NJ Lifestyle Magazine Holiday 2020 Issue

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

HOLIDAY 2020

Toasty Treats Abound HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • TASTY TAKEOUT “RUFF” TIMES • MONTANA STATE OF MIND

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LifeStyle View

Bring On The Joy

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”

—Anatole France

I

don’t know about you, but one of the best parts of my day is coming home to be greeted by my furry little friend. Jerry was presented to me as a rescue cat that was being cared for by some acquaintances that rescue animals. She wasn’t something I sought out, nor was my cat Fluffer, who lived to be 18. They just appeared one day and that was it. I also wasn’t interested in the responsibility of a pet, but I now realize that I wouldn’t want to live without one.

I’m sure you have similar stories about your own furry friends and the joy they bring to your lives. One of the positive things about the pandemic is that pet adoption has picked up, and a lot of animals are getting new homes. So, for the holidays, we wanted to highlight this trend and focus a bit on a lifestyle that incorporates animals.

I can’t think of a better gift than the gift of a home for a shelter animal and the joy they bring.

On that note, we have a great feature on a couple of animal lovers that moved to New Jersey to horse around in the garden state. In our “Just Horsing Around” feature, we talk with Brian and Morgan Johnson about their new venture. And while we’re on horseback, join us as we head out west to Montana for our travel feature.

Inside this issue, we also take a look at some great places for takeout. Recently I was watching an interview with a wealthy businessman and in the interview, he said that he orders takeout from a Michelin Star restaurant. He noted that this is something that has never been done and would not be offered had the pandemic not forced it. Here in South Jersey, we have our own Restaurant Stars and they’re making delicious food and turning a challenge into an opportunity by offering great takeout. From Joey M’s La Piazza Cucina in Wildwood to Cousin’s in Ocean City, and The Nizam’s in Egg Harbor Township, they’re all passionate restaurateurs who work hard every day to bring you the best!

Also, you must check out our feature on solar. It’s here to stay and provides us with an efficient way to help both the environment and your bottom line. I can only imagine what the industry will look like when we glance back on it 20 years from now.

And we certainly couldn’t leave out our annual gift guide to help you with those unique items that are sure to bring a smile to the receiver. Sunset Outpost in Margate and Talk of the Walk in Atlantic City are among the local shops to help us with a creative selection of gifts. And while we’re in the season of giving, call me about our holiday advertising rates, and let’s kick off the New Year together!

As another holiday season approaches, our NJ Lifestyle family sends you their warmest wishes.

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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: Tandoori Chicken from The Nizam’s.

Contents Departments

20

New Jersey may not sound like the rodeo capital of the world, but the attraction is growing.

FEATURES

Holiday Gift Guide............................... 6

Find the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list this year.

Just Horsing Around............................ 20

Nick Valinote’s cat Jerry

22

Owning a pet can boost our mood, increase feelings of social support, and help children’s emotions.

Home & Design....................................... 12 The future of solar power is here.

A native western couple teaches us the wonders of cowboy therapy.

Montana State Of Mind........................ 32 Head West for some memorable and close encounters.

Make That To Go................................... 54

Health Watch........................................... 22 Finding companionship in our furry friends.

Lifestyle Wellness.................................... 26 The unbreakable bond.

The takeout options in our area are endless!

Lifestyle On Wheels................................. 28 Take a ride in the Aston Martin Vantage.

32

Lifestyle Art.............................................. 38 Art that inspires.

Montana in known for some of the best boating, fishing, and scenic splendor only found in the wilds of the West.

Lifestyle Entertainment........................... 44 Starting over.

Lifestyle Events........................................ 48 Local happenings in and around our area.

The Social Scene...................................... 50 Get the picture on the latest events and happenings.

Lifestyle Wine.......................................... 60 Holiday wine dilemmas.

Resource Gallery..................................... 62 Shop, dine, relax and support local.

Money Watch.......................................... 64 Investment tax planning 2020.

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LIFESTYLE | Holiday 2020

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LifeStyle Contributors The people who make it great

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Holiday 2020 |

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.

LIFESTYLE

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LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

MAGAZINE

Publisher

Nick Valinote Creative Director

Darla Scarduzzio Contributing Editor

Lisa Johnson Contributing Writers

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

Tom Briglia 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:

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

In 1969, Stephen Hankin founded the firm now known as Hankin Sandman Palladino Weintrob & Bell. Since that time, this venerable firm has built a reputation for excellence, effectiveness and integrity, ably advocating for our clients in a variety of practice areas.

HISTORY DEDICATION RESULTS Areas of Practice CONSTRUCTION COMMERCIAL LITIGATION DIVORCE/CUSTODY LAND USE ENVIRONMENTAL REAL ESTATE APPELLATE PRACTICE PERSONAL INJURY EMPLOYMENT CRIMINAL MUNICIPAL LAW PUBLIC CONTRACT LAW CONSUMER FRAUD 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 Avalon Office 2123 Dune Drive | Suite 2 | Avalon, NJ | P: (609) 368-5500 New York Office 32 W. 39th Street | 4th Floor | New York, NY | P: (212) 335-2255

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LIFESTYLE | Holiday 2020

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LifeStyle Fashion

HOLIDAY

GIFT GUIDE

Find the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list this year.

By Danielle Gomes

D

eck the halls, light the menorahs, and hang the lights. It’s time to celebrate and let the holiday shopping begin!

With so many gifts to buy, finding the perfect present can be daunting.

Don’t stress, this guide has you covered. The elves gave up their secrets so that your gift will impress even the grinchiest on your list.

TREAT THE HOST

Candles available at Sunset Outpost

With all the holiday parties coming up, show your host some love.

“It’s so great to give your host a beautiful, handmade game. They look like modern works of art on the coffee table but unlock to a night of fun. They are great reminders to put down the phone and enjoy some good, family competition,” says Farah Burns, owner of Sunset Outpost. These handmade game sets are available as backgammon, dominoes, or mancala.

When it comes to hosting gifts, you can’t go wrong with a quality candle. Sunset Outpost features several candles including their glass vessel candle. “This candle is beautiful and I’m loving the sweet balsam scent. It gives such a warm and wintery aroma, which adds a great seasonal touch,” Burns says.

Handmade backgammon game set available at Sunset Outpost

GOLF GURUS In recent years, the game of golf has evolved into a fashion statement in itself. SneakerPutt’s trendy putter covers are a perfect way to style your game and turn heads on the golf course. Founded in 2020, SneakerPutt is a brand for both golfers and sneakerheads alike. “Our trendy putter covers are crafted from authentic sneakers, from Air Jordan retros to Nike’s latest releases and so much more. Each cover is designed with a protective inner lining to prevent any accidental damage to the putter head. SneakerPutt is a fashion statement for your golf bag, allowing you to hit the links with style and confidence,” says Jalen Franco, Owner and Creator of SneakerPutt. Each sneaker putter cover is re-engineered to stand upright while on a level putting green.

Reusable bags available at Sunset Outpost

Printed croco suede shopper handbag available at Talk of the Walk

Nike sneaker putter cover

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LIFESTYLE | Holiday 2020

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FASHIONISTAS Sometimes finding the perfect gift for the ladies in your life with style, can be difficult. However, Talk of the Walk has you covered.

“Accessories are a great gift for a fashionista. They have such a strong sense of style, even if they have everything, these accessories are gifts that they can work into their collection and love,” says Rose Marie McCarthy, general manager at the Talk of the Walk.

Masks are here to stay, and they’re always needed. “Masks are a practical gift, but something that everyone loves and a great way to add style for the fashion-forward,” McCarthy says. Talk of the Walk has a large selection of adult and child masks, including holiday masks. If you want to take your quarantine-style gift to the next level, Talk of the Walk features sweater sets with matching masks and Quarentini wear. “Our quarentini wear is fabulous, but comfortable leisurewear with matching masks,” McCarthy says.

Another great gift for this time of year is a beautiful poncho. “Ponchos add style to any outfit. They’re very glamorous and make a great gift, because of their universal sizing,” McCarthy explains.

Talk of the Walk carries a large selection of ponchos including fur-trimmed, vegan faux fur-trimmed, embroidered, and more. Along with a poncho, a great hat Holiday mask available at and pair of gloves are perfect, cold-weather Talk of the Walk gifts.

HOMEBODIES

Red Shall available at Talk of the Walk

Planters available at Sunset Outpost

For those cozy, comfy home-loving friends and family, a gift for their home will warm their hearts. “A beautiful plant in a unique planter is something easy to add to anyone’s home décor. And, adding a little green inside is an instant mood-lifter,” Burns says. Sunset Outpost has several unique planters that will make a statement in any décor.

