NJ Lifestyle Summer 2017

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

SUMMER 2017

Volume 15 | Number 4

Seaside Splendor BATTLE OF THE SWIMSUITS • LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION...HARDWARE! IMPROVING YOUR IMAGE • ATTACK OF THE VW’S

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THE • VIEW

Tweet-Worthy South Jersey

"Dance like the photo's not being tagged, Love like you've never been unfriended, Tweet like nobody's following."

—@PostSecret

I

t seems as if Twitter has become the news outlet for the 21st century. After all, it delivers news in real time — and, for our shorter attention spans, in 140 characters or less. When we want to find out about that impending tropical storm, whether our favorite team won or lost, or what the heck Kanye West is up to, we turn to Twitter. If all of those are “tweet worthy,” why not south Jersey? That’s why we came up with the definitive list of things we’d expect people to say about us on Twitter. @GSP You live in NJ? What exit? #ParkwayHumor #MileMarkersCount #AreWeThereYet? @GasStations — Self-service is for suckers #JerseyGirlsDon’tPumpGas #GuysEither #TheyDon’tTrustUs @JerseyDiners — Time for fries & gravy #DinerCapitalOfTheWorld #WhoCaresIfIt’s3am? #HowAboutPancakes? #DrunkIsAStateOfMind @Hungry? — Keep calm and find a Wawa #Hoagiefest #Coffee #AlwaysOneNearby #Sometimes2 @NJ-Icons — Bruce or Bon Jovi? #RockHeroes #Who’sTheBoss? #WhoSaysYouCan’tComeHome? @NamingRights — Taylor Swift or Taylor Ham? #SameFirstName #Coincidence? #IThinkNot #EveryoneKnowsIt’sPorkRoll @Geography – When someone asks where you’re from: it’s north or south Jersey, not NJ #NoIdeaWhy #LikeWe’re2States #CentralJerseyDoesn’tExist @TasteOfNJ — Tell those Turnpike travelers that Garden State is not a joke. #EverHadaJerseyTomato? #CornToo #LoveThoseHammontonBlueberries @Traffic — Respect the jug handle #NotaDrinkContainer #GoRightToGoLeft #MeantToSeparateNativesFromTheRest @Tolls — There’s always a back road. #NotAlways #EZPassRules #PriceToPayForLivingHere @DownTheShore is not a place, it’s a state of mind. #SandInYourShoes #FunnelCakeForBreakfast #BeachMoreWorryLess @BestKeptSecret — September at the shore is the BEST! #NoLines #FreeParking #NoBeachTags #Don’tTellAnyone As you can see, there’s plenty to say about south Jersey, whether it’s in 140 characters — or more. We’ve put together a collection of stories in this issue that celebrate our region and all that it offers. Feel free to tweet about them and spread the great news about south Jersey.

Happy reading!

how to reach us

Dar la Hendrick s

Publisher

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LIFESTYLE | Summer 2017

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CONTENTS

Iceburg Lettuce Wedge

DEPARTMENTS

10 Easy, breezy arm candy for the beach.

42 Celebrating its 91st year, The Palm continues its legacy as a favorite gathering place.

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

FEATURES

Lifestyle Fashion......................................... 8 Battle of the swimsuits.

Lights, Camera, Action...Hardware!...... 12 Hollywood style abounds at Artistic Hardware.

Money Watch............................................. 14

Improving Your Image......................... 16

On Wheels................................................. 22

Mid-year market overview.

How a 3D mammogram could save your life.

Attack of the VWs.

Lifestyle Entertainment............................... 26

Cog Keeps Chugging Along................. 18

Talking with Tesh.

Sojourn to Mount Washington and experience the ultimate train ride.

Lifestyle Art............................................... 28

The Legacy Continues......................... 42

Runaway drops.

The Palm Atlantic City is the place to be this summer.

Lifestyle Leisure......................................... 32 The best pot it town.

Lifelines.................................................... 34 Letter from a canine lover.

Lifestyle Opinion........................................ 36 Justice awaits.

The Social Scene........................................ 38 Get the picture on the latest events and happenings.

Lifestyle Cooking........................................ 45 The summer wind.

22 Experience three Volkswagens for three different lifestyles.

2017 Volkswagen Touareg 4

Summer 2017 |

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Lifestyle Wine............................................ 46 Rad red wines.

Dining Gallery............................................ 48 All the details on the area’s great dining venues.

A Final Word.............................................. 52 The dawn patrol.

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AMI would like to remind you that you should start getting your annual mammogram at age 40. Screening mammography is the single most effective method in finding changes long before physical symptoms can be seen or felt. Talk to your doctor about scheduling your mammogram today.

For your convenience, we offer 3D mammography in Galloway, Somers Point, Egg Harbor Township and Cape May Court House.

To schedule an appointment, please CALL (609) 677-XRAY (9729) or online at ami.opendr.com.

CMCH • EHT • Galloway • Hammonton • Mays Landing Northfield • Somers Point • Brick • Manasquan • Toms River atlanticmedicalimaging.com amiradiology

LifeStyle NEW JERSEY

MAGAZINE

Publisher / Creative Director

Darla Hendricks darlabh2@gmail.com Copy Editor

Alyson Boxman Levine Contributing Writers

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

We knoW the ropes.

Travel Editor

Dan Schlossberg Photographers

Nick Valinote Eric Weeks Online Media Info.

www.njlifestyleonline.com Accounting

Michael I. Mann, CPA Zelnick, Mann and Winikur, P.C.

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

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

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

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LIFESTYLE | Summer 2017

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Local

Chatter Calling All Artists

HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO TRY watercolor painting?

Here’s your chance. Local artist Stephanie Segal Miller is offering a watercolor series on Thursday evenings from 5-7 PM in August at the Noyes Arts Garage in Atlantic City.

“My love of art and creative process began early and remains essential to the fabric of my life,” revealed Miller. “I explore and experiment with various media in my studio, including painting, writing, illustration, stained glass, drawing, photography, and sacred squandering of time. You might find me designing a new piece or daydreaming on the couch. My creative M.O. — work, rest, and play in their surprising and limitless combinations — is my art/life trifecta.”

Here Comes the Hip Hop Innovator Future FOLLOWING THE RUNAWAY SUCCESS

of the Nobody Safe Tour’s across North America this spring, superstar Future unveiled the second leg of his 2017 tour, The Future Hndrxx Tour. This time, the multiplatinum, record-setting hip-hop innovator and prolific cultural force touches down at Atlantic City’s historic Boardwalk Hall on August 24. His Nobody Safe Tour garnered rave reviews, and The New York Times called Future one of the most reliable hitmakers of the decade.

The year 2017 has been a busy one for Future. He launched his new show FREEBANDZ Radio on Beats 1, Apple Music’s global radio station co-hosted by Future and DJ Esco, scored two #1 albums on the Billboard Top 200 with FUTURE and Hndrxx, graced the cover of Billboard magazine, and performed on the Ellen DeGeneres Show.

Get Your Tickets Here DON'T MISS THE EXCITEMENT OF the 2018 Miss America Competition, when 52 talented contestants from across the country will compete for this coveted title at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on September 10. Prior to the main event, three nights of exciting preliminaries take place on Sept. 6, 7, and 8. And on Sept. 9, the contestants will participate in one of Miss America’s most beloved and anticipated annual traditions, the Miss America “Show Us Your Shoes” Parade on the boardwalk. Visitors may purchase ticket packages for all nights of the competition.

“The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority is once again proud to work with the Miss America Organization to host their iconic competition in Atlantic City’s great event arena — Boardwalk Hall — where so much history has been made,” stated CRDA Chairman Robert E. Mulcahy.

For more information, visit www.missamerica.org.

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Beach Etiquette WE'VE ALL BEEN THERE. Relaxing comfortably on the beach when a family of six plops down with their mountain of gear just a bit too close for comfort. As you helplessly witness their kids’ sand-encrusted feet scampering across your towel, you wonder when beach courtesy took such a drastic nosedive.

Here are some tried and true beach tips to survive the Summer of 2017.

And if that family does invade your personal space, keep your cool. Simply gather up your belongings and move.

You will be thankful you did.

• Don’t blast music. The ocean waves provide a soothing soundtrack to the beach many enjoy while sunbathing or reading a book. Use headphones.

• Play ball from a distance. If you are going to play football, Frisbee, paddleball, volleyball or any other games, distance yourself from others who don’t want to take a soccer ball to the face.

• Don’t feed the seagulls. It may be fun for the birds, but all it does is create a spectacle and disrupts the enjoyment for everyone else.

• Secure your umbrella. With the right amount of wind, a poorly-secured umbrella can quickly become a dangerous weapon.

• Pick up all trash. And yes, this means the ice cream wrappers your kids tried to hide in the sand.

• Enjoy! You’re at the beach. Life is good.

T HE BUZ Z O N HA P P E N IN GS IN AN D A ROU N D O U R A R EA Comedy In Cape May DON'T MISS THE SIDE-SPLITTING comedy, The Tale of Allergist’s Wife, presented by the Cape May Stage this summer. Written by Charles Busch and directed by Roy Steinberg, The New York Times called it “a window-rattling comedy of mid-life malaise … it earns its wall-to-wall laughs.”

This hysterical play takes place on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, where Marjorie Taub is looking for meaning in her life. A mysterious figure from her past appears and at first infuses her with life, but soon becomes an unwelcome and sinister guest in her home. Marjorie’s 80-yearold mother is obsessed with her bowels, and the dialogue is smart and funny.

For more information, visit capemaystate.org.

Anticipated Food Court Opens

IN JULY, LINWOOD RESIDENTS REJOICED as they welcomed the opening of the highly-anticipated eatery; The Exchange. Housed in a newlyconstructed 8,000-square foot building, the high-end food court features upscale merchants, including: The District Bar, Banzo, Lil Saigon, Tony's Baltimore Grill, Ernest & Sons, and Jar'd Café.

The Exchange is the brainchild of local developer Gerry Bird, who also owns The Exchange in Galloway, a similar model without a bar. Patrons choose and order their meals and then come together to sit at the many tables offered. Open for lunch and dinner, there is something delicious for everyone’s taste buds.

Foodies flock to Wildwood

Celebrating 15 Years Of Thunder

THE 2017 ATLANTIC CITY AIRSHOW, featuring the Thunderbirds, will return to the skies above the beaches and boardwalk in Atlantic City on August 23 to celebrate its 15th year. The USAF Air Demonstration Squadron (“Thunderbirds”) is the air demonstration squadron of the United States Air Force (USAF). The Thunderbirds are based at Nellis AFB, Nevada and perform aerial demonstrations in the F-16C Fighting Falcon, and they also fly two F-16D twin-seat trainers.

“We are excited to welcome back the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, and Geico to celebrate our 15th anniversary of presenting Atlantic City’s signature summer event,” said Greater Atlantic City Chamber President Joe Kelly. “This event has helped to drive tourism to our destination during the midweek and showcase Atlantic City’s great amenities to hundreds of thousands of visitors.”

In addition to the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, confirmed for the 2017 show are U. S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, the GEICO Skytypers, and Jim Beasley Jr.’s P51D Mustang demonstration. This year’s airshow will also feature a U.S. Navy F18 Super Hornet.

A Wild Week of Dining FEAR NOT FOOD ZEALOTS; an additional week of fine dining has been added to the highly-popular Wildwoods Restaurant Week. Add the week of August 23-28 to your calendar as you wine and dine in some of Wildwoods finest restaurants.

All participating restaurants will offer a complete four course meal, including appetizer, salad, entrée, and dessert for $30 (plus tax and gratuity). For a list of participating restaurants, visit chewwildwood.com. njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Summer 2017

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Lifestyle Fashion

By Alyson Boxman Levine

Battle of the Swimsuits Men vs. Women in the 2017 Swimwear War

W

hen it comes to chic beach fashion, let’s face it; women have a distinct advantage over men. With the bevy of styles, fabrics, and cuts offered to the fairer sex, the choices for women’s swimwear are seemingly endless. From on-trend floral suits — to mesh detailing and classic monotone monokinis — there is something for all body types and budgets this season.

Men, on the other hand, get cheated when it comes to style, as trunks are their only swimwear option; ranging from form-fitting Floral Suit, Cynababy

Mesh One-piece, Venus

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Monokini, Vince Camuto

Attack of the Monokini

Summer 2017 |

Peek-a-boo Mesh

Floral Frenzy

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styles to oh-so-long board shorts. But before we declare women the clear winner in our beach battle, we must consider the fact that men are starting to step up their game. Recently high-end menswear designers have been busy creating more swimwear options for men, including unique fabrics and patterns that are sure to turn heads.

According to fashion industry experts, men actually care more about how they look in swimsuits than women, and smart labels are cashing in on this growing trend.

This summer as you stroll along the shoreline, take note of the endless styles, cuts, and colors and silently cast your vote for the best swimwear look of 2017. Will it be a men’s playfully-patterned board short or a women’s peek-a-boo monokini as the Battle of the Swimsuits rages on. nnn Floral Frenzy The all-over-print trend continues to make a splash this season and this floral suit by the Cynababy label is perfect for classy, fun, girly girls. Look fabulous and confident while exuding a festive vibe. Join Hollywood celebrities like the always-sexy Sofia Vergara, who have eagerly have jumped on the floral trend bandwagon this season and let your feminine flag fly.

Designer Cynthia Elizabeth launched her signature swimwear collection Cynababy in southern California to bring out every girl’s inner sun goddess. Easily spotted from afar, the label’s eye-catching styles come in vibrant colors and often sparkle with Swarovski crystals. Meant as much for being seen as they are for swimming, Cynababy bathing suits have been featured on the pages of Sports Classic Trunk, Onda de Mar

Illustrated magazine. These fun and flirty swimsuits are seamless, comfortable and made to look cute and sexy anywhere; perhaps at an exotic pool in the Maldives, a vacation in Cannes, or beachside in Ocean City, NJ. nnn Peek-a-boo Mesh Nothing is sexier than showing just a hint of skin, and this season swimwear designers have continued to use mesh cutouts in their 2017 designs. Every woman needs a go-to black suit in their swimwear repertoire, and this beauty from the Venus label is surely the one to wear. With a flattering halter neckline, crisscross mesh fabric details, and contrasting black and white piping, this suit is peek-a-boo perfection.

Launched in 1982 in a college dorm in Florida, the Venus label focuses on a dedication to fashion and fit. Recognizing that every woman is unique, the company pioneered “mix and match” within the swimsuit category to ensure unique styles and custom combinations to fit every individual. The company strives to flatter every woman’s beauty and curves while giving detailed attention to Preppy Print Trunk, Vilebrequin

Copacabana Swim Trunks, Robert Graham

Hang Loose

Playful Prints

A Classic Fit

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LIFESTYLE | Summer 2017

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LIFEST YLE FASHION the fabric, design, construction, and overall styling of their fashion items. nnn Attack of the Monokini Looking for a bit more coverage than the traditional bikini offers?

Try the trendy monokini this summer — virtually a one-piece cutout swimsuit — and you just may take home the Battle of the Swimsuits trophy. This pastel beauty from envied designer Vince Camuto is ideal for frolicking in the Atlantic Ocean; featuring a chic studded high neck and flattering side cutouts.

An extraordinary personality in the fashion industry and cofounder of the well-known women’s fashion label Nine West — Vince Camuto is an Italian American who spreads his luxurious designs across the world. His label has become an ultimate lifestyle and fashion brand that produces and sells not only shoes and swimwear, but eyewear, fragrances, jewelry, handbags, apparel, and various

accessories. His concept about design involves style, innovation, and excellence, stressing that the woman who wears his creations are “ageless, sexy, contemporary, up-to-date, and sophisticated.” nnn A Classic Fit Designed for the more reserved man seeking laid-back comfort, these pineapple-patterned classic trunks are both fun and flattering.

Featuring a roomy fit with an in-demand waistband and drawstring, these swim shorts by the Onda de Mar Swimwear brand will have you looking your best while catching some rays or playing your favorite water sports. These bathing suits incorporate trendy patterns, innovative cuts, and unique details that are not only stylish, but also functional; made from soft, supple, and breathable fabrics that won't bog you down while surfing, swimming, or boating.

Known for its style, detailing, and premium fabrics, the Onda de Mar label offers men a complete line of sophisticated beachwear.

Beach Bling

Easy, Breezy Arm Candy

Purple Haze

Add Some Shine

For the beach goer who wants to be stylish and practical, Roberto Demeglio’s Aura Collection features bracelets that are stretchable, sustainable, and scratch resistant. The brand incorporates cuttingedge technology into quintessentially Italian, chic 18K gold and diamond jewelry. Available in either a glossy or matte finish, these ceramic bracelets are the ideal complement to any beachside beauty.

Pops Of Color

Achieving the perfect summer look is seamless with the right accessory, and this must-have bracelet is ideal for any warm weather adventure. For the active woman who likes to play tennis, but enjoys pops of color before a quick dip in the pool, try these stackable cuff bracelets from Phillip Gavriel’s Italian Cable Collection. Born into the world of jewelry, Phillip Gavriel Maroof, the designer behind the label, founded his collection after studying in Florence, Italy. Featured in 18k gold and sterling silver, the colorful gems include: Blue Topaz, Peridot, Black Spinel, Citrine, Amethyst, and Garnet.

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The compliments will keep coming and coming when you adorn this striking purple Jasper bracelet from the Bourbon and Boweties brand founded by Carley Ochs. This can't-miss color possesses wide appeal; featuring mottled shades of violet, lavender, and even midnight blue. The wire-wrapped, polished pebbles on this designer bracelet make for a standout look.

Expertly handcrafted in the U.S., every Bourbon and Boweties piece is adorned with gorgeous stones from around the world.

Onda de Mar ensures exclusive and unique looks found in fashion and resort-life worldwide. Meticulously designed, their apparel is inspired by the laid-back, chic beach lifestyle. nnn Playful Prints Calling all preppies; the printed swimsuit is back in a big way this summer and no label does it better than the playful Vilebrequin brand. Their new trunk features a fun turtle pattern, elastic waistband, drawstring, side pockets, and a back pocket with a Velcro flap; a series of chic and casual details which inevitably turn new arrivals into instant Vilebrequin classics.

The St. Tropez-based beachwear brand — known for matching dad-and-son trunks — features timeless models, playful prints, and limited-edition swim shorts. Vilebrequin recognized its customers' youthful energy and dedication to family values and experiences, and in 1995 launched their Father and Son concept.

This father-son bond brought a new dimension to the label, as it took on family values. Much more than a passing fad, the enthusiasm for this concept and has become a tradition for their clients globally.

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nnn Hang Loose Board shorts are popular again this summer season for men and these knee-reaching styles are popping up in all patterns and colors. Hang loose in these bold trunks from the Robert Graham label, featuring an all-over tribal pattern. The antithesis of “the uniform”, Robert Graham is a brand for the adventurous; for the people with a penchant for eye-searing brights, immaculately-detailed tailoring, and custom embellishments.

Robert Graham represents the American eclectic lifestyle brand; where craftsmanship, luxury, and style intertwine. A design house since 2001, the brand has been inspiring fashion by developing unique garment-making techniques and complex textile patterns. With eye-catching mixed fabrics, one-of-a-kind trims, and stunning embroideries, the label embodies luxury at its finest. Each product is unique, character-filled, and distinctly Robert Graham; with the brand’s mission of “knowledge, wisdom, truth” embedded in each garment.

So, which swimsuit will take home this summer’s coveted Battle of the Swimsuits title?

With all the chic offerings available from quality designers this summer, I think we may just have to call it a draw. n

Lou Marchiano

nTropitone

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Home & Design Spotlight By Felicia L. Niven

Lights, Camera, Action…Hardware!

Pat McCarthy, Owner Photo by Eric Weeks

Hollywood style abounds at Artistic Hardware 14

Summer 2017 |

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THE POSTERS ADORNING the walls at Artistic Hardware are more than just décor. They’re souvenirs from the movies and TV shows that have featured this specialty shop’s hardware. That technically means that you could purchase a doorknob like one in The Bourne Ultimatum, cabinet handles that are identical to those on Gossip Girl, or a sink like one used by Samantha in Sex and the City. It’s not surprising, given that this

hardware store offers so much more than the ordinary.

“This is not what you’ll find in the big box stores,” said owner Pat McCarthy who set out to create a distinctive mix of door hardware, lighting, and plumbing. “We’ve put together a collection of beautiful, functional pieces that you can see in the store. And if it’s not here, we can always order it for you.”

Finding the right fixture or hardware from thousands in catalogs is a specialty of Artistic Hardware’s. After all, it’s what they do for their movie and TV show clients. The shows and movies are shot on location, but then there’s follow-up filming on sound stages which must exactly duplicate those locations. Set decorators reach out to Artistic Hardware for everything from doorknobs and cabinetry handles, to light fixtures, mirrors, ceiling fans and even full bathrooms. They send photos and the expert staff at Artistic Hardware finds the items and ships them overnight.

There are perks to working in the movie industry that include getting a “heads up” on new projects. “We’re working on hardware for a new movie that hasn’t even been officially named yet,” revealed Pat. “The working title is Nor’easter. It’s being directed by Steven Spielberg and it’s about the Washington Post’s clash with the federal government to publish the Pentagon Papers. Tom Hanks plays Washington Post editor Ben Bradlee and Meryl Streep is publisher Kay Graham.”

Pat enjoys looking for his hardware and fixtures in the movies and TV shows.

Movies include Snake Eyes, The Notebook, Pink Panther, Analyze This, Ricki and the Flash, The Intern, Sex and the City, The Bourne Ultimatum, Cold Mountain, Meet the Parents, and School of Rock. TV series range from Boardwalk Empire and Gossip Girl to more recent ventures such as Under the Dome, Sleepy Hollow, The Mysteries of Laura, Mr. Robot, Blue Bloods, Vinyl, and

Shades of Blue. (For a more complete list, browse the posters in the Northfield store.)

But the movie business is a small part of the clients served by Artistic Hardware.

Their reputation has earned them clients up and down the Jersey shore, from Cape May to Long Beach Island. Pat also has helped design spaces for customers in the Bahamas, St. John’s, Bermuda, Key West, California, Colorado, Canada, England, Belgium, and Morocco. Even Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin have fixtures from Artistic Hardware in their Long Island home. It’s a testament to the shop’s extensive and distinctive selection of door hardware, lighting, and bath items.

An expanded door hardware gallery is housed in a brand new 600-square foot space in the store. Technology is a common theme in many of the latest offerings. “There are digital front door locks and touchscreen deadbolts that can synchronize with your SmartPhone,” said Pat. “You don’t need a key; you just input a code. Another one of the latest innovations is a magnetic lock built into pocket door handles.” He notes that finishes on exterior hardware are important, especially down the shore. “A stainless steel finish holds up well in the salt air,” he said.

In another section of the store, there’s an extensive collection of cabinetry handles. “These are true works of art,” said Pat, as he pointed out the Edgar Berebi knobs custom made from Swarovski crystals. “These are handmade to order, so they’re uniquely yours. You can order a seahorse in pewter with sapphire crystals.”

Lighting of all kinds hangs from the ceiling at Artistic Hardware. Choices range from glittering chandeliers to wood and fabric pendants to elegant outdoor fixtures. “Lighting can get overwhelming,” said Pat, “so we ask the questions to zero in on their particular style. Importantly, we know the technical aspects, so we know which fixtures will work for accent

lighting and which for task lighting.”

Artistic Hardware’s other area of specialty is the bathroom. The shop supplies everything from lighting to mirrors, sinks, faucets, bathtubs, shower doors, showerheads, and toilets. There’s even a working shower in the store where customers can try out different showerheads. There’s an electric mirror with a defogger that keeps the mirror from steaming. If you’d like to watch TV in the bathroom, you can add that to the mirror, too — or to a mirror in other living spaces. There’s also a tub that vibrates to provide a therapeutic massage with six different pressure points. There’s a Bluetooth sound hookup, and the shell of the tub acts as a speaker, so that bathers can play a relaxing soundtrack at the same time. From whirlpools and tubs to bathroom fixtures to kitchen fixtures, to ceiling fans, there’s even more at the store than can be mentioned here.

But it’s perhaps the European-style toilet that gets the most second glances.

That’s because it greets you by opening its lid. The motion sensor, which can be turned off, is responsible for this friendly gesture. The toilet provides a heated seat, which is welcome in cold weather, and a bidet and blow dryer. It can be programmed to clean itself via the remote control. “We have one in our bathroom here,” said Pat, “and it gets a great response from customers.”

Pat McCarthy, Tommy, Carol, Marjorie and the knowledgeable staff work with homeowners as well as builders, architects, designers, and kitchen and bath professionals — to get you what you need.

“We’re very customer-service driven,” says Pat, “which is why we work well with the movie and TV business. We get them what they need, when they need it, and we do the same for our clientele.” n Artistic Hardware is located at 430 Tilton Road in Northfield, NJ. For more information, visit www.artistichardware.net njlifestyleonline.com

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MONEYWATCH

Mid-Year Market Overview Will the rally continue for the remainder of 2017?

THE MARKETS ARE OFF TO A GREAT START SO FAR IN 2017. The S&P 500 closed the second quarter with a strong year-to-date gain of 9.34% (total return including dividends). Investors saw a market that remained resilient in the face of uncertainty and volatility was kept at bay. Corporate earnings remained strong, global economies have been improving, and major central banks across the world have continued support. Markets shrugged off repeated global terrorist attacks and a seemingly stalled presidency as a gridlocked Congress wrangled with the questions of the government’s appropriate role in the U.S. healthcare system.

Technology stocks and healthcare stocks have been the biggest winners so far this year. The technology index has advanced 17.2% with healthcare close behind, posting a gain of 16.1%. Coming into 2017, financial stocks were expected to play a larger role in any continuation of the rally that started with the election in November.

However, we have only just started to see the rotation back into financials since they initially rallied after the election. Financial are up 6.9% year to date. The two laggards for the S&P 500 this year have been energy and telecom. Energy has fallen -12.6% as we have seen oil prices dip back into the low $40’s per barrel. The Telecom sector experienced a strong rally in 2016 as investors sought out their high yields, however a rotation back into growth stocks has caused the sector to drop -10.7% this year.

International markets have finally started to outperform U.S. equities. Developed countries overseas have returned 13.81% through the second quarter as measured by the MSCI EAFE index.

A revival in the European stock market has been driven by loose monetary policy and a growing global demand for European exports. Eurozone GDP growth hits its second highest level since 2011 in the first quarter, at 0.6%, while the European Purchasing Manager’s Index soared to a 74 month high in June. While U.S. stocks have soared over the last 5 years, emerging market returns 16

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have been muted. In 2017, however, investors who had exposure to emerging markets equities were rewarded with an MSCI Emerging Markets Index gain of 18.43%, almost double that of the S&P 500.

Fixed Income investors saw the aggregate bond index advance 2.27% through June. The Federal Reserve raised its key interest rate on June 14th for the 3rd time in six months, with the rate now sitting at 1.25%. In addition, the Fed announced plans of reducing its bond holdings later this year which could spur longer term rates to rise. Despite these policy moves, the yield curve has actually been flattening over the past 6 months. The 10 year Treasury Rate ended the quarter with a yield of 2.31% while the 30 year Treasury bond rate closed at 2.83%, both still significantly below long-term averages.

Moving forward, second quarter earnings are going to be in focus and will be key if the market rally is to continue. Expectations for earnings are elevated, and the recent move higher in equities prices is a signal the market expects a strong quarter for earnings.

The global economy is having one if its best years since 2010, with all of the world’s top 20 economies growing. Conditions for stocks continue to appear favorable with strong earnings, low inflation, and modestly growing world economies. Although we believe risks to the market are muted at this time, it is prudent to maintain a diversified portfolio. Pullbacks are to be expected, but they are healthy in any long-term bull market. n Tom Reynolds, CPA & Matt Reynolds CPA, CFP® Co-Managing Partners, CRA Financial Francis C. Thomas CPA, PFS, Investment Advisor Robert T. Martin, CFA, CFP®, Investment Advisor This article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as the basis for an investment decision. Consult your financial adviser, as well as your tax and/or legal advisers, regarding your personal circumstances before making investment decisions.

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Health Watch

By Robin Stoloff

Improving Your Image How a 3D Mammogram Could Save Your Life

If you made a list of the top ten favorite ways you like to spend your time, there is a good chance getting a mammogram would not be on it. Yet mammograms save lives, or more precisely, the radiologists who read them save lives. They are the first line of defense in finding breast cancer. They are highly trained and experienced in detecting even the smallest discrepancies on an image that appears to most of us as a black and white blob with squiggly lines.

One such radiologist is Dr. Peggy Avagliano, a partner at Atlantic Medical Imaging, the largest imaging practice in the southeastern New Jersey with twelve offices and several more opening this year.

They are an American College of Radiology Center of Excellence for breast imaging in their diagnostic centers: Somers Point, Brick, Wall Township, and Galloway Township, and they have achieved the highest standards for screening and diagnostic mammography.

Fellowship trained in Women's Imaging at UCSF and the head of women's imaging for AMI for 17 years, Dr. Peggy, as she is affectionately called by her patients, now has new state-of-the-art technology to help her to do her job even better. It's called breast tomosynthesis; better known to us as 3D mammography.

Dr. Peggy Avagliano

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Tomosynthesis is FDA-approved revolutionary imaging that combines the advantages of digital mammography with a 3D image of the breasts. With 3D tomosynthesis, multiple images or “slices” of the breast tissue are combined to recreate a 3D layered image of the breast. Different from traditional mammography that obtains just a single image, it allows radiologists to scroll through the images and see much greater detail. Dr. Peggy calls it one of the biggest advancements in imaging since she became a radiologist. Offering more precise pictures, 3D mammography can help detect subtle signs of breast cancer that may be invisible with 2D technology.

From the patient’s point of view, the only difference we may notice is that we are asked to hold our breath twice for each exposure.

A 3D tomography machine looks the same as a traditional digital mammogram machine, but the computer generates a layered 3D image of the breast.

Another advantage of tomosynthesis — fewer false positives and a reduced number of callbacks. Women are called back when a mammogram picks up something suspicious, and the doctor wants to do additional imaging or a biopsy. According to the American Cancer Society, fewer than 10% of women called back for more testing are diagnosed with breast cancer, but it can obviously cause unneeded stress and anxiety.

As with most imaging centers, when 3D mammography was originally offered at Atlantic Medical Imaging, patients had the option of choosing this service for a small additional fee. However, this past spring, Atlantic Medical Imaging began providing 3D mammograms at no additional fee. Dr. Peggy says that AMI made this decision in the best interest of their patients to make sure everyone receives the benefits of this state-of-the-art technology.

What is the most satisfying part of being a radiologist for Dr. Peggy? Detecting small, subtle cancers. This is often done through a breast biopsy, a test that removes tissue or fluid from the area in question. The cells are then examined to determine if the patient has breast cancer. Dr. Peggy is proud of the fact that AMI is the area leader in MRI and tomographic-guided biopsies performed by fellowship trained radiologists. The good news is that 80% of women in the U.S. who have a breast biopsy do not have breast cancer.

Yet, when cancer is detected early, there is a much greater chance of survival. By finding cancer in its most treatable stages, Dr. Peggy knows she and AMI are making a difference in people’s lives.

On the flip side of the coin, one of the saddest parts of her job is discovering cancer in its advanced stage because a woman has not come in for her annual mammogram. She says, “When patients have skipped mammograms for many years, and present with an

Photos courtesy of Hologic®

advanced breast cancer, it makes it more difficult for them to successfully treat their cancer.” Something that could have been treated early results in much more extensive procedures and greater risks for the patient.

Dr. Peggy has heard the spectrum of reasons; “I am too busy, it hurts, it doesn’t run in my family, I can’t afford it.”

She has an answer for patients not coming; “If you’re too busy, we have late night and weekend hours. If you can't afford it; we do free mammograms for the uninsured every October. If you are afraid compression; ask for a mammopad to soften the experience. If you are afraid of biopsies; know that we are the experts in small needle image guided biopsies.

Our navigator will hold your hand as we schedule your biopsy … you typically will be in and out in about an hour with only a small Band-Aid and an ice pack. We will bring you in and give you the results in person, and help to get the on-going care that you need.”

Reading more than 150,000 mammograms in her career, Dr. Peggy has discovered breast cancer in women from all walks of life and varying ages. Her youngest breast cancer patient was 18 and oldest was 99. Ironically, that happened on the same day and, according to Dr. Peggy, both of them said it was not a good time for them to have this diagnosis.

Would there ever be a good time? While statistics show one in eight women will get breast cancer and one in 36 will die from it, Dr. Peggy chooses to look at that more positively. She says that means 35 of 36 women who have breast cancer will not die from it.

Yet, women must be their own healthcare advocates. The sooner breast cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Dr. Peggy notes that most women put other obligations and their family first, but she offers this advice; “If you don’t take care of yourself, you cannot take care of your family. Early detection is your best chance of survival.”

She compares it to the air masks in an airplane. We are always instructed to put on our air mask first so we can help everyone else. Her message to every woman at average risk is to follow the recommended guidelines. Start your mammograms at age 40, and make it a priority to get one every year. So it may not be your favorite thing to do, but getting your annual mammogram could save your life. n Robin Stoloff is a former TV Health Reporter for NBC 40 in South Jersey. She currently hosts a Sunday morning radio show on Lite Rock 96.9 called Living Well with Robin Stoloff. Robin is also returning to television, producing and hosting health features for SNJ Today (channels 4 and 26). You can see her features every Tuesday night in the 7 AM and 11 PM newscasts. A fitness instructor and former fitness competitor, Robin produced her own workout video on the beaches of Atlantic City. Robin resides in Atlantic County with her two children and husband, attorney Richard Stoloff. Visit Robin on her Facebook page – “Health Update with Robin Stoloff” for health tips and video features. njlifestyleonline.com

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Lifestyle Travel

Cog Keeps Chugging Along Can you survive the Railway to the Moon? Sojourn to Mount Washington and experience the ultimate train ride.

By DAN SCHLOSSBERG Photos courtesy of Mount Washington Cog Railway

Steam locomotive and a biodiesel train cross Jacob's ladder trestle at a 37.4% grade.

Cog Railway's steam number 2 A steam locomotive approaching the station.

Although New Jersey has always been a busy transportation hub, few of its residents have ever seen a steam engine or ridden the rails on a train powered by one. If not for films like The Great Locomotive Chase and Emperor of the North, steam trains would probably join the buffalo nickel and Sunday doubleheader in the dustbin of history.

But wait! One of the world’s greatest steam railroads still runs daily — on a narrow-gauge, cog-wheel route that makes a steep ascent to the forbidding summit of Mount Washington, New Hampshire. The nation’s best example of living history from the 19th century, the Mount Washington Cog Railway stretches up a three-mile trestle on the mountain’s western slope to a height of 6,288 feet — more than enough to produce wild weather conditions at a moment’s notice.

The weather station at the top once recorded a wind gust of 231 miles per hour, more than double the speed of Nolan Ryan’s best fastball. Neither Hurricane Katrina nor the tornado in The Wizard of Oz could match such ferocity. Nor could any other recorded weather phenomenon with the lone exception of a tropical cyclone at the end of the 20th century.

“I Survived” souvenir T-shirts marking the 1934 event are too risqué to quote in this publication. But they sell like hotcakes.

The weather at the summit is notoriously horrendous, with hurricane-force winds more than 100 days per year, an annual average of 280 inches of snow, and temperatures dipping well below safe levels. The wind chill recorded on January 16, 2004 was actually -102.59 F. (the mercury read -43.6 while the sustained wind was whipping at 87.5 miles per hour).

The Mount Washington weather station, the world’s first of its kind, is almost as old as the cog. It was established by the U.S. Signal Service, an early version of the National Weather Service, in 1870, a year after the cog first climbed to the summit. With weather conditions impeding construction, it wasn’t until 1932 that the Mount Washington Observatory

Vintage number 9 steam locomotive leaves Marshfield Base station.

Steam at the summit

Historic photo of Mount Washington Cog Railway

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was added. Built to withstand winds of 300 miles per hour, buildings and broadcast towers are literally anchored to the mountain. At the same time, the cog wheel railway is anchored to its track.

Except for the Pilatus railway in Switzerland, the Mount Washington cog is the steepest rack railway on the planet. It has an average grade of more than 25% and a maximum grade of 36.41% — making passengers feel like they’re on the high road to heaven.

Not surprisingly, getting up the mountain takes time and coal. Both of the route’s two active steam engines average 2.8 miles per hour going up and 4.6 mph going down, producing times of 65 minutes up and 40 minutes down.

Diesels were added to the active inventory in 2008, when a difficult economy prompted management to cut costs wherever they could. Each diesel is capable of making three round-trips for the same cost as a single round-trip by a steamer. But the huffing and puffing of the steam engine, the key feature of the cog for almost 150 years, is worth the extra price.

A round-trip ticket for an adult aged 13-64 is $69 for diesel power, but $75 for steam. Seniors pay $65 or $69, respectively, while children (aged 4-12) are charged $39 each. That’s not only lower than the price of a Disney World day pass but allows each participant unlimited time at the summit, where there’s a lounge, gift shop, and observatory. Most people return on a different train than the one they rode to the summit from the base. Passengers would be wise to tour Marshfield Base Station too; in addition to food and souvenirs, it contains a museum on the railway’s history.

Conceived by Sylvester Marsh after he climbed the mountain in 1852, the cogwheel line was initially considered pure folly — and technologically impossible.

Skeptics panned the project, calling it so preposterous that building it would be akin to building a railway to the moon.

The nickname stuck — but Marsh stuck to his guns too, building his own locomotive and practice line while convincing wary investors that his zany idea could become reality. It did, with construction to the top ending in 1869.

In August of that year, Ulysses S. Grant — instrumental in the completion of the 22

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transcontinental railroad months earlier — became one of the first customers to ride the cog to the roof of New England.

The 1875 arrival of railroad service through Crawford Notch brought a flood of curious tourists. Some 50 trains a day stopped at the three stations in Bretton Woods, creating the impetus for construction of grand hotels. The best, the 200-room Mount Washington, is a 1902 structure that is the last survivor of the gilded age in the Presidential Range of the White Mountains.

Attracted by the cool summer climate and mountain-climbing train, patrons have kept the cog in business — even after the old coach road, first opened in 1861, turned into the Mount Washington Auto Road, located on the peak’s eastern slope.

Service has been continuous since the line’s 1869 opening, stopped only by a pair of world wars. Even the massive overhaul undertaken by mechanical engineer Al LaPrade late in the 20th century couldn’t keep the trains off the mountain. The trains keep chugging from late April through November.

Even anti-pollution laws couldn’t stop the cog, which received an exemption from the strict state codes. Its steam engines burn a short ton of coal and use 1,000 gallons of water per ride. Cog smog is a frequent phenomenon, with the mountain-climbing trains visible from the Mount Washington Hotel and nearby Bretton Woods Resort.

Locomotives push cars up the hill and then back down, with both engine and car braked separately for the sharp descent.

Passenger cars hold 70 people, each of whom spends most of the trip snapping photographs and shooting videos perfect for reliving the experience.

Riding the cog is certainly memorable.

The route didn’t even have sidings until 1941, the first year a train going down could pass a train going up. In addition to a pair of spur sidings, a special nine-motion switch was invented to make passing possible. More switches were added in 2004 and 2014, with several powered by solar panels — a development Marsh never could have imagined.

The line’s creator was ahead of his time, however. The ladder-like design of his rack rail system allowed snow and debris to fall through the spaces, a concept so visionary

that the Swiss government commissioned a similar line that opened two years later.

Never known to bypass an opportunity for a thrill ride, early employees of the cog train devised wooden slide boards that fit over the track, allowing enough room for a rider and his tools. Known as “Devil’s shingles” for obvious reasons, these early skateboards allowed riders to race down the rails at speeds of more than 60 miles an hour. The record time was two minutes and forty-five seconds. Not surprisingly, they were soon banned for safety reasons.

Because the Appalachian Trail crosses the summit of Mount Washington, hikers are familiar with both the cog and the auto route, which approaches the summit on the western slope. Even skiers grew acquainted with the cog, which allowed passengers in skis to jump off and ski down to the base.

That experiment ended after four years.

Two steam engines remain in regular use: the Ammonoosuc, built in 1875, and the Waumbek, a 1908 coal-burner also built by the Manchester Locomotive Works.

The line’s earliest engine, the Peppersass, is on exhibit at Marshfield Station. The world’s first cog locomotive, featuring a vertical boiler, was built in 1866 and put to work when the line opened. It went out of service in 1929.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is not the nation’s only incline. A dieselpowered cog climbs Pikes Peak, near Colorado Springs, and three funiculars carry Pittsburgh residents to the top of surrounding hills. But riders in Mount Washington will testify that nothing beats the original. Many will return to ride again during the line’s gala 150th celebration in two years. A three-year series of commemorative events is already underway.

Most visitors arrive by car via Route 302 in Bretton Woods. The cog is six miles away. For further information, contact Mount Washington Cog Railway, 3168 Base Station Road, Mount Washington, NH 03575, tel. 603-278-3575, www.thecog. com. n Dan Schlossberg of Fair Lawn, NJ is travel editor of New Jersey Lifestyle and host of two weekly radio shows, Travel Itch Radio and Travel Tuesdays. He is also the founder of the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA).

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On Wheels

Attack of the VWs Three Volkswagens for Three Different Lifestyles

By Elaine Rose

2017 Volkswagen Touareg 24

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BABY BOOMERS CAN REMEMBER WHEN Volkswagen meant a Beetle. Or perhaps the Microbus, properly painted with flowers in psychedelic colors for traveling to music festivals. Groovy, man.

Well, that generation has grown up, and so has Volkswagen. The Beetle is back on the market for those who wish to recapture their youth. But for those Boomers who have matured — and their offspring who have more modern tastes — Volkswagen has plenty of offerings to suit different lifestyles.

If your children are grown or you haven’t yet started a family, the compact Jetta might be right for you. Introduced in 1979 and now in its sixth generation, the Jetta is Volkswagen’s best seller. It handles well on the road, is thrifty with fuel, and has more interior room than most compacts. And with a base price of just $17,895, it is also easy on the budget.

Volkswagen has condensed the Jetta to four trim lines, with three different engines and transmissions. Safety features such as a rearview camera are standard at all levels, as is a turbocharged engine.

• The S trim starts at $17,895, and comes with either manual or automatic transmission. It runs on a 1.4-liter, 150-horsepower TSI engine and rides on 16-inch steel wheels. The interior is basic, with two-tone cloth seats.

• Move up a notch to the SE, starting at $20,895 (add $1,100 for automatic transmission), and you get a sunroof, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, blind spot monitor, leatherette seats, and a few other technological goodies.

• The SEL line, starting at $24,995 adds a little more power with a 1.8-liter, 170-horsepower TSI engine, but comes only with automatic transmission. It is equipped with a power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and additional safety features.

• The top-of-the-line GLI starts at $27,895 for manual transmission or $28,995 for automatic. It has a 2.0-liter, 210-horsepower TSI engine, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, the Fender Premium Audio System, and a lot of the bells and whistles that many folks insist upon having these days.

Reviewers give the Jetta good marks for being economical, fun to drive, and having plenty of room for two large adults in the rear seat, but say it is lacking in the looks department. Most say the GLI trim is not worth the extra cost, and that drivers should be satisfied with the lower levels — if they don’t mind a vehicle that doesn’t attract much attention on the road and an interior that feels cheap.

2017 Volkswagen Touareg in Deep Red Metallic

2017 Volkswagen Touareg interior view 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack in Tornado Red

ON WHEELS

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack's turbocharged 1.8L TSI engine

Interior view of the Golf Alltrack

2017 Volkswagen Jetta in Pure White Interior view of the Volkswagen Jetta

But the engine carries enough power to get you where you’re going comfortably, all while sending you on fewer trips to the gas station. Mileage varies by engine type, but all levels get an Environmental Protection Agency rating of at least 24 mpg in the city and 33 mph on the highway.

“That punchy little turbo proves that an economy compact's base engine doesn't have to be coarse, noisy or unsatisfying,” Fred Meier wrote for cars.com. “Its 184 pounds-feet of torque comes on with gusto at a low 1,400 rpm, and the six-speed automatic seems welltuned to exploit its available power for a nimble feel.” The controls are laid out well and easy for the driver to use, Meier wrote.

The trunk holds 15.7 cubic feet of groceries, luggage, and other essentials, more than most compacts. If you have a lot of stuff to haul, the cargo hold can be increased by folding the rear seats.

Reviewers also noted that the 2017 Jetta is finally equipped with a USB port to connect passengers’ portable devices, something that was missing on earlier models. The five-inch touchscreen on the lower trim levels is on the small side, and the 6.3-inch screen on the higher levels isn’t much better. Parents will appreciate that the Jetta gets a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration.

“If you want a sporty, European-derived compact sedan at a non-European price, the 2017 VW Jetta delivers the contemporary design and handling dynamics for which German cars are known,” Matt Degen of Kelley Blue Book concluded.

If it’s a station wagon you’re looking for — with off-road capability — consider the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, a new introduction for the 2017 model year. The Alltrack is a reconfigured Golf SportWagen, which was Car and Driver’s top-ranked station wagon last year.

It comes in three trim lines: the Alltrack S starting at $25,850, the SE starting at $26,950, and the SEL starting at $32,890. The lower two levels come with manual transmission, or six-speed automatic transmission for an extra $1,100. The SEL comes only with automatic.

Whatever level you choose, the Alltrack is equipped with the 1.8-liter, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine shared with all models in Volkswagen’s Golf line. The engine has 170 horsepower and gets an estimated 22 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the open road. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 7.7 seconds.

The Alltrack improves on its predecessor by offering 4Motion permanent all-wheel drive.

Under normal driving conditions, the front wheels do most of the work. But when the car senses extra traction is needed, the rear wheels engage. The Alltrack is also six inches higher off the ground than the SportWagen, making for extra capabilities on rough terrain. For that purpose, Volkswagen added an off-road driving mode to its options.

By its specs alone, the Alltrack doesn’t look like much, a couple of reviewers reported.

But when they got behind the wheel — especially away from paved highways — they were pleasantly surprised.

“On a simple gravel road, the tires, stability control, and fifth-generation 4Motion allwheel-drive system demonstrated an impressive amount of grip,” Scott Evans wrote for Motor Trend. “Out on the trails, the Alltrack really put on a show. Scrambling over loose rocks and up steep, loose, and pockmarked hills, the Alltrack demonstrated far more capability than expected.”

On the road, where you are likely to do the vast majority of your driving, the Alltrack offers a smooth ride, and as quiet as cars that cost a lot more, Evans wrote.

“Despite the raised center of gravity, the Alltrack steers with precision, responds quickly to inputs, and hugs corners nearly as well as its comrades,” Jens Meiners wrote for Car and Driver.

Abigail Bassett of Auto Week was also impressed with her off-road test of the Alltrack.

She took it to Tahuya State Forest outside of Seattle, on a trail used mainly by equestrians, all-terrain vehicles, mountain bikers, and loggers.

“The terrain combined loose sand, buried rocks, gnarled tree stumps, steep inclines and declines, and a large-but-shallow water crossing,” Bassett wrote. “You wouldn’t think a wagon could chew up terrain like that with any amount of ease, but the Alltrack proved capable and fun to drive on the little loop — so much so we drove it twice.”

In South Jersey, you can go to the Pine Barrens to check out these claims for yourself.

The Alltrack is a good solution for people who want off-road capability, but don’t want to climb up into a typical SUV, a couple of reviewers said.

Of course, no car is perfect, and the Alltrack has a few drawbacks, the testers noted. The rear seats are a bit cramped for larger passengers. And the benches are on the hard side,

even in front, which can lead to some discomfort on a long trip.

Once again, you’ll be happy to know that NHTSA has given the Alltrack a five-star safety rating.

If a full-fledged SUV is on your shopping list, Volkswagen’s Touareg is an often overlooked option that might suit your needs. It has many luxurious features without the price tag of a top-name brand.

The Touareg has been modernized for the 2017 model year, and many high-tech items that were once optional are now standard. Motor Trend called it “a full suite of safety features.” It comes in three trim lines, starting with the Sport with Technology with an MSRP of $49,495, the mid-level Wolfsburg with a base price of $52,795, and the top-of-the-line Executive for $60,195. All Touaregs come with the same engine, so the difference in trim lines is in the amenities.

The engine is a 3.6-liter, six-cylinder FSI with eight-speed automatic transmission and 280 horsepower. Volkswagen’s 4Motion automatic fourwheel drive is standard. It is a bit on the thirsty side, getting 17 mpg in town and 23 mpg on the highway.

But if you’re hauling a boat to the shore, you’ll be pleased to know the Touareg can tow 7,716 pounds when properly equipped.

For your stuff — and we know you have plenty — the Touareg has 32 cubic feet of cargo space in the hold, which doubles by folding down the rear seats.

Reviewers praise the Touareg for it’s comfortable cabin, which borders on luxury. All the expected creature comforts are included, such as dual climate controls and eight-way seating adjustment.

Andrew Ganz of The Car Connection called the Touareg “one of the more thoughtfully engineered utility vehicles on the road, one that really does vie with BMW and Mercedes-Benz in terms of its premium feel inside and out.”

The Touareg also handles well, especially for its width, providing a relaxing ride, Ganz wrote.

The cabin configuration also provides front-seat passengers an expansive view of the road ahead and the scenery on the sidelines.

Car and Driver’s Drew Dorian suggested springing for the mid-level Wolfsburg, saying the sunroof, leather seats, and larger wheels make it worth the extra cash.

On the minus side, reviewers gave the Touareg demerits for an outdated infotainment system, which lags behind the competition. It has only two rows of seats, making it a deal-breaker for larger families or parents wishing to haul half of their kid’s soccer team to the game. But the rear seats are adjustable, reclining, and comfortable for adults to ride in.

So these are some of your choices for enjoying the rest of the summer in comfort and style. And the good news is, with the 2018 models soon to hit the showrooms, you may save a few bucks off the suggested retail prices. And even though you may be long past your days of tooling around the country to rock festivals, you can still feel pretty groovy while driving to your summer vacation spot. n njlifestyleonline.com

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Lifestyle Entertainment

John Tesh

Talking with Tesh When he was first diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, John Tesh wasn’t concerned whether the disease would kill him. He was more worried about the possible demise of his very popular podcast, or the syndicated radio show, “Intelligence For Your Life,” or the individual syndicated shows hosted by Tesh, his wife, actress Connie Sellecca, and Gib Gerard, Sellecca’s son from a previous marriage.

“When I first got the cancer diagnosis almost two years ago, I was afraid the (radio) stations were going to drop me,” Tesh, 64, explains.

“Eventually (Sellecca) said, ‘Why don’t you be honest about this and (tell them) how you’re using your faith along with the medical treatments to get healed. You could really speak to people. It’s this thing where you 28

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open up and people can be touched by it in some manner.’ That was a lesson to me that I needed to let people watch this process.”

So Tesh, who isn’t your typical entertainer, decided he’d work his schedule around the cancer and not let the illness dictate his every move.

Fortunately, he’s had the unwavering support of his wife.

“If you look at the woman who’s been by my side while I’ve been going through these (cancer) treatments, she’s dropped everything, and I mean everything,” Tesh says, and there’s no hiding the reverence in his voice. “And she quit her (acting) career to raise our daughter, who ended up becoming a dancer. Now (Sellecca) is taking care of three grandkids.

I don’t know anyone like her. It’s been a wonderful love affair, especially

Known for his decade-long stint on the small screen, this accomplished entertainer dishes on his career, love of music, and current battle.

By David J. Spatz with what’s going on now with me, or my family and this challenge.”

Despite his treatments — and the yucky feeling most cancer patients tell you follows things like chemotherapy and radiation — Tesh is still hard at work.

Although he’s perhaps past known for his 10-year stint as the coanchor of Entertainment Tonight, Tesh is a gifted and successful musician and composer. Some of his most popular music are tunes people take for granted but have no idea he wrote.

In music and sports, he’s perhaps best-known for writing “Roundball Rock.” If the name doesn’t ring a bell, the actual song will — it was the theme song for “The NBA on NBC” for 12 years beginning in 1990. The song has been repurposed several times since then, including the last two Summer Olympics.

Tesh is currently touring with a show that includes many of his music career highlights, including songs from his touchstone 1995 singin’in-the-rain concert during a downpour at Red Rocks amphitheater in Colorado. The tour stopped in Atlantic City recently for a show at the Golden Nugget.

“I’m in the middle of my second round of chemotherapy treatment now. They feel like they got (the cancer) with surgery, and now they’re sort of ‘washing’ my microscopic cells and stuff (with the chemo),” he says, speaking incredibly candidly about his illness.

But make no mistake. While his medical team may have the cancer on the run, getting through the cure isn’t easy. Tesh describes it as “a helluva journey” and he recounts how a typical week works when he’s both working and fighting cancer. “(I was) touring for six months, then on Monday I had chemo in Houston,” he adds. “And then I’m down for two days being very sick, as people who have been through that know. But it’s also a testimony of how to figure out what’s important in your life. I think I have license to tell those stories, and it’s fun to tell them with music.”

Tesh has also learned through personal experience that also no matter how lousy he feels after chemo, he’s met some cancer patients, especially children, in much worse shape. “I think I have more empathy now than I’ve ever had in my life,” he says, and for the first time during a long conversation, he lowers his voice just a little and sounds reflective. “(I’ve) met a lot of people with cancer, some as young as 6, who are 10 times worse than what I have,” he adds. “I have a head cold compared to some of these kids.”

Meanwhile, how Tesh even got to the point in his multi-faceted career where he is today is a pretty cool story all by itself.

If powerful prescription drugs like Ritalin or Adderall had been widely prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder decades ago, John Tesh probably would haven’t have had a career.

Growing up on Long Island, he was a self-proclaimed high school music geek. Naturally gifted, he was trained by instructors from New York’s fabled Juilliard School of Music.

He learned to love the trumpet and, for a time, hate the piano. To make sure he put in a full two hours of practice, his mom used the annoyingly incessant tick-tick-tick of an egg timer. When the timer went off, Tesh went outside to play.

But the piano led to more opportunities, including playing organ in a garage rock band called the Best of Both Worlds.

“Everyone was in a band back then,” Tesh says, pointing out that another kid from out on the island, Billy Joel, was in a band called the Hassles.

In college, Tesh focused on music and communications, where he learned how to report news for radio and television. When he wasn’t in class or a recording studio, Tesh was a standout player on North Carolina State University’s varsity lacrosse and soccer teams. So Tesh was well prepared for a number of potential vocations. He just didn’t know what he wanted to do.

“My dad used to say to me, ‘You need to pick something.’ And I said, ‘Okay, everything,’” Tesh recalls with a laugh — and then came the Ritalin and Adderall reference — during a recent early morning phone call from his Beverly Hills home.

Tesh really could do everything. His first TV gig was as a reporter and anchor in Nashville and other stations in the south. At 22, he became the youngest reporter at the CBS affiliate in New York.

A natural in front of the camera, and one who could report on any story, he began covering sports. While he sometimes didn’t know much about the contests he was broadcasting, he still shined during the Tour de France bike race and Olympic gymnastics.

Then, once the events ended, Tesh would spend the rest of the night in the television production trucks working with a synthesizer on music to accompany other events. After covering skiing, track and field and bicycle racing by day, he would compose themes to accompany the broadcasts by night on a synthesizer in a production truck.

He has written music for the Tour de France, the 1992 Olympics, Wimbledon, professional football and basketball games, and more.

His compositions have won six Emmy Awards and earned him several Grammy nominations. n

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LIFESTYLE | Summer 2017

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Lifestyle Art

Marie Natale preparing to frame “Bank Street Summer Cottage” in her colorful studio

Runaway Drops

By BETH WADE Photography by ERIC WEEKS

Storytelling through art is the creative mission of one local artist 30

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A typical nighttime OC Boardwalk scene ”Manco and Manco Neon Reflections”

"FOLLOW THE BEAD DOWN,” SHE SAYS. Marie Natale is standing in front of her wooden easel — she never sits to paint.

As Natale applies watercolor to the paper, a drop of water is carrying some paint at what seems like an alarming rate, but Natale simply brushes in an upward sweeping motion. There is no box of tissues in her work space. Nope, nothing to catch this runaway drop.

That seems like it could be stressful, but not for Natale. In fact, she embraces this carefree “bead” of water.

It’s a good way to let go, she says.

“More people should learn to let go these days. Don’t you think?” Natale asks.

Natale has been painting for more than nearly 40 years. Watercolor painting still enjoys a strong following, she says. And there’s no sign that the popularity will decrease. The appeal is often simple — the want of hobby; the need to express creativity. It’s non-toxic and odorless, which, in many cases, makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy art.

Natale is an artist because, well, she’s good at it. That’s what a nun told her in sixth grade. “I didn’t know I had any special ability until she held up my Thanksgiving card. I was so embarrassed,” she recalls. “At that age, I assumed everyone could draw and paint.”

Like the nun, Natale became a teacher. She earned a Masters Degree in Art Education and taught in local schools for years. In addition to instructing at her Egg Harbor Township home studio, she currently teaches at the Ocean City Art Center, as well as locations in Cape May, Gloucester County, along the coast and abroad.

There are more than a thousand watercolor paintings

by Natale in private and public collections. Locally, her work can be seen on the covers of Ocean City NJ Magazine/Guidebooks and Exit Zero magazines, in AtlanticCare buildings, Urgent Care, and in Casciano Coffee Bar and Sweetery, Hammonton, which displays and sells her paintings.

For Natale, there is one painting she identifies as her favorite. It’s an iconic American scene of a barn. The barn exists on a busy road near Woodstown, NJ, but it wasn’t so charming and there were no cows. That’s one of the reasons it appealed to her. She used a photo to start the painting, then her imagination to add details; like adding cows to break up the darkness found in an open barn door.

Among the advantages of getting to meet an artist is hearing their backstory. In the case of chatting with Natale, she also has a way of helping you “see” not just “look at” elements in her work. For example, she points out areas in the painting where unpainted, white paper peeks through. There is no white paint in watercolor, so the artist must learn to use the paper for light, a fence

Adding final touches on a marsh study ”Guarding Sunrise” captures lifeguards taking a moment to watch the sunrise before the day's at work.

Natale adds trees by painting upward, changing colors, then allowing them to drip down and blend on their own.

Sunrise reflected in the windows on the Music Pier in Ocean City, NJ

Award winning ”Poppies 2”painting

LIFEST YLE ART post, or perhaps ripples on water.

In another painting, the white paper is used to achieve what Natale identifies as a “bulls eye.” In this technique, she swirls the color — literally by manipulating the paper in her hands. By doing so, a circlular spot in the paper is left “open” to reveal light.

“People have a tendency to want to paint the whole paper,” she explains.

“But, in watercolor, you don’t.”

In traditional watercolor, painters use the least amount of strokes and avoid “over painting.” That’s why this art form that is often created quickly.

(She may work for 45 minutes on a smaller painting, but as many as 10 hours for a larger one.) Natale says some modern watercolor painters paint with so much detail that their work can be mistaken for a photograph, but she prefers simplicity. In fact, sometimes, in a shadow, for example, she paints an object that can be interpreted. She says her goal — and the advice she gives her students — is to capture the essence and “leave the obvious vague.”

A variety of brushes and brush strokes can be used to achieve different effects. At one point, she picks up a pastry brush. In another demonstration of technique, she rotated the brush over and over on its side while moving it across the paper. Paint can be applied with a “flick” or by tapping the handle of the brush as well.

Natale also shared examples of watercolor ink painting, which involves applying random colors and tape on paper, which is covered with wax paper and then spread with a tool called a brayer. The artist interprets the resulting effect and creates a painting around what he sees.

The challenge she embraces more willingly is creating night scenes, as those compositions are not about the traditional study of light. In her upcoming show, she’s included a night scene on the Ocean City Boardwalk in which she’s captured a movie marquee. Underneath, a child tugs on the arm of a parent while others are strolling, sitting on benches, or eating ice cream.

Natale points out places on the painting where she used a pasty white paint applied with her finger to convey the brightness of a lamp post.

Another surprising fact she shares about watercolor painting is that black is not used — not by her, anyway. It does not reflect light, she explains. She creates the darkest shades using color combinations only.

As in the Boardwalk scene, many paintings seem to tell a story. That’s not accidental, says Natale. It’s a skill to be able to focus on a specific moment in time and create details around that. As a storyteller of sorts, it’s unsurprising, then, that she prefers to put people in her paintings.

“I want it to feel like the person looking at my work just walked in and is a part of what’s happening,” explains Natale.

The painting that earned her the most accolades doesn’t include a single person, though. Her “Poppies” is a study of the red flowers. That’s among the paintings she says she’ll never sell. A print, yes, but not the original.

Natale, who has studied under world-renowned watercolor artists, says there’s always something new to learn. One of her favorite ways to paint is by demonstration, she says. So, for example, she might set up outside and chat with passersby who pauses to watch a while. She enjoys interacting and giving people a deeper appreciation for watercolor. She begins, as always, with, the primary colors, blue, yellow, and red. Out of a box that contains 33 colors, she can customize colors on paper by combining shades. She also adds water to achieve a specific consistency — tea, coffee, milk, heavy cream, or butter.

“But the most commonly asked question is about whether I sketch first,” she says. “I do,” she answers, “but not in detail.”

Natale enjoys the challenge of talking and painting at the same time. For the fortunate ones, that conversation includes fearlessly “following the bead,” which is about water being guided by gravity, spontaneity, and intuition.

That’s when she is offering a lesson — about both art and life.

For more information, visit marienatale.com. n

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Lifestyle Leisure

By Molly Golubcow

The

BEST POT In Town It’s a Pot Party! And, You’re Invited!

DO YOU LIKE TO PAINT? HAVE AN ARTISTIC FLAIR? Enjoy arranging flowers? Just enjoy flowers in general? If you answered “yes” to any of the above, you will enjoy the Best Flower Pot in Town contest. Whether you are a participant with paint on your clothes and soil under your nails or an observer just coming to enjoy a fun and creative community event, the Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance (ACAA) offers a bouquet of fun at the annual event.

About the contest For the last two years, the ACAA offers 25 contestants the opportunity to show off their stuff. The $25 entry fee includes one 12-inch terracotta pot, potting soil, and one ticket to the Garden Party Reception that was held this year at the Dr. Jonathan Pitney House

Pot by Bill Parker 34

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Pot by Gary Price

where contest winners were announced. Once receiving your initial supplies, you have about 4-6 weeks before the reception to design (and grow) your creation.

The idea for the contest was a seed germinated, if you will, by Bill Parker — ACAA member and owner of the Parker & Parker advertising agency. Parker explains how he planted his idea and got it sprouted, “April Elias, President of the Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance (ACAA) and the board gave it the thumbs up and Patty Town, co-chair, jumped in as well. Being a local artist and a marketer, it was relatively easy for me to paint a demo pot and create the marketing tools to get started. We worked with Home Depot (Absecon) and ACE Hardware (Galloway) to secure the pots and soil. Our in-house joke was we are having a ‘Pot Party’ and we even went as far as buying the domain

Bill Parker's pot for 2017

name thebestpotintown.com.”

The rules are simple, but the submissions range from modern lines and arrangements to detailed and extravagant offerings — inside and outside of the pot. Whether you are a Picasso or a Rembrandt, the rules are easy — paint, decorate and/or sculpt, then plant your flowers and hope they peak in full bloom on the day of the event.

Flowers range from Blue Hawaiians and impatience, to succulents to irises, geraniums, and marigolds. In addition to a variety of flowers, the entries present interesting pot themes like an ice cream cone or a crab pot. Endless possibilities for an artist. Parker notes, “The interesting challenge for an artist is the canvas is one continual loop without side walls or edges.”

The winners are selected at the reception. Prizes include up to $225 and the categories range from “The Best Flowerpot in Town” (first, second, third and Honorable Mention), People’s Choice Award, and even a Crackpot Award given out for a busted pot! Judges look for creativity, design, and presentation — basically fitting into the “Would I want this pot sitting on my porch?” criteria.

So you think you got potting talent?

According to the ACAA, contestants run the full gamut, hailing from the Noyes Museum of Art, local designers as well as some from Philadelphia and Delaware, board members, and even students — high school to law school. In addition to great fun, the contest offers a sense of community where local business and potting contestants team up — you may see a team with a green thumb member on the one hand and an artistic flair member on the other.

So, what gets noticed at a the Best Flowerpot in Town contest? In the past, creations included winners like Mouse in the House (by Vonnie Clark) — a clever creation using a Trompe L'oeil effect where the flower pot is painted to look like a woven basket. The bottom of the “basket” even had a hole chewed in it from a mouse that was pictured as well.

Parker details some other past winners that take terracotta and make it a masterpiece, “The Koi Fish flower pot had a silvery mercury shimmer with large Japanese Koi Fish swimming peacefully around it.

The surreal ripples in the water made this one of my favorites. And, Starry Night (by Michael Fitzgerald) looked like a Vincent Van Gogh

Pot by Karen Egan

Pot by Mark Parker

tribute.”

The 2016 first place winner, Linda Curnow, enjoyed participating in the event. Curnow, who chose a Spanish theme — bright and vivid colors — speaks highly about the contest, “Inspiration for my pot was based on my love for the Latin culture. I named my pot Freda (Kahlo) after the famous Mexican artist. The community-wide event encourages all artists with all levels to participate in such a fun event.”

Are you going to pot?

For over nine decades, Atlantic City has crowned a Miss America every September — only one contestant selected for poise, beauty, and talent.

The ACAA seems to be following in those contest footsteps by selecting from a bevy of artistic and beautiful pots each June. Ready to be a contestant? If you think you have “pot-ential,” contact the ACAA for information about the upcoming 3rd Annual “Best Flower Pot in Town” contest for 2018.

About the ACAA The Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance (ACAA) believes that through the arts, lives are enriched, economy is stimulated, and community is strengthened. Their mission — to promote an appreciation of the arts through education, advocacy, and exposure to a wide range of experiences — really ties the community together.

Formed in 2013, the ACAA was born when four members of Mayor John Armstrong’s Advisory Council expressed a strong interest in promoting the arts in Absecon. With the city’s support, the Alliance began to host a series of youth art classes during that first summer.

Since then, the ACAA has hosted many events, including a Spring Gardening Series (in conjunction with Rutgers Cooperative Extension), Art Talks Lecture Series, Winter Art Lecture Series (in cooperation with Richard Stockton University), Poetry, Memoir Writing, and Music, Art in the Park, featuring multiple local artists, vendors, food, and entertainment, and the Best Flower Pot contest, of course.

The Arts Alliance attempts to involve as many community and municipal organizations in their projects and keeps abreast of the art-related activities of other municipal entities — schools, athletic, recreational and non-profits — and collaborates when appropriate. n

Pot by Wes Richards njlifestyleonline.com

LIFESTYLE | Summer 2017

35

Lifelines

Letter from a Canine Lover DOG-gone It ... I'm One of Them!

By Michelle Dawn Mooney

You know those people who carry their dogs in fancy purses, or dress them up in frilly little outfits which often include some level of bling? Maybe you've even overheard one of them talking to a baby (or so you thought) until you turn to see them using their best cooing narrative on their four legged companion. Well, I never thought I'd say this, but I have a confession … that's me.

No, I don't carry my dog around in my purse ... not that there's anything wrong with that; he just weighs about 35 pounds. Granted, I'm known for carrying pretty big purses, but frankly I just don't have the arm strength. On the other hand, the outfits (sans bling) are right up my alley. From Easter Bunny and Santa costumes, to black tie or beach bum attire, I have an ever-growing assortment of some family favorites. The funny thing is, I never thought I'd be a part of a “dog” family.

Growing up with allergies, there was a short list of acceptable indoor pets I could have as a child, with fish coming in first and last place.

That all changed nearly five years ago when I married my husband and got a fabulous “five for the price of one” deal: handsome husband, three beautiful step kids, and an adorable boxer-beagle rescue named Boojee. I still struggle with the sniffles from time to time, but he's worth the daily allergy pill.

I'm actually amazed at just how much I grow to love this little guy more and more every day. If you know me well, or even just follow me on social media, you have no doubt seen the transition as well. Few days go by when I don't talk about my dog or at least snap a quick puppy pic. Little by little, my Facebook and Twitter feeds have been flooded by his cute little furry face, and following the advice of a few friends, it was only a matter of time before he was granted his very own Instagram ... BoojeeOnHoliday (shameless puppy plug).

For animal lovers out there, you get it. You know that despite the “accidents” on the rug and the raided pantries, you can't picture life without them. The truth of the matter is I was actually called away from writing this article to attend to a little surprise ... my beloved dog was going number one in the corner of the living room. Why? I don't know. Will he do it again? Probably. Would I trade a life 36

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without number one and two clean-ups throughout the house and ripped apart food boxes for a life without kisses, and snuggles and a little paw on my arm? Never.

As we move past the so-called dog days of summer, I want to remind those looking for a furry addition to their family about the many loving animals in need of rescue who will bring you more love and joy than you could ever imagine. The tail end of summer may just be the perfect time to get acquainted, before the hustle and bustle of both work and school comes together for many of us in September. Please consider the option to adopt before you shop. I can pretty much guarantee the staff at any of your local shelters would be more than happy to have you give them a call or pay them a visit if it means giving one of their animals a forever home.

If you're not looking for a pet of your own, but you would like to help support those special bonds between pets and their owners, I strongly encourage you to learn more about a growing national organization called Pets for Vets (www.petsforvets.com).This non-profit uses a variety of methods to pair rescue animals with veterans, many suffering with PTSD, as they struggle to adapt back into civilian life.

It's a life-saving connection where animals in need help provide companionship and comfort to our male and female military heroes coping with the physical and emotional scars of war.

Both volunteers and donations are needed to help the group continue its work to perfectly pair each veteran with the pet that best suits their specific needs.

In my attempt to finish this article, I was called away yet again to clean up another mishap from my loveable little pup, but as I look over at him sleeping peacefully I can't imagine my life without him.

If you're still not sold on the whole dog idea, or think you wouldn't know where to begin with taking care of one, I'll leave you with some food for thought from an unknown author; “Not every person knows how to love a dog, but every dog knows how to love a person.”

Trust me, it's worth finding out.

Sincerely, Boojee's mom n

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Lifestyle Opinion

By Harry Hurley Op-Ed Contributor

Justice Awaits

Update on the 2012 Linwood murder and the arrest of Dr. James Kauffman

IT MAY BE THE SUMMER OF LONG-AWAITED JUSTICE. The murder of April Kauffman (five years ago) and the current (potentially unrelated) criminal charges pending against her husband Dr. James Kauffman are playing out in real life and in real time like a Hollywood movie script.

For five long years, April Kauffman's family, friends, and the public at large, have been waiting for aggressive action to be taken by the Atlantic County Prosecutor. The problem was there had been a significant impediment standing in the way: the former Atlantic County Prosecutor, James McClain. McClain is now a New Jersey Superior Court Judge.

McClain's departure for the judicial bench created an opening and the opportunity to appoint a new Atlantic County Prosecutor. New Jersey Governor Chris Christie politically shocked many when he nominated Democrat Damon Tyner for the position. Tyner was serving as a Superior Court Judge at the time of his nomination. The New Jersey Senate confirmed Tyner for the position and he was sworn in on March 15, 2017.

Tyner came out of the box swinging. He requested the records regarding all unsolved murders in Atlantic County since the 1970s. One of those cold cases was the April Kauffman murder. Tyner has achieved more results regarding the April Kauffman murder in just five months versus McClain for the previous five years. Many, myself included, have been highly suspicious and critical of McClain for his inaction.

It all became even more disconcerting when the public finally learned that McClain had been a patient of Dr. Kauffman. It gets worse. Wellplaced law enforcement sources confirmed to me that McClain never revealed this obvious conflict of interest and he did not recuse himself from the April Kauffman murder case. Sources within the Atlantic County Prosecutors office previously confirmed to me that McClain was an impediment to his staff, who wanted to do more to solve the Kauffman murder. It is alleged they were prevented from doing so by McClain.

See what I mean? This reads like a movie script. It also supports the old adage that the truth is also stranger than fiction. This script would be considered preposterous, and reduced to the cutting room floor, yet, it's playing out for real in South Jersey.

It should be noted that I've never accused James Kauffman of killing his wife, or being involved in her murder in any way. However, in basic prosecution 101, the spouse always has to be eliminated by law enforcement first, then they can pursue other avenues and leads.

In the Kauffman murder, McClain never pursued an aggressive investigation of the spouse. Yet, in Tyner's first weeks on the job, he formally requested a DNA sample of James Kauffman. The results of this are still under court seal by the order of New Jersey Superior Court Judge Bernard DeLury.

Then, on June 13, 2017, Tyner led a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement raid of James Kauffman's medical office, vehicle, and multiple homes that he owns. During the raid, James Kauffman brandish a 9 mm Ruger handgun, which he pointed at his own chest, and created a 45-minute stand-off situation.

This has not officially been revealed to the public, however, well38

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placed sources have confirmed to me that law enforcement recovered $100,000 in cash and other items from Kauffman's office, and an additional weapon in his car, along with many additional weapons in his various properties. There are also two life insurance policies, totaling $600,000. April Kauffman's daughter Kimberly Pack has previously filed litigation to prevent James Kauffman from collecting the proceeds.

I asked Tyner if the various raids of Kauffman was related to the April Kauffman murder? He dynamically answered, “It both does and doesn't involve April Kauffman.”

James Kauffman was initially taken into the custody of the Psychiatric Intervention Program, and then placed under arrest. Kauffman has been incarcerated in the Gerard L. Gormley Justice Facility since the day of the June 13, 2017 raid.

Tyner also aggressively pursued the immediate suspension of Kauffman's medical license, which was granted. In order for Kauffman to have his license to practice medicine reinstated, he will have a high burden to overcome. He will have to favorably resolve the weapon and other criminal charges, which have not as yet been filed.

Judge DeLury has deemed Kauffman to be a potential threat to himself and others. Kauffman is planning to appeal the results of his detention hearing. Unless he prevails, he will remain in jail throughout the disposition of his criminal trial for various charges that will be filed in the not-too-distant future.

Some of the potential charges that James Kauffman is facing include: Unlawful possession of a weapon; possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and obstruction of administration of law. Additional charge(s) could also be filed regarding certain ammunition and other items not known to the public at this time.

Two of these charges are serious second degree crimes. During the raids, law enforcement took away a number of items belonging to Kauffman which have not been revealed to the public. If the “Graves Act” is applied, there is a presumption of five years in jail, with a mandatory three years served before being eligible to apply for parole or probation.

Law enforcement has actual video tape of James Kauffman brandishing the handgun during the raid. Audio of Kauffman was also captured, whereby he states his concern that he was going to be arrested during the raid.

The Atlantic County Prosecutors Office is continuing with its investigation and is pursuing all leads regarding suspected criminal activity by Kauffman. It's a multi-faceted criminal investigation.

The initial criminal prosecution of James Kauffman will have nothing to do with the murder of April Kauffman. Yet, Tyner remains confident they will solve her murder, saying to me, “I am very optimistic that we will be able to bring closure for April Kauffman's family.” n Harry Hurley is the president of Harry Hurley Consulting and Communications, LLC. He hosts the daily talk radio program “Hurley in the Morning” 6-10 AM weekdays on Townsquare Media, WPG Talk Radio 1450, where he also serves as the senior programming consultant, www.harryhurley.com.

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The Social Scene

7th Annual Cocktails by the Beach a Succes One Atlantic hosted the 7th Annual Cocktails by the Beach to benefit Gilda’s Club South Jersey on June 8th. The venue generously donated the space, food, and service so that 100% of the ticket price and sponsorships went directly to Gilda’s Club South Jersey’s free program of support, education and hope for men, women, teens and children impacted by cancer.

Guests spent an incredible evening with live music by Tom Pacitti, a fantastic silent auction, and “Digging for Diamonds” with Roberts Fine Jewelers. One Atlantic Events announced the signing of their 15-year lease and committed to sponsoring the event every year during that time. The event was co-chaired by Kristine Kurilko and James & Rebecca Leonard and raised nearly $40,000 for Gilda’s Club South Jersey.

Photos by Nicholas & Partners

From left to right, Chip Donovan, Jim and Amy Malamut and John Edgar

Mindy and Robert Rovinsky

Left to right, Kristine Kurilko, Karen Weiss and Christine Eden

Left to right, Maria D'Angelo, Joanne Romano, Maryann Damiano Patricia and Paul Herron, CEO Gilda's and Ginny D'Angelo Club South Jersey

Left to right, Kathleen McNulty, Kelly Willman MD, James Patricia Russell and Scott Brown Eakins MD and Micheline Eakins 40

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Melissa Bushnell (left) with Donna and John Howell

Left to right, Susan Cox, Donna Johnson, Carol and Eric Gaupp and Mila McDonough

The Social Scene

Women’s Forum Raises Over $75,000 for Atlantic City Charities The 24th Annual Women’s Forum, held on June 8th at the Golden Nugget in Atlantic City, raised more than $75,000 for Greater Atlantic City Charities; including Jewish Family Service (JFS), CASA of Atlantic & Cape May Counties, and The Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. This fundraising luncheon, attended by more than 300 women, featured guest speaker Jennifer Hyman, Founder and CEO of Rent the Runway and a fabulous silent auction. Rent the Runway allows women to rent high-fashion clothing and accessories for short periods of time, such as Zac Posen, Oscar de la Renta and Diane von Furstenberg.

Women’s Forum event co-chairs Mandanna Salartash (left) and Brett Matik (right)

Left to right, Michele Zelig, Carolyn Pepe, Barbara Jackson, Melissa Juliano, and Bridget Gaffney

Brett Matik, event co-chair (l.) and Ruth Harrison (r.) meet with Jennifer Hyman, Founder and CEO of Rent the Runway

Left to right, Andrea Steinberg, CEO of Jewish Family Service; Brett Matik, event co-chair; Diana Gurwicz and Angela Harrison

Mi-Place at the Shore Opens in Absecon On May 24, Absecon Mayor John Armstrong, Fernmoor Homes President Jeffrey Fernbach and Stan Koreyva, COO and Executive VP, Amboy Bank officially opened Mi-Place™ at the Shore, a pet-friendly community of luxury townhomes and apartments for lease in Absecon. The community brings new life to a property that was previously owned by another developer, and which stood largely vacant for years.

Mi-Place™ at the Shore is located at 7 Stoneybrook Drive, Absecon, NJ. For more information, visit www.mi-placeshore.com.

From left to right, Stan Koreyva, Chris Seher, John Armstrong and Jeffrey Fernback celebrate with a champagne toast.

Mayor John Armstrong cuts the ribbon. Left to right, Stan Koreyva, Chris Seher, John Armstrong and Jeffrey Fernback. njlifestyleonline.com

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The Social Scene

Trauma Center Celebrates 25 Years of Service The Trauma Center at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center marked its 25th year of serving the community June 21 with a luncheon reception.

The Trauma team has cared for more than 34,600 of the most critically injured patients in the region since the Center opened June 1, 1992.

“Our dedicated Trauma Center team has made a tremendous impact

on the well-being of our community,” said Lori Herndon, president and CEO, AtlantiCare. “They’ve done so by caring for thousands of patients who were critically injured; providing education and outreach in our community; and collaborating with community hospitals to enhance the level of care we all provide.”

Former patient and Atlantic City Police Officer Joshlee Former patient Kaylie Shone shows a scrapbook of her Former patient Keith Hann shares a moment of joy with Vadell thanks the ARMC Trauma Center Team. accident to Debbi Grassi, RN, and Krista Brugger, RN. Brynn Previti, physical therapist with AtlantiCare.

Clockwise from top, Keith Hann, siblings Joe and Kaylie Shone, James Eakins, M.D., F.A.C.S, medical director, Rachael Galego, Laura Vadell, Joshlee Vadell and Bruce Folbaum Trauma, ARMC, addresses guests.

L to R, Kathy McNulty, James Eakins, Keith Hann, Kaylie Shone, and Joe Shone

Brunch raises over $75,000 for Gilda’s Club South Jersey A Red Door Society Brunch at Martorano’s at Harrah’s in May raised over $75,000 for Gilda’s Club South Jersey. Attendees enjoyed a gourmet brunch and listened to speeches from cancer survivors, including Joanna Bull, the Founder of Gilda’s Club Worldwide. The Forza Insurance Group covered the cost of the entire event and started

the donations by giving $25,000. Others followed by pledging funds to join Gilda’s Red Door Society. All money raised will go directly towards funding Gilda’s Club support programs which are free for South Jersey’s men, women, teens and children who are impacted by cancer. The brunch was co-chaired by Maria and John D’Angelo of Forza Insurance.

From left to right, Gary Hill, Joanna Bull, Maria and John D’Angelo, From left to right, Toni Capille, Erin McAllister and Paul Herron, CEO Gilda’s Club and Mary Anne Drake 42

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Photos by Nicholas & Partners

Victor and Lauren Crenshaw

The Social Scene

CRA Hosts Annual Client BBQ On July 13, CRA Financial hosted a barbecue at the Atlantic City Aquarium, catered by Nobil Foods. Starting with a tour of the aquarium, a delicious barbecue and cocktails followed outside overlooking Clam Creek, with a performance by Strawberry Jam Band. Clients of all ages enjoyed the summer night of fun.

CRA Financial, LLC is a comprehensive wealth management firm

From left to right, Richard and Rita King with Matt Reynolds

whose primary objective is to assist clients in accumulating and preserving wealth. They are committed to providing value-added, wealthenhancing services in a cost-effective manner that remains consistent with their philosophy of putting their clients’ best interest first. These services encompass six comprehensive areas of financial planning: investment, tax, insurance, retirement, education, and estate planning.

Clients Enjoying the Barbecue at the Aquarium

From left to right, Diann Goos, Frank Thomas and Jim Goos

Left to right, Marc Lowenstein, Matt Reynolds and Debbie Davies

Photos by Eric Weeks

The Strawberry Jam Band

From left to right, Jennifer Colon, Kelli Crouch and Anna Sadykova

Brendan Connell and daughter Joelle

Catering by Nobil Chef Bill McGinnity

Left to right, Sofia, Paula, TomĂĄs, Tom, Jane and Bob Reynolds njlifestyleonline.com

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RESTAURANT REPORT

By Alyson Boxman Levine

The Legacy Continues THE PALM ATLANTIC CITY IS THE PLACE TO BE THIS SUMMER AS THEY WELCOME A NEW GM AND A NOT-TO-BE-MISSED DINNER THEATER SERIES. Prime Aged Double Cut New York Strip

Broiled Jumbo Nova Scotia Lobster

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THERE ARE CERTAIN CULINARY moments you remember for a lifetime; the first time you taste lobster, the first time you dine in a Hibachi restaurant, and the first moment you enter The Palm. The delicious aromas of a classic steakhouse overtake your senses, but what you remember most about that first visit — besides the top-notch food — is the impeccable service. You are treated like royalty from the moment the entrance doors swing open, and that warm, welcoming feeling remains with you for the remainder of the evening.

Located in The Quarter at the Tropicana, The Palm’s philosophy is simple: treat guests like family, serve great food, and always exceed expectations. Owned and operated by members of the Bozzi and Ganzi families since the company’s founding in 1926, The Palm is known for their signature dishes, including Prime Aged Steak and Whole Nova Scotia Lobsters. The Palm’s menu also includes renowned Italian fare, including Chicken Parmigiana, Veal Martini, and Baked Clams Casino, and an award-winning wine list.

Celebrating its 91st year, The Palm continues its legacy as a favorite gathering place and dining destination for families, friends, and business colleagues alike. The Palm’s five-star reviews are endless, and according to Zagat, “The Palm in AC’s Tropicana Hotel not only offers superb chops, but also excellent seafood and an over-the-top wine list; the mood is lively.”

One of the most unforgettable and entertaining aspects of The Palm are the countless caricatures adorning the walls. And the history behind these amusing pieces only adds to the character and charm of this upscale dining establishment. When founders Pio Bozzi and John Ganzi opened The Palm in 1926, they had no money to decorate. Luckily, their location on Manhattan’s Second Avenue was in

The Palm in Atlantic City

close proximity to the headquarters of King Features Syndicate and attracted a large clientele of cartoonists. In exchange for their meals, artists would often draw their own creations on the walls of restaurant.

Since then, the flagship Palm has become a living museum of cartoons and caricatures, featuring such famous faces as Popeye, Batman, Beetle Bailey, Hagar the Horrible, and characters from “The Family Circus.” Over the years, the tradition of decorating their locations with caricatures has continued as they have expanded across the country and internationally. Before a new restaurant opens, 200 to 300 local notables' likenesses are placed on the walls, and new caricatures of regulars and celebrities are added.

This summer, The Palm Atlantic City offers some unique entertainment options to pair with their delicious food. Their popular dinner theater series continues with two exciting offerings in August. On August 16th, Deadly Housewives will be presented.

All is no longer perfect on Hysteria Lane as the housewives — Summer, Chastity, and Janet — discover their neighbor has been murdered in her own basement. These housewives are in need of so much help, they’re practically desperate! They’re going to need more than the police to uncover this mystery — they’re going to need you. And on August 27th, Assassination Idol comes to The Palm. It’s the final night of “Big American Star” and the contestants are at each other’s throats, dangerously close to ripping out one another’s vocal chords, while the judges and host stir up drama to boost sagging ratings. By the time the contestants are ready to sing, the atmosphere has turned murderous, and the contestants may “knock ‘em dead” in more ways than one.

For $85 per person, guests are

PrimeTime Prime Bites® at the bar

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The founders of The Palm

Anthony Romano General Manager 46

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R E STAU R A N T R E P O R T offered a three-course meal along with the interactive performance. Dinner selections include Filet Mignon and Lobster Tail, and complimentary valet parking as well; an added bonus for customers.

While at the show, make sure you congratulate the new General Manager Anthony Romano. Palm Management Corporation recently announced Paul Sandler, veteran Palm executive and beloved head of The Palm Atlantic City, as General Manager for their newly-remodeled Philadelphia location. Sandler takes on this new role after spending 14 years at the helm of The Palm Atlantic City, where he became a treasured and friendly face for their many frequent customers.

Taking the reins from Sandler as General Manager at The Palm Atlantic City, current Assistant General Manager Anthony Romano stepped into his new role at the restaurant this summer. Romano has spent nearly a decade in The Palm family — starting with a coveted internship at The Palm West Side in New York City, before graduating into management roles within several different locations along the East Coast, including: The Palm East Hampton, The Palm Washington D.C., The Palm Philadelphia and, most recently, The Palm Atlantic City.

During that time, he has become very wellknown and respected in the local restaurant community, having been recognized and awarded the distinction of being one of the Top 40 Professionals Under 40 in Atlantic City in 2012.

“We always want to give new opportunities to current members of our Palm family,” said Jeff Phillips, Chief Operating Officer and original General Manager for The Palm Philadelphia. “For over 90 years, The Palm has distinguished itself among steakhouses by creating close-knit relations with our customers and our teams, and it all starts with our GM at each location. Both Paul and Anthony bring a tremendous amount of experience in customer service, operations, and quality oversight from their years working at The Palm Atlantic City, so we know our guests and our employees are in excellent hands.”

As you entertain friends and family this summer season, be sure The Palm Atlantic City is on your must-visit list. With their impeccable service and mouth-watering offerings, this Tropicana hotspot will not disappoint even the most discerning visitor. There is truly something for everyone at this classic steakhouse overflowing with time-honored traditions, innovative ideas, and culinary excellence. n

Lifestyle Cooking With Chef Will Savarese

The Summer Wind Savor every finger-licking moment of this spectacular season that time of year — dog days of summer, schools out for Ithet's summer, lazy days in the summertime, gone fishing — it all comes down to the “Summer Wind.” What's more summer than Farmer Markets, Festivals, Art Walks in the Park, baseball in the background, and BBQs; it's all of life's simpler things … that magical time of year we covet. It also feels like it's never going to get here fast enough, so now that it's here, make sure you spend it with friends, family, your spouse, and doggies (if you're like me).

This year, I've made it my mission to relish all that the “Summer Wind” has to offer; having many gatherings at my home already. The weekends are usually spent with family and friends together. And it's a time of year that shouldn't require much fussing around with food.

One of the biggest secrets to successful summer food prep is having a game plan. I usually keep a bunch of items on hand, and buy the products by using my hands, eyes, and nose where I can; making sure all the items are fresh and good. Produce is a big part of my summer menus. I like to buy tomatoes ahead of time at the Farmers Market since I'm not growing my own this year. Purchasing ahead of time and allowing the produce the right amount of time to really ripen is one of the biggest keys. Remember, successful and delicious cooking all comes down to planning.

The food you make is only as good as the food you buy, