federal Reserve calmed markets and provided liquidity and stability during a time of panic.

Domestic Equities While it remains to be seen whether the U.S. economy will have a “V-Shaped” recovery, the forward-looking stock market has already seen asset prices recover with the S&P 500 ticking positive year-to-date on July 13th of 2020.

Smaller stocks, however, have not fared as well with the S&P Mid-Cap 400 index and the Russell 2000 down 12% and 13% respectively as of the middle of July. The slower recovery of these stocks makes sense though as these indexes contain many travel and leisure, regional bank, and energy stocks that were hit particularly hard in 2020. The S&P 500, comparatively, contains very large tech stocks like Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon that have seen gains this year, pulling the whole index upward with them given their massive size.

International Stock Markets As of the middle of July, both developed and emerging markets remained negative on the year, however, like the U.S., asset prices for foreign stocks also saw a big recovery in the second quarter with the MSCI Index returning 14.88%.

Countries outside the U.S. seem to be having a better handle on COVID-19, and it will be interesting to see if this leads to outperformance through the rest of 2020.

Bond & Credit Markets The 10 and 30-year treasury closed the second quarter with yields of .65% and 1.41% respectively. Government action pushed prices dramatically higher and yields consequently diminished. To put these price moves in perspective, already low yielding fixed income paid nearly 140 basis points higher just one year ago. The U.S. Aggregate Bond Index returned nearly 3% in the second quarter. High yield bonds rebounded from the previous quarter, returning 9.58%.

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LIFESTYLE

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Commodity Update Oil bottomed in the latter part of April and, if you can believe this, actually closed just above $10 per barrel on April 21st, before stabilizing and ultimately heading higher, settling in the $40 range. Gold closed at $1,793 and was up 13.27% for the 2nd quarter.

Investor Behavior & The Rest of 2020 The strategy of sitting on the sidelines and waiting for more clarity rarely benefits the investor. Working with your financial advisor, maintaining discipline, rebalancing, while staying true to your previously agreed upon allocation, is the best way to achieve longer-term success. Making money in the capital markets is never easy and there always are underlying risks to weigh. To the surprise of many, the capital markets have made up most of the losses from the 1st quarter 2020.

The economy may or may not show a V-shaped recovery but, as of this writing, the capital markets have retraced most of the steep decline after bottoming on March 23rd, which now feels like a lifetime ago. Capital markets are being influenced by the Federal Reserve and Government fiscal policy even more so than the financial crisis of 2007-2009. In essence, the markets have been backstopped with fiscal and monetary stimulus and investors have recognized this. For this reason, retesting the March 23rd lows seem unlikely. Historically, when interest rates are extremely low, it is a good time to invest in the stock market. Moreover, after a bear market comes the next bull market which lasts an average of 4.5 years. Risks for investment remain high as the global pandemic ensues, our country votes for a president in November, and tensions with China and other trade partners remain high. While 2020 has been an exhausting year, investing with a long-term perspective in mind will allow you to make fewer mistakes while minimizing unnecessary risks. n

Tom Reynolds, CPA & Matt Reynolds, CPA, CFP® Robert T. Martin, CFA, CFP® Joseph McCaffrey 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.

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