“You can’t go wrong with a soft and cozy, neutral throw blanket.

It’s just a gift that’s always appreciated,” Burns says. You can never have too many throws, especially as the temperatures drop.

For a truly unique gift, consider giving a Block of Love. “They are beautiful pieces for a shelf, console, coffee table or wherever you want to add a pop of happy vibes — they make great gifts,” Burns says.

Blocks of Love are by artist Kerri Rosenthal. These hearts and colorful blocks are reproduced artwork set in a plexiglass block.

Throw blanket available at Sunset Outpost

Blocks of Love at Sunset Outpost

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ITINERANTS Tahiti

Award winning Ladies Boutique voted Best of the Shore 2020!

ONE OF A KIND APPAREL, SHOES AND ACCESSORIES SPECIALIZING IN SIZES 2-3X.

Travel-loving folks have definitely struggled this year and are undoubtedly craving a great getaway. While it’s hard to give someone a complete vacation, you can give them a gift certificate from Berman Travel. “A lot of people want to give travel gifts, but it’s nearly impossible just from a practical standpoint of planning and booking.

So, we offer gift certificates that allow the gift of travel to be given and received in the most ideal way,” says Susan Berman, owner of Berman Travel.

An added benefit of a gift card from Berman Travel is the expert help in planning and booking that goes along with the gift. With Berman Travel, you’re likely to spend less and get more while receiving incredible service. “You would think that this would’ve been a slow year for Itinerant me, but I’ve i·tin·er·ant been insanely a per son busy booking, travels fr who om place to place. rebooking, and watching our clients’ vacation plans,” Berman says.

Shore Art by Patti Speed

Open year round, Talk of the Walk is the place to shop for a fashionable collection of daytime sportswear to elegant evening attire.

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LIFESTYLE | Holiday 2020

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ART LOVERS Presents It’s A Shore Holiday

Saturday, Nov. 21 at 7PM

The Nutcracker

Sunday, Dec. 20 at 4PM

Pet Portrait

by Patti Speed

12/22 Presenter House Portraits by Patti Speed

The Nutcracker is Presented By:

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For those artfully minded, an original work of art is the perfect gift. “Art is such a unique and special gift that reaches people on such a deeply emotional level,” says Patti Speed, artist. Speed is a local artist that specializes in custom commissioned portraits and original work. She does portraits of loved ones, pets, “fan art”, shore art, holiday art, and dream homes. If you’re wondering…

“Fan art, of sports stars, musicians and celebrities is a very popular gift,” Speed says.

Speed works with several mediums. “I use many different media to create fine art including pencil, acrylic paints, designer gouache, and watercolor. For me, the subject matter determines the medium and technique,” Speed says. Speed’s work ranges in price from $30 for ornaments to over $1000, for very large works of art. n Visit our Resource Gallery on page 62 for more information on the aforementioned retailers.

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Home & Design

LET THE

SUNSHINE IN!

The future of solar power is here, and possibly the smartest way to power your house.

By Danielle Gomes

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LIFESTYLE

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LIFESTYLE | Holiday 2020

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HOME & DESIGN

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W

ith the health of our planet on the nation’s conscience, clean renewable energy sources, such as solar power, have started to become more mainstream. However, if you think that this is the wave of the future, you may be wrong. In fact, according to Solar Energy Industries Association’s Research Data, in 2019, 40% of all new electric capacity added to the grid came from solar.

“The time for solar power is now. The technology has become incredibly advanced and if you wait too long you may miss out on some of the benefits and incentives that people are getting now,” says Bill Driscoll, owner of Ocean Solar. Since opening in 2011, Ocean Solar has increased its business by 200 to 300% every year, excluding the impact that Covid-19 had on the company.

Power It As we all know, solar panels turn energy from the sun into electricity. They do this by allowing particles of light (photons) to free electrons from atoms, generating a flow of electricity. This process happens in small units called photovoltaic cells. Dozens of these cells are linked together to form one solar panel. The average size solar panel is just under 18 square feet and produces between 400 and 600 kilowatt-hours per year.

This is when things start to get complicated. “The number of solar panels that you need depends entirely on the size of your home and how much electricity you use,” Driscoll explains. You can easily figure out how much electricity your household consumes with your electric bill.

The rest you will need an expert for.

With your electric bill, an expert will walk you through the options and variables. To begin with, the direction of your roof greatly affects the efficiency of your solar panels.

“A south-facing roof is ideal, east and west work well, northfacing is the least ideal. South-facing roofs produce at about 125% of its nameplate, east and west produce at around 100%, while north-facing produces at around 80%,” Driscoll explains. The nameplate capacity is the sustained, full-load output of the solar panel system.

Next, you will need to calculate how much space you need to cover your electric usage, compared to how much space you have available. Typically, larger houses require more electricity which equals more solar panels. However, this is when other factors also come into play. For example, if you have a south-facing roof, your solar panels will perform better so you may be able to use less.

If you have a large amount of land, you may want to consider a ground-mounted system. “Ground mounts work very well, too. You typically need about 200 square feet,” Driscoll says. On the ground, you have the option of really optimizing the tilt of the panels. “Efficiency is key with solar panels,” Driscoll says.

Once these factors are taken into consideration, you will have a good idea of how much electricity your system will

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generate. With this information, you can determine what percentage of your current electric usage you can cover. “You don’t have to cover your entire electric usage. As long as you can cover at least 60%, the system will be worth it,” Driscoll says.

Own It “Solar panel systems typically cost around $20,000, but that’s just an average. It really depends on how much electricity you consume.

While this seems like a lot, Solar is not that expensive when it’s explained,” Driscoll says. There are basically two ways to cover this cost; you can buy your system or you can lease it. Most companies offer a lease program. However, there are several drawbacks to leasing your solar panel system.

“Solar Ownership is the way to go,” Driscoll says. Ocean Solar specializes in owner-owned commercial and residential solar panel systems. “There are so many reasons to own your own solar panel system,” Driscoll explains. To begin with, owning your own solar qualifies you to receive the tax cuts and incentives. With ownership, you can get a loan to cover the expense of the system. “You typically can pay the entire loan off in five years. Even when you take the loan payment into consideration, you will still typically pay less than what you were paying for your electric,” Driscoll explains.

Ocean Solar will do all of the paperwork for the loan application and will walk you through the process. It’s also pretty hassle-free.

“We monitor every single panel that we install. If there is a problem, we’re there and know exactly what needs to be fixed,” Driscoll says.

Whereas, when you lease a solar system, you pay nothing upfront.

The company covers the cost of installation and then you lease it back from them. The problem with this is that when you go to sell your home, the leased solar panel system

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HOME & DESIGN

becomes a liability, instead of a home improvement. “Transferring the lease arrangements can seriously complicate the sale of the home,” Driscoll explains.

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Feel Good About It “I got into solar energy after 9/11.

I realized depending on foreign oil was a national security issue,” Driscoll says. Prior to solar energy, Driscoll was an educator with a focus on ethics and philosophy. He holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Harvard and a Master’s Degree in Comparative Philosophy from Loyola Marymount. “With a philosophy and ethics background, I wanted a career that was built on a foundation of — do no harm, which solar energy fit perfectly in,” Driscoll says.

In 2011, Ocean Solar opened.

“It was very important to me that people had the ability to own their own systems. This way solar becomes a win for the environment, a win economically and a win politically,” Driscoll says.

Energy independence is the way to go, it’s good for the environment and it’s good for your pocket.

According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, “Through Q2 2020, the U.S. now has more than 85 gigawatts (GW) of cumulative installed solar electric capacity, enough to power more than 16.1 million average American homes, and offset more than 96 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.”

Yet, only 3% of all possible solar viable roofs have solar. “As we move further into the 21st century, renewable energy will become the sole source of our energy to run our cars, power our homes, and power our businesses. The wave of the future is cresting today! Be a part of the solution and protect the planet, our national security interests, and add green to your wallet!” Driscoll wholeheartedly explains. n

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LifeStyle Leisure

Brian and Morgan Johnson

Just Horsing Around A native western couple transplants to New Jersey to teach us not only how to ride, but also the wonders of cowboy therapy.

By Molly Golubcow

S

ir Winston Churchill once said, “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” In addition to their majestic beauty and raw power, studies show that the very presence of a horse lowers blood pressure and improves moods in humans.

Perhaps that explains why over 2 million people in the United States own horses — loyal, powerful, and sensitive creatures that evoke a sense of freedom and strength. If you need more reasons as to why horses soothe whatever ails you, just ask Brian and Morgan

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Johnson — trainers currently located at The Rockin’ J Ranch in South Jersey.

Little Buckaroos Horse sense, if you will, make up the Johnsons’ DNA. Recently transplanted to New Jersey from Nevada and Texas, respectively, the newlywed couple has been riding horses since they were youngsters. Morgan grew up competing in pee wee rodeos as a child. By the time she was a teenager, Morgan and her beloved

“Rocking J moved here from Texas to get the Western world up and running!

We want to help riders of all ages achieve all their horse dreams!”

— Brian & Morgan Johnson Blue were wowing crowds doing the Barrel Pattern — the only event women can professionally compete in on the rodeo circuit. Brian learned to rope and train horses as a teenager in Nevada. While working on his degree in Animal Science at Tarleton State University, Johnson competed on their rodeo team — ranked number one in the country. By his senior year in college, Johnson was running his own horse training company.

Although Brian and Morgan were destined to work with horses, neither of them could have predicted where they are today. Morgan Johnson explains, “When we began competing in rodeos, we believed that we would compete as professionals, but never thought we would be training horses and people. We fell more in love with how people felt when they touched a horse. I knew how much it helped me when I had a bad day — and I wanted to share the love of these animals with everyone!”

Whether riding for their own pleasure or training others, the Johnsons knew in their heart (and saddles) that they wanted to work with horses. Morgan explains her love of horses at an early age, “Being born into a family that is full of ranchers I knew that I always wanted my life to be with animals. From the moment I sat on the back of a horse, I knew I wanted it to be a forever thing in my life that was never going to go away.”

Horsing Around — New Jersey Style So how did the Johnsons end up so far from home?

While on an internship working towards his degree, Brian Johnson came to New Jersey and “…found that this is the place we can make the biggest impact in other people’s lives.” Since relocating in May 2020, the Johnsons already have touched many people — adults and children. Especially during Covid-19 times, the Johnsons repeatedly have seen how being on or near horses instantly makes people happier.

Although New Jersey may not sound like the rodeo capital of the world, the attraction is growing. According to the New Jersey Horse Council, the Garden State has more horses per person and square mile than any other state in the country. The Johnsons, the only Western trainers located within an hour of Atlantic City, want to

help rodeo love grow by bringing their style and riding experience to the area. Whether training students on the New Jersey High School Rodeo team or casual Sunday riders, the couple plans to stay in New Jersey and train.

Johnson elaborates, “What keeps us on the east coast is that no one around here does what we do. We teach horses, yes, but horses come with so much more than just learning how to ride; they teach responsibilities, life lessons, how to overcome fears, and it teaches adults that you can always keep learning…”

The Cowboy Way Cowboys and cowgirls possess a certain “way” about them. From respectfully saying “yes ma’am” and “no sir” to loving their horses more than people (on some days), the cowboy way is a unique state of mind. The Johnsons teach their students Brian Johnson all about the cowboy at the rodeo psyche and that it is way more than just a T-shirt, jeans, and a big brim hat.

Whether a CEO for a major company looking to release stress or a fiveyear-old child who is a bit shy around others, cowboy therapy works wonders because “… it forces people to slow down and relax, and kids just love anything to do with horses.”

In addition to learning the “ropes” of being a cowboy, pun intended, the Johnsons also emphasize something that only a cowboy can truly comprehend — the bond between a horse and a rider. The Johnsons see riding horses like “…a never-ending puzzle where you learn something new every day if you take the time to listen to the horse.”

Most people are familiar with the concept of a horse whisperer — someone who can communicate to a horse by reading body language and making eye contact with the animal. However, the Johnsons recognize that horses listen and communicate to their riders as well. Johnson explains the two-way communication between horse and rider, “There are some days the horse just knows you’re having a hard time or they just know when to not be bad. It’s like somedays they read your mind. I have had some of the best conversations with horses.” n To schedule a training lesson, check out Rockin J options on Facebook — facebook.com/RockinJRodoe. Or call 888-534-0989.

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Health Watch

“RUFF” TIMES Finding love and companionship in our furry friends.

By Robin Stoloff

Robin’s son Luke and daughter Alanna with their dog Chipper through the years. Pictured far right, Steven Dash of the Humane Society.

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L

ove…togetherness…fun…companionship…a lifetime relationship. This may sound like an ad for a dating site, but it is actually what you can expect when you adopt a pet. Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, pet adoptions have sky-rocketed across the nation. There are several reasons, according to Steven Dash, Executive Director of The Humane Society of Atlantic County. In his 40 years with the organization, Dash has never seen such a demand for dogs and cats. With more people home, he says, there is more time to train a pet and take better care of them. People are feeling lonely and disconnected from each other, and a pet can help fill that void. The shelter was closed for a short period when the shutdown began, but it has been busy ever since. “After we reopened, we started bringing in transfers from other shelters, like we normally do, and we were flooded with requests for adoptions. I think when it started in the spring a lot of people were home alone and they didn’t have a lot to do so that is a good time to train a new puppy or new pet.”

That trend continues today. “Any dogs or puppies we bring in are adopted within a day or two, that includes young puppies and older dogs as well. We have seen an uptick of cat adoptions too.” Dash says the animals are helping people who feel sad, lonely, and scared during these uncertain times. They are especially helpful to people who are still at home and cannot socialize like they did prior to Covid-19.

That was the case for Janet Sinnet, of Egg Harbor Township, who began working remotely in March. Her husband works long days and several evenings per week and her children are grown and out of the house. Sitting home alone with her computer as her closest connection to the outside world, she started feeling somewhat isolated, something many of us have experienced since the start of the pandemic. After careful consideration, she decided to adopt a new cockapoo named Cooper, so named because they were “cooped up” in the house. “Training a new puppy has been a lot more than I expected. We called him Cooper the Pooper, so you can imagine how I was spending my time, but I don’t regret it at all. I am so happy we have him.”

The joy and companionship of having her new buddy has been a silver lining during these trying times. “After puppy training classes, Cooper is finally settling in, and we now have a new nickname for him — Super Cooper!”

For the estimated 68% of U.S. households that have a pet, nothing compares to the joy of coming home to a loyal companion. However, the unconditional love of a pet can do more than keep us company. Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol, lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and increase physical fitness (those dogs don’t walk themselves). According to Dash, owning a pet also encourages social interactions at dog parks or local events. One such event that The Humane Society participates in is “Yappy Hour.” Held at various restaurants and breweries, people gather with their dogs for fun and camaraderie. These events also provide an opportunity for dogs to be placed in a new home.

Owning a pet can increase feelings of social support, boost our mood, and help children with learning responsibility and emotional and social skills. We brought our dog, Chipper, into our family many years ago when he was just a puppy. My son was only ten at the time and wanted a dog more than anything. He walked him, fed him, and cleaned up after him, with a little prodding from mom and dad, of course. It taught him about responsibility, loyalty, love, and companionship. Now, at the age of 20, he brought his buddy to college with him. It has been a lifelong friendship.

While playing with a puppy or cuddling with a little kitten is an enticing benefit of having a pet, it is important to remember that animals are a big responsibility. What should we consider when adopting an animal? First, recommends Dash, it should be a commitment for the entire life of the animal. “Animals can live 10-15 years so don’t take on a pet and think I will have it for a year and we will see what happens.” You should consider your circumstances, such as your job situation and home environment. This is especially important for people who have short term leases or if they are anticipating moving”, says Dash. “Veterinary care can get very

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HEALTH WATCH

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expensive, even dog and cat food can be expensive. You want to make sure you can afford the animal. Plus, some people cannot take care of an animal because it got too big, so put some thought into what type of animal best fits your lifestyle. We will bring in a load of puppies from some underdeveloped areas down south and people will come in and start picking puppies without even asking what breed it is. You should know — is it an active breed, a laid-back breed, is it going to be big, small, medium?

A lot of times people will pick just on looks.”

At the Humane Society, they want to make sure that the pet and the owners are a good fit, “We work with people to see what kind of lifestyle they have and what kind of pet would best fit that lifestyle,” says Dash.

“We do medical and temperament evaluations on all of our dogs when they come in, so we will be able to tell you usually if it is good with kids, if it is active, if not suitable for small kids, or if it is good with other animals or doesn’t like other animals. We have been doing this process for 20 years, so we kind of have it down and, while there are no guarantees, we are fairly accurate.” Cat adoptions range from $50-$100 and puppy and adult dog adoptions are approximately $100$350. The fees include all the exams, evaluations, and vaccines.

Another consideration when adopting an animal is to make sure your new pet gets along with other animals in your home, “We ask you to bring your other animals to see how they interact together. Sometimes it is a great fit and other times we can tell right away it is a difficult fit.”

Many people do not realize there is a huge park in the back of the shelter off the White Horse Pike in Atlantic City. “It is set up with all different kinds of exercise yards for the dogs so we bring the owners animal into the exercise yard with the animal they want to adopt and we can gauge how they do.”

YOU’RE NEVER FAR FROM The park is also used for exercising the animals as well as training for Canine Warriors which provide service dogs specifically for combat veterans who suffer from PTSD. All of the dogs through Canine Warriors go through the Humane Society. They are a nonprofit, no-kill shelter that relies on veterinary services, adoption fees, private donations, and fund-raisers to take care of the animals. Most of their animals come from rescue organizations and other non-profit shelters in different communities. They often bring in displaced animals who have lost their homes due to weather disasters in other areas.

So, bottom line, if you are looking for a loyal companion to brighten your days, reduce feelings of loneliness, and add some joy to your life, who needs a dating service? A new pet may be just what the doctor ordered.

Remember to consider all the factors that come with pet ownership and choose wisely, because you will be starting a relationship that will last a lifetime. n

PET ADOPTION RESOURCES Atlantic County Humane Society of Atlantic County humanesocietyac.org

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Garden Living

The Unbreakable Bond

By Felicia L. Niven

T

“He would spend the night every fourth Friday for a full hose of us who have been blessed to be called 24-hour visit. We also took him on lots of little trips.

Grandma or Grandpa know a little secret. There’s a Sometimes we brought along his friends.” magical connection, a kindred spirit that exists between There’s something important going on along with all grandparent and grandchild. It transcends the generations with a devotion that’s distinctly different from the love of that fun. Grandparents are providing a sense of heritage and family identity. “We always share for your own children. A grandchild stories from the past and about our arrives and suddenly you have a special new name, and an amazing life experiences,” noted Shelley. new role, one that is positively lifeThese are stories that they will grow changing. Just ask the residents of to appreciate even more over time Seashore Gardens Living Center and perhaps share them with their own children and grandchildren.

(SGLC).

“They make my life so full of At SGLC, so many of the residents are grandparents and great love, and I truly treasure them,” said Diane Bell of her 12 grandchildren grandparents that talking about and 7 great grandchildren. Shelley grandkids is a natural conversation starter. Residents love to share and Jerry Bernstein agree. “Even if we don’t see some of them often, Betsey and Charlie visiting grandmom Pam at SGLC. pictures and news, and admire each other’s new additions. To celebrate we Skype, Facetime and talk on the phone,” said Shelley. “They are a major part of our lives.” that bond, the SGLC recreation staff typically plans It’s a relationship that’s years in the making. Even an intergenerational event for Grandparents Day in September. This year, due to the pandemic, Grandparents though he’s now grown, Doris Liebowitz remembers Day was considerably quieter, marked with porch visits, sleepovers with her grandson, Zach. “It started with an video chats and cards. overnight stay when he was about 2 years old,” she said.

Enriching Elder Lives

Est. 1916

Reaching Across the Generations Part of enriching elder lives at SGLC is tapping into this intergenerational experience — not only by fostering opportunities for video chats with one’s own grandchildren but by providing opportunities for other connections.

“We have a number of programs where our residents can interact with teens and young adults,” said Executive Director Alysia Price, LCSW, LNHA, CALA, CDP. “Prior to the pandemic, Stockton University students were active in our Opening Minds Through Art program, GET FIT, the Seashore Gardeners, and Seashore Gardens University. Going forward, we just have to be a little more creative. The BJE Better Together program, which connects residents with Jewish teens, has transitioned from in-person to virtual in its fourth year.”

Alysia emphasized the value of these intergenerational exchanges.

“Just the connection with young people brings the feeling of family,” she said. “Sharing a moment and making those authentic social connections help with our residents’ health and wellbeing. There’s an opportunity to find commonalities and share insight and a sense of history. That creates a feeling of self-worth — that our residents have something to offer.

Ultimately, it’s about the joy that each person can bring to each other.”

Joy is also at the center of the grandparent-grandchild bond. “They are the love and joy of my life,” noted Gloria Farina. “They are love and the continuation of our family’s values,” said Shirley and Howard Bernstein. “It is not easy to express what my grandson means to me in just a few words,” said Doris Liebowitz. Ultimately, she summed it up in one, echoing the sentiment of so many grandparents.

“What does my grandson mean to me?

Everything.” n

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LifeStyle On Wheels

BRITISH

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Aston Martin’s Vantage is not only a rare breed, but a statement of independence on the road.

By Elaine Rose

W

2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster

e’re all familiar with the concept of a trophy wife. She’s strikingly beautiful, high maintenance, and often with little substance.

Think of the Aston Martin Vantage as a trophy car. It’s dropdead gorgeous and pricey, but it has plenty of power under the hood.

There is no logical reason whatsoever to buy the two-seater Vantage. You can’t use it to take the kids to basketball practice; it’s useless for a family vacation, and the measly 10 cubic feet of trunk space make it challenging even for a trip to the grocery store.

You buy this car to attract attention — not to mention envy — wherever you go.

And as any self-respecting James Bond fan knows, the Aston Martin was Agent 007’s favorite ride.

Assembled at Aston Martin headquarters in Gaydon, England, the Vantage nameplate has been on several of the company’s offerings since the 1950s. The current incarnation was introduced for the 2019 model year.

The 2020 Vantage is priced starting at $149,995. There are two trim levels, but the AMR had a limited production run and you’re unlikely to get your mitts on one. The standard Vantage is available as a coupe or as a convertible, the latter being named the Roadster. The 2021 model, which should be in showrooms by the time you read this, costs $7,000 less.

The first thing one notices about the Vantage is its appearance.

“Everywhere we went it led to a conversation, and that conversation was always some variation of ‘Wow, that is a beautiful car. No really, that is really a beautiful car,’” Elana Scherr wrote for Car and Driver. “Poor Vantage. Nobody cares that it’s quick, clever, and customizable. They just want to talk about its body.”

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LIFESTYLE ON WHEELS Scherr described the Vantage as looking like a crouching cat ready to pounce on its prey, and “we assure you that it’s a stunner on the road.”

And if you want performance, you got it, baby — in spades!

The engine is a twin-turbo, eight-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection built by Mercedes-AMG. It has rear-wheel drive and produces 503 horsepower and can go from zero to 60 in 3.3 seconds. (Add about half a second to that for the convertible.) Aston Martin claims it will do 195 mph, but good luck finding a speed-trap-free zone in New Jersey to verify that for yourself.

Fuel economy is quite respectable for a luxury sports car. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates it will get 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The transmission is eight-speed automatic, but a seven-speed manual transmission will be an option for 2021 models.

There are three drive modes: Sport, Sport-Plus, and Track. Some reviewers say it’s a bit cumbersome to switch between them, but fortunately, you won’t feel the need to do it very often.

“The Vantage Roadster is no show pony. It hasn’t been designed to do its best work slowly cruising the boulevards of the south of France — or South Beach, Florida — roof down and looking fabulous,” Angus MacKenzie wrote for Motor Trend. It’s a proper sports car. You can drive it. Hard.”

“The chassis is comfortable enough to handle long stretches of highway cruising, but also taut enough to keep the Vantage flat and composed on tight hairpin turns,” Steven Ewing wrote for Road Show after test-driving the 2021 Roadster. “Solid steering helps communicate what’s happening at all four corners with a nice amount of weight at turn-in regardless of driving mode.”

And then there is the unmistakable Aston Martin roar, one of the perks that get you noticed.

“It’s a fun soundtrack out on the open road, but in urban areas, it’s a bit embarrassing,” Motor Trend’s Mackenzie wrote. “Do you want to drive around your neighborhood in a convertible that sounds like World War III has broken out?”

Well, maybe you do.

“Just like the Coupe, the Vantage Roadster is an emotion play, you buy it because you want it and because of the statement, it makes,” Road Show’s Ewing wrote.

Inside, the Vantage is a simplified luxury, with lots of leather. Some reviewers say the visible plastic makes it look tacky, especially on a vehicle in this price range. Inside storage space is limited. The $2,500 Comfort Collection includes 16-way power adjustment and heated seats. You can upgrade the leather for even more opulence.

The controls are numerous, and some say there is a learning curve to use them optimally. The infotainment system is equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen but is not compatible with either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

Safety and reliability are uncertain. The Vantage is so over-the-top that Consumer Reports doesn’t rate it and the road-safety organizations don’t crashtest it. The optional Tech Collection goes for $3,000 and includes blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors for a little more security behind the wheel.

If you’re not ready to commit the Vantage, lease options are available starting at about $1,800 a month, plus signing fees.

So, if you’ve been a good boy or girl this year, and the Vantage is your heart’s desire, it’s time to write that letter to Santa. It wouldn’t hurt to check your bank account either. n

LifeStyle Travel

MONTANA STATE OF MIND Get ready to head West for some memorable and close encounters.

By Molly Golubcow

Swiftcurrent Lake at Glacier National Park

T A pair of mountain goats on a Montana trail

Lakeside Cabin

he motto for Montana that best describes the state, “BEARLY inhabited, MOOSELY wild, and DEERLY desired,” says it all. As the fourth largest state in the US, Montana attracts almost 13 million tourists each year to natural treasures like Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. In addition, Montana possesses over 3,000 named lakes and reservoirs for some of the best boating, fishing, and scenic splendor only found in the wilds of the West.

Not into fishing and hunting? Montana offers something for everyone from theater to fine cuisine.

So, grab your hiking shoes, camera, and cowboy hat because we’re heading West for some memorable and close encounters — Montana style.

Flathead Lake As a result of prehistoric flooding, Flathead Lake is the largest natural water source west of the Continental Divide — spanning 200 square miles. Along the 185 miles of shoreline, Flathead Lake offers public access for picnicking, swimming, camping, and watersports.

Fishing enthusiasts enjoy trolling the deep waters of the lake for pike, rainbow trout, bass, Kokanee salmon, and especially, the massive lake trout weighing in up to 20 pounds. If you have time, head out by boat for a day trip to Wildhorse Island. Located on the lake’s west shore, you can find a less traveled site for a serene, relaxing way to

spend an afternoon.

For non-anglers, swimming areas are plentiful.

Also, kayaking on the Flathead Lake Marine Trail is a must. Whether you are a beginner or an expert kayaker, select the waters you want to navigate, rocky or calm, for miles and miles. Land lovers can enjoy hiking on novice trails along the lake or opt for more challenging hikes in the Jewel Basin Hiking Area and Pablo National Wildlife Refuge. Another fun activity for the entire family is the High-Country Trail Ride, a guided 2-hour horseback trail ride on a large ranch near Kalispell.

Nightlife, in addition to listening to the sounds of the wild from your rustic camper or a nearby lodge, is also available in nearby Bigfork — voted one of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in the nation.

You may be in the heart of the pastoral West, but be sure to check out the art galleries, shops, and the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. For foodies, the town offers up everything culinary from pub food to gourmet cuisine.

Whitefish Lake Located two miles northwest of the town of Whitefish, outdoorsy activities are as abundant as the stars in a Montana sky. Don’t tell anyone, but many consider Whitefish Lake an “under-theradar Montana gem.” As does the surrounding mountain town, the area presents with lots to do year-round. In the winter, world-class skiing is available at nearby Whitefish Mountain offering ski schools, night skiing, and stunning alpine views. Summer activities include camping, hiking, and biking trails.

Recently voted the cleanest lake in America, Whitefish is ideal for sail boating or water-skiing.

Other available water sports include kayaks, stand up paddleboards (SUPs), pedal boats, rafting, and more. After hours of boating, chill out at Whitefish City Beach Park — a sandy beach with designated swimming areas, gazebos, and picnic tables.

Opportunities for lake fishermen and river anglers are part of the Whitefish appeal. In addition

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LIFESTYLE TRAVEL

to trout, large mountain Whitefish are also plentiful — not surprising since the lake is named after the fish! Lake trout can also be found near the various inlets leading up to the lake located on the northern end. To get away from the summer crowds, head to the north end for areas less traveled to, but just as stunning.

If you are staying in the Whitefish Lake area, an excursion through the more than a million acres of mountain views in Glacier National Park is a must-do. From mountain or road biking to Ziplining, the peaks and valleys of this World Heritage site offer things to do for all ages and interests. If you just want to sightsee and chill, ride the shuttle from Whitefish to Glacier National Park throughout the summer season.

Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch When visiting Montana, you need to get your boots a little dusty and experience ranch life — as a good cowboy should. Depending on your age, everyone remembers at least one of Hollywood’s versions of ranching — Bonanza on TV, City Slickers in the movies, and now the mini-series, Yellowstone. Galt Ranch, owned and operated by the Galt family for generations, boasts an impressive 248,000-acre working ranch in central Montana. For over 100 years, the family has raised cattle and horses on their own piece of heaven.

Bill Galt, owner and fourth-generation rancher, clearly did not grow up in a family adhering to Waylon’s and Willie’s advice, “Mamas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow up to Be Cowboys...” When asked how Kevin Costner, playing the Dutton family patriarch in Yellowstone, measures up to reallife ranching, Galt explains, “They do a pretty good job of representing cowboys — they use the correct horse and they know how to ride. They look like cowboys — and that is about the end of any similarities between my ranch and theirs.”

If you are looking for a hunting excursion with the Galts, the ranch hosts about 250 guests a year — primarily for elk hunting on the land proper and fishing excursions on nearby Smith River. Although most Galt hunters stay outside the ranch in nearby lodges and hotels, the ranch offers comfortable lodging for about 20 guests on the grounds featuring a camp with full amenities including phone and Wi-Fi. Go West, Young Man (Woman) Regardless of the season, Montana promises to be an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise all year long. From rugged mountains and alpine forests to tranquil lakes and meadows, the distinct call of the wild, from a Grizzly to a Bigorn Sheep, beckons you to come and explore Montana. n

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LifeStyle Art

El Pรกjaro Misterioso by artist Tania Pomales

The Janis Project by artist Frank Hyder

ART THAT

INSPIRES A view from the studio reminds us to look inwards during struggling times.

By Michael Cagno

Andromeda Series no. 29 by artist Jack Knight

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D

uring the global crisis of COVID-19, artists have not been exempted from this pandemic. Like many of us, artists have struggled financially, mentally, and socially. There are predictions that one-third of museums in the world will close. COVID-19 has impacted financially over 95% of the artists in America, which has only reinforced that the Arts are incredibly undervalued in society.

Even with the odds stacked against them, artists continue to reinvent themselves and break through boundaries. And given all of this, they are still creating. As a Chinese contemporary artist and activist once said, “Life is art. Art is life. I never separate it.”

Former South Jersey artist, Joseph Podlesnik, has not slowed down during the pandemic. Even though New Jersey shut down this past March, Podlesnik’s art was still on display at Gallery 50 in Bridgeton from April to the end of May. Exhibiting with renowned New Jersey watercolor artist Marie Natale, Joseph’s photographs disrupts readable perspective space by emphasizing the flat surface.

Though the exhibit “Sentiment and Surface” was not open to the public, Gallery 50 provided virtual experiences for their visitors. Given the new reality of social distancing and convening outdoor-only events, especially with 100-degree temperatures in Arizona, Mother’s Day was celebrated outdoors with family. His photograph “Mother’s Day, 2020” captures a glimpse of the outdoor back patio celebration.

Recently, Podlesnik published his latest book “Forgetfulness,” photographs of night images from Phoenix, Arizona. Podlesnik lives in Phoenix, Arizona, and exhibits his work nationally and internationally. In conversation with Joseph, currently, he is a Visual Arts Adjunct Faculty at Stockton

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University and is Program Coordinator/Facilitator for the Digital Photography Cornell Certificate Program.

For Vineland artist Tania Pomales, creating art during the COVID-19 pandemic has been about exploring the darker emotions of the “unfamiliar.” By taking advantage of this unsettling time, Pomales has been “diving deep to exorcise from within and take risks.” Expressing everything she has to give, “now is not the time to make ‘safe art,’ says Pomales. Her latest piece, “El Pájaro Misterioso” was done entirely in grisaille (to paint in tones of a single color and especially gray designed to produce a threedimensional effect) which was a first for Pomales. Afterward, she went over it in color and glazes.

Typically, she does not approach a piece with this level of methodology. In terms of subject matter, Pomales is exploring bolder ideas of juxtaposition with different elements and themes. It is a pivotal moment for artists to fine-tune or rediscover their artistic voices and visions.

Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art alum and Ocean City artist and filmmaker John Thornton has been one of the area’s biggest ambassadors for fellow artists. When the pandemic struck, he quickly realized that many artists would be having their exhibitions put on hold or canceled. Thornton made an offer on Facebook to produce and film free movies for artists. As of early September, he has created 33 “Artists in the Time of Pandemic” films so far. When asked if he had any favorites, one of the many that stood out was about Dr. Mashiul Chowdhury, a wonderful artist, originally from Bangladesh, who is also an infectious disease doctor. Thornton’s theme has always been an intersection of art

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LIFESTYLE ART

and life. To view his work visit his YouTube channel YouTube.com/ RustyScupperton.

International artist Frank Hyder has spent the past eight summers working as an artist in residence on Oceania Cruise lines Marina and Riviera. Luxury cruise ships working the global cruise destinations provided opportunities to document his work globally. In recent years Hyder had begun the Janis Project, supported partially by the parent company of Norwegian.

The Janis Project consisted of large inflatable heads, which are affirmative statements about racial

It is the arts that remind us of our essential humanity and so inspires in times of struggle.

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tolerance. Frank was in Rio De Janeiro when the pandemic caused the fleet to halt and was given only two days to return to America. Hyder splits his time between Miami and Philadelphia. Upon his return to the studio with virtually everything shut down he began creating paintings which imagined a huge “Janis” style head drifting in a sparsely populated boat on a vast ocean. The image represented the sense of disconnect and lack of closure the pandemic presented. Hyder took his most recent Janis Figure and sewed a mask upon the face as a statement of solidarity towards the mask-wearing public who have been dealing with and adjusting to the COVID-19

DON’T FACE CANCER ALONE. world.

Delaware artist Jack Knight has not allowed the pandemic to take control of his life. Knight continues his creative process by working nearly every day in his studio. It has become a pleasant “diversion to reduce the daily anxiety of COVID-19 and the social discontent.” Inspired by modernist and pop artist his work celebrates color and form. Knight’s work allows the viewer the choice to establish or interpret the content of the composition as an intuitive impression, reflecting on the visual symbols in play.

As artists continue to play an essential role in society, let us remember to support their work, especially during the pandemic.

Indeed, artists often like working alone, but they also feed off each other and the public. Their immediate world, like ours, suffers from the absence of physical connection.

Therefore, they are forced to look inwards for inspiration to capture that visceral experience. It is the arts that remind us of our essential humanity and inspire in times of struggle.

Across the nation, people are using technology, especially during this pandemic. Regardless of your feelings about COVID-19, it will and already has changed lives around the globe. Technology has created a voyeuristic journey into everyone’s lives. Some say that virtual space, which does provide continuous engagement in the arts, will replace the need for dedicated physical spaces. Technology should be another tool to showcase and engage with the arts but not become the sole provider. 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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Life Life Style Style Entertainment Entertainment

STARTING

OVER Discover what our local musicians anticipate as they begin to begin to perform live again.

By David Spatz

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Singer and solo artist Dan Kee

D

on’t take it personally if musician Chris Yoder instinctively takes a few steps backward if you try to approach him.

It’s not that he isn’t interested in hearing your comments, or maybe requesting a song.

He’s taking every precaution to make sure neither he nor his audience becomes victims of COVID-19 “Probably the last thing any performer wants to say to someone who approaches them is, ‘Dude, back off,’” Yoder said. The good manners of an entertainer are now competing with self-preservation.

Yoder wants to please his audience, but in the back of his mind is the realization that the world is dealing with something it hasn’t seen for a century: a respiratory pandemic that can be extremely deadly.

Labor Day weekend seemed fairly normal for Yoder, working three one-nighters at three places in Ocean, Atlantic, and Cape May counties. But that’s where normal ended. “(The virus) changed almost everything I do. I wear a mask when I’m setting up my (equipment). It’s definitely harder,” he said.

“Now, I sort of back away a little bit when people walk up to me. None of us can see this tiny little bug.”

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Yoder is an acoustic guitarist for whom music is a side gig. He’s taking every precaution to keep himself healthy and socially distant from his audience, just as he does at his fulltime job as an eighth-grade science teacher in Berlin Township.

“I can’t bring things home to my family.

That’s more important to me than anything else,” he said.

When he first learned of the deadly pandemic and the statewide shutdown to quash it, he didn’t think it would last long.

“We thought it would be maybe two weeks (of a shutdown), no big deal,” he reflected. “I think it took a solid month or so, for people to finally realize this was going to be (longer than two weeks).”

Entertainer Beth Tinnon, who’s been a casino lounge staple for 20 years, tried to turn lemons into lemonade during the shutdown when no indoor entertainment was permitted.

“St. Patrick’s Day in March was my last professional paying gig and we had a crowd,” said the former Nashville entertainer whose credits include the Grand Ol’ Opry, off-Broadway, and some casino showroom performances.

“I realized it was pretty serious right off

Entertainer Beth Tinnon Photo by Paul Dempsey Musician Chris Yoder

the bat,” Tinnon said. “I was worried, like everybody else.”

Like many working musicians, Tinnon is singing as much for her love of music as she is for the paycheck.

“We’re not independently wealthy,” she said. “We don’t have a whole lot of savings. You should have an emergency fund to last three months. I’ve always tried to live by that rule as much as I could.”

But Tinnon missed working and started looking for different ways she could perform and still conform to state rules about wearing masks and social distancing.

She began to experiment with parking lot gigs and showed her sense of humor with a series of posters and online graphics to promote her live shows: “Coming soon to a parking lot near you!”

She played outside a food market in Smithville, using a microphone with a transmitter to broadcast her music to her audience’s car sound systems.

Tinnon could have sold online tickets to people. But as a regular on the casino lounge circuit, where entertainment is free, she wasn’t going to demand people pay to hear her sing.

“I didn’t want to force people to buy tickets,” said Tinnon who has sung backup

vocals for Garth Brooks, Kenny Rogers, and Brenda Lee. “So, I made it a donation-type situation (collecting tips from online sites like PayPal). People were actually being very generous. I ended up making enough money that it was almost like I was performing in a casino.”

Lounge entertainers aren’t suffering alone.

The global disruption of the entertainment industry has sidelined the big names that regularly play casino showrooms.

“I’ve never been out of work like this,” Tony Orlando told New Jersey Lifestyle during a phone call from Las Vegas. “Not being on stage, not having a booking because everything’s been canceled, this is a very strange feeling for me.

I’ve been in this business for 60 years, and this is the longest I’ve ever gone without working.”

Orlando is best known as a singer, but in the big picture, he’s also a small business. He employs a band and other support staff, so he’s got a payroll to meet and big expenses.

“We have a tremendous overhead because the cost of traveling is expensive since we travel by air,” he explained. “It’s an amazing

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ENTERTAINMENT

output of dollars just to get to a gig somewhere.”

Bus tours — certainly a lot cheaper than either chartering a plane or buying airline tickets — are out of the question, for a lot of reasons.

“In the old days, we’d route the tours so we could go cross-country and use (tour) buses, which some acts still do,” he said. “But you can’t route the places I play. You have to go by air.”

And most of the shows today are one-night stands, he said.

“Years ago, we’d come into Atlantic City and do a week or two at a time at one hotel,” he said.

“Now you come in and it’s one or two nights.”

Orlando lost 81 gigs through the end of the year when entertainment shut down in March. He has a few shows booked for 2021, but next year is still a mystery to artists and audiences alike.

Orlando described Las Vegas, which re-opened its casinos with lots of restrictions months ago, as “surreal.” In early September, after spending six months holed up in his lakefront home outside Branson, Missouri, he and his daughter Jenny-Rose spend 20 hours driving over two days and “escaped” to Las Vegas.

“There are cars on the street, but there is nothing happening. It’s not Vegas. I can’t explain it beyond that,” he said. “I mean, people are gambling. But it’s not the same.

Las Vegas has a certain rhythm to it that’s no longer here right now. Every city has a heartbeat, a rhythm, and that’s missing in Vegas right now. It’s kind of limping along. And then I think about

what’s happening in Atlantic City. When did you ever think you’d see Atlantic City, (Las) Vegas and Broadway all dark?”

But he’s confident things will eventually return to normal, even if it’s a new normal.

The 76-year-old entertainer is confident Atlantic City will claw its way back.

“One of the things I love about Atlantic City is that it’s a survivor,” said Orlando, who was born in Manhattan but raised in Hasbrouck Heights in Bergen County, so he considers himself a New Jersey and a New York City boy.

“I remember doing the Steel Pier with Dick Clark when I was 16,” he said.

“Atlantic City’s been hit by hurricanes and floods, but it never fails to come back stronger and bigger than ever. It’s the only casino town that sits on a beach and looks out at the ocean. There’s no place like it in the world.” n

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Events

11/6 > Comedy Dinner Cocktails Rhythm & Spirits, Atlantic City 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. rhythmandspirits.com 11/7 > Elaine’s Theater presents Murder by Gaslight! A Walking Tour Mystery Elaine’s Cape May 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. elainescapemay.com 11/11 > Whiskey Wednesdays Passion Vines, Somers Point 5:00 p.m.

Every Wednesday passionvines.com

11/14 > Glenn Roberts Cranked Up Country Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, Atlantic City 9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. tennesseeavenuebeerhall.com 11/15 > Watercolor Painting Class Noyes Arts Garage, Atlantic City 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. noyesmuseum.org

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11/19 > “Jolly Medieval” Renaissance Downtown Hammonton 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. downtownhammonton.com 11/21 > Atlantic City Ballet presents It’s A Shore Holiday Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars, Atlantic City 7:00 p.m. acballet.org 11/26 > Light Show on The Lake Historic Smithville 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. historicsmithville.com

12/5 > Cape May Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Rotary Park Bandstand, Cape May 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. capemay.com 12/19 > Tonic with Collective Soul and Better Than Ezra Ovation Hall, Atlantic City 8:00 p.m. theoceanac.com

11/27 > Christmas in the Downtown Asbury Avenue, Ocean City 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. oceancityvacation.com

12/20 > Atlantic City Ballet presents The Nutcracker Circus Maximus Theater 4:00 p.m. acballet.org

11/28 > Nightrain — Guns N’ Roses Experience Hard Rock, Atlantic City 10:00 p.m. nightrainrocks.com

Due to the increasing amount of cancelations and postponements, we encourage you to visit each property/venue websites for the most recent and up to date information.

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CRA Financial Hosts End Of Summer Celebration

CRA Financial celebrated the end of summer with their clients and team on the beautiful Atlantic City back bay harbor this past October. Guests took a water taxi to the perfect outdoor venue to enjoy the fantastic weather and beautiful skyline along with music by the Strawberry Jam Band and catering by Sirens Bar & Grill.

Photos by Nick Valinote

Hansen Foundation Golf Tournament A Huge Success

The Hansen Foundation’s 24th Annual Charity Golf Tournament was held at Hidden Creek Golf Club this past September and included a day of golfing, delicious food, and awards while concluding with an auction. The event raised $175,000 to support their mission.

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Photos submitted by Hansen Foundation

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ACPD Chief Henry White, Jr. Retirement Celebration

A celebration was held at Dock’s Oyster House this past September to recognize ACPD Chief Henry White, Jr. as he retired after 35 years of public service in Atlantic City. Chief White was born and raised in Atlantic City, and joined the ACPD in 1985.

Photos by Nick Valinote

Stockton University Golf Classic

Stockton University’s Annual Golf Classic was held this past September at Seaview in Galloway.

Proceeds provide rich educational experiences and support for Stockton University students.

Photos by Nick Valinote

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Be A HERO Golf Tournament

The annual Be a HERO Golf Tournament was held in September at the exclusive Union League National Golf Club. Volunteers helped to make the 20th anniversary tournament another outstanding and exceptional day. Their dedication to the HERO Campaign’s mission of saving lives in John’s memory is unmatched.

Photos submitted

Thomas L. Glenn, Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament Atlanticare’s annual golf tournament was held this past September at Hidden Creek Golf Club. Proceeds benefit the AtlantiCare’s COVID-19 response.

Photos submitted

JFS Hosts 7th Annual Golf Tournament

The Jewish Family Service and the Jewish Community Center hosted the 7th Annual Golf Tournament at Harbor Pines Golf Course this past October. At the event, more than 100 golfers participated and raised over $35,000.

Photos provided by Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties

Billy Joel Tribute At Bayside Rocks Live

The music of Billy Joel featuring David Clark was played live at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center Parking Complex as part of the Bayside Rocks Live Concert series this past September.

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Photos by Tom Briglia/PhotoGraphics

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Deauville Inn Impresses With Menu Samplings

The Greater Atlantic City Concierge Association came out to the Deauville Inn in Strathmere this past August to enjoy some samplings off of their menu. The food selections, presentation, location, and sunset were all breathtaking!

Photos submitted

Kia Raffle To Support Gilda’s Club

Guests came out for Vagabond in Egg Harbor Township’s happy hour this past August to support Gilda’s Club South Jersey, and to enter for a chance to win a 2020 Kia Telluride from Matt Blatt Kia.

Photos by Eric Weeks

Surf It Forward

The Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation held its 20th annual Surf For A Cause this past September at South Delvan Avenue beach in Margate.

Photos by 10Eighteen Media, 10eighteenmedia.com

Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Holds “Summer Sunset” Event The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Atlantic City chapter gathered in September at the Ocean City Yacht Club for a sunset dinner.

Photos by Nick Valinote

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Takeout Joe Montello, owner of Joey M’s La Piazza Cucina in Wildwood

Make That To Go!

From mom and pop joints to elegant dining rooms, apps and online menu options are popping up on phones and devices everywhere, making the takeout options endless!

By Molly Golubcow

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LifeStyle Eats

“There’s no better feeling in the world than a warm pizza box on your lap”

Tandoori Chicken from Nizam’s

Shrimp Cocktail from Cousin’s

—Kevin James

P

andemic be damned — we still need to eat! Cooking at home, three meals a day, every day may have been fun and quaint at first, but after weeks and now months of COVID-19 lockdown, we yearn for variety, and someone else other than ourselves to prepare, serve, and clean up after a meal.

So, what do we do to feed our bellies? Who do we turn to for our gastronomic needs when restaurants are limited? Enter our hero — takeout options! According to Restaurant Business magazine, 33% of consumers are getting more takeout than before the pandemic. In fact, the online restaurant resource, Fast Casual, reports that 92% of restaurant traffic is now off-premise. Wherever you look, restaurants have gotten creative by adjusting menus, hours, and business models to work around the pandemic.

From installing plexiglass windows to safely take orders or literally bringing your food out to your car, necessity truly became the mother of invention for restauranteurs since March 2020.

Whether you’re ordering from a mom and pop joint or an elegant dining room, apps and online menu options are popping up on phones and

Chicken Francaise from Joey M’s La Piazza Cucina

Bill McGinnity, Executive Chef of Cousin’s

LIFESTYLE EATS

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devices everywhere. Many places now offer a QR code to quickly download a contact-free menu on your phone to order meals at the tip of your fingers. Although the technology is 2020, the concept of takeout food dates to ancient Rome. Archaeologists in Pompeii discovered over 200 thermopolia — roadside shops that sold food for takeaway purposes only. In the US, the distinct shaped, white Chinese food boxes were being mass-produced as early as the 1900s — still used today to bring home your favorite Chinese dish.

Joe Montello, longtime owner of Joey M’s La Piazza Cucina in Wildwood, admits the adjustment from dine-in to takeout during COVID-19 was “rough” at first. Although his takeout sales went up 100% since last year, Montello incurred many expenses to revamp his business for outdoor dining and takeout.

He explains what kept him and the restaurant going, “I thank God for loyal customers who supported me during this pandemic. I try to keep a positive attitude and am grateful that I made it through this at this point.”

Although La Piazza started out with a limited takeout menu, they are back in full menu mode offering house favorites like Veal Parmagiana — nicely packed and ready to travel. Montello’s customers are happy they can takeout meals, but many would prefer to dine in. As does Montello who misses interacting with customers at their tables — schmoozing, feeding, and even serenading them with a Sinatra

HOLIDAY PARTIES tune or two.

In Ocean City, Cousin’s continues to follow a steady course ever since the restrictions were enforced for New Jersey restaurants. According to Bill McGinnity, partner and executive chef, they strive to provide a clean and sterile environment for guests and employees alike. Whether their Veal Oscar or Seafood Riviera, Cousin’s offers familystyle options from a full menu — with an emphasis on comfort food and family portions.

McGinnty explains the importance of feeding body and soul even if its packaged in takeout boxes, “We are Italian with some great seafood, so we really serve comfort food.”

As for technological extras during COVID-19, Cousin’s quickly adapted. For the first time since opening in 1980, the restaurant uses an online ordering system offering contactless payment to eliminate using cash and credit cards. McGinnty explains how Cousin’s learned to adjust to the new normal of 2020, “Thinking outside of the box has proven — any problem has a solution. You just need to figure it out.”

According to Bluedot Technology, 50% of Gen Z consumers are willing to try out a new restaurant if takeout is an option — a plus for restaurants trying to navigate through COVID-19 waters. In addition, people are trying out Thai, Vietnamese, Mexican, and other ethnic food with a simple swipe on the phone. Syed Abbas,

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LIFESTYLE EATS

Authentic Indian Cuisine

the owner of The Nizam’s in Egg Harbor Township, saw a noticeable uptick in takeout orders at his Indian restaurant during the pandemic. Loyal customer Dorit Linn of Ventnor appreciates the takeout option at The Nizams. She explains, “During the lockdown, it’s good to know that I can still enjoy my favorite Indian food — even if it’s at home.”

To accommodate the changes due to the pandemic, Abbas modified his business model by setting up a few outdoor tables and offering takeout, of course. He Syed Abbas, owner of The Nizam’s

609.677.8829 | thenizams.com 6725 US-40, Egg Harbor Twp.

Dining • Takeout • Catering

instituted extra precautions like using sealed napkins and flatware rather than open settings. Whether outdoor dining or takeout, Abbas sees his customers looking for some comfort in the form of “a nice warm meal” like Tandoori Chicken cooked in a clay pot.

According to current research from the James Beard Foundation, 1 in 5 restaurants feel certain that enhancing takeout options will sustain their businesses until normal operations resume. Chefs and restaurateurs are creative beings by nature. The COVID-19 pandemic dumped tons of lemons on restaurants, figuratively speaking. As a result, restaurant owners quickly figured out how to make lemonade from their 2020 lemons in the form of takeout solutions — boxes, containers, and to-go packages filled with comfort food.

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LifeStyle Wine

Holiday Wine Dilemmas Your most pressing wine questions are answered just in time for holiday gatherings.

By Michael Bray Q: I will be hosting a (4 course) special family dinner for 10 guests. My new sonin-law is really into wine and I want to impress him. How many and what type of wines should I serve?

A lot will depend on what you are serving, but an elegant, yet simple progression can be to start with a sparkling wine (like a Cava or Cremant), followed by a white (Loire Chenin or Sauvignon Blanc), red (Bordeaux-style blend), and dessert wine (Late Bottled Vintage Port).

And to impress, it doesn’t have to mean expensive; you can source any of the wines mentioned for $10-$25 per bottle and still look like a superstar! If all ten guests are drinking wine, the general rule of thumb is a half-bottle per person, so that works out to about five bottles consumed. Grab two bottles of each wine and you will be well-covered. Of course, if your menu is lighter, perhaps your red can be a Pinot Noir. If the meal is richer across all courses, a white Burgundy could be an option. There’s a lot of wiggle room, but a sparkler, white, red, and dessert wine will cover many tastes and preferences. Lastly, call me with the menu and we’ll nail it together!

Q: When someone brings a bottle of wine as a gift, what’s the proper etiquette? Do I open it that night or stash it away?

Holiday party etiquette can be a little cloudy, but it can all be cleared up with good communication. If the guest gives it to you without instruction, feel free to ask

your guest, “would you like me to serve this with dinner?” This way, the pressure is off on the host and your guest will have explained his/her intentions for the gift. If they tell you, “oh, do whatever” well then, it’s your choice. Typically, if the wine is gift-wrapped, I will stow it for later, but if it is brought to me unwrapped then I will open it for the crowd to enjoy. If you are planning the party and are going to have wines on-hand to pair with different courses of the meal, feel free to tell your guests ahead of time, which should avoid any hard feelings about not opening the bottle that night if you receive one as a gift.

Q: If I’m gifting someone an expensive bottle of wine and I know there is a good chance that they won’t realize it, is it tacky to include the price tag?

I tend to remove the price tag from any gift I give, whether it is wine or something else. Bringing a gift to someone means you have thought of this person, so price tags shouldn’t matter! If you do find yourself in that situation where the one receiving the gift is unaware of the “economic impact” on your wallet, that’s OK. Talk up the wine a little (not too much to make it obvious), say it scored well in a publication or if it is a wine that is cellar worthy. Maybe hint that it would be great for a special occasion and leave it at that.

If your giftee receives the bottle with the price tag and it is surprisingly high, they may be afraid to drink it, especially if they don’t have a place to cellar wines.

Q: I have a bottle of 1997 Staglin Family Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. How do I know if it’s ready? Would you drink it now?

What a great bottle of wine! Staglin’s Cabernet Sauvignon scored well 20 years ago from multiple wine publications.

Anytime you have an older bottle of high-end wines like this, it pays to do a little research and accumulate some data points. For instance, Robert Parker claimed it can “keep well for two decades” with his 90-point rating. Well, here we are in 2020 so I would absolutely pop the cork on that wine if you are ready to do so! Cellaring wines can be an inexact science since wine evolves based on not just its own structural components, but the conditions of where it was aged. If your cellar is warm (meaning 64 degrees and above, perhaps it is starting to go past its peak. If your cellar is cool (52 degrees or lower) it may just begin to show itself.

With all of that said, I would expect the 1997 Staglin Family Estate Cabernet Sauvignon to be ready to drink (and drink beautifully) now!

Wishing you a joyous holiday season of celebrations and happiness.

Cheers!

Send your wine questions to michael@passionvines.com.

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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

www.hankinsandman.com njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Holiday 2020

65

Financial Corner

by

CRA Financial, L.L.C.

Investment Tax Planning 2020 T

here are several planning areas that investors should potentially consider in doing their yearend tax and financial planning. Some or none may apply to you, but it is worth your consideration to see which ones apply to your circumstances and talk with your trusted advisor.

Capital Loss Harvesting: This is one we highlight and recommend every year. Investors sitting with any securities with unrealized losses in their taxable accounts should consider whether it makes sense to sell before year-end and realize a loss for tax purposes.

This loss can be used to offset taxable gains, and, if you offset all of your gains, you can deduct an additional $3,000 against ordinary income.

Also, any realized losses of over $3,000 can be carried forward to offset future capital gains.

IRA Distributions: The Coronavirus Aid, Relief & Economic Security Act waived required minimum distributions (RMDs) for 2020. This gives investors who are required to take money out of their IRAs the unique opportunity to skip the distribution for the year. However, we think investors need to look at their tax estimates for 2020 before deciding this. If your taxable income is lower than usual due to Covid, it may make sense to take something out of the IRA, if you can do it at no tax or in the lowest bracket or convert some funds to a Roth IRA.

Roth Conversions: These are especially attractive this year due to the historically low tax rates that exist currently (and these rates are not likely to last with the huge deficits we are running presently) and possibly lower income for many due to Covid. Once funds are converted, the funds in a Roth IRA grow income taxfree forever and are not subject to future RMDs. Estate Gifting: The 2020 Federal Estate and Gift Tax exemption is $11,580,000 per person ($23,160,000 for a married couple). These figures are scheduled to go back to $5 million & $10 million after 2025 but could go back sooner if there is a change in control in Congress and the White House. Any couple that has an estate of $10 million or more should consider whether outright gifting or Irrevocable Trust funding might make sense.

IRA Beneficiaries after the Secure Act: The Secure Act eliminated the stretch IRA for most non-spouse beneficiaries. Beginning with deaths in 2020, most non-spouse beneficiaries will have to take the entire IRA out by the end of the tenth year after the IRA owner dies. Investors should revisit their beneficiary selections and make sure they will still accomplish their goals post mortem. n 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.

When Selecting Your Advisory Firm, Letters Do Matter..... and we just happen to have them all.....

CFPÂŽ, CPA, CFA, CRPC

n As SEC REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISORS we adhere to a higher standard of fiduciary care. n As PRACTICING CPA’s we understand the complexities of the current tax system and work to maximize tax efficiencies. n As INDEPENDENT ADVISORS, we remain product neutral, transparent, and answer only to you, the client.

We are CRA Financial.

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

n With an emphasis placed on FUNDAMENTAL FINANCIAL PLANNING, we strive to help you achieve your long term investment goals. n With over $840 Million in assets under management, we have the RESOURCES, the EXPERIENCE and the KNOWLEDGE to help you achieve your financial goals.

609-380-3500 • 332 Tilton Road Northfield, NJ • CRAfinancial.com

“I’M STILL PLAYING MY BEST, BECAUSE I GOT THE BEST.” When it comes to heart care, timing is everything.

When Barry’s cardiologist found a potentially fatal blockage, the music could have stopped. Fortunately, Barry came to one of the region’s only full-service cardiac programs, right here at AtlantiCare.

His expert cardiology team, led by the region’s top specialists, worked in harmony to get Barry back to what he loves. He’s never felt, or sounded, better.

To see more of Barry’s story and learn about our cardiology program, visit www.atlanticare.org/heart.

Or call 1-888-569-1000 to schedule an appointment.

Barry Ocean View, NJ

LET’S GET YOU BACK TO BETTER.

We’re taking additional precautions to keep you safe, secure and comfortable during your visit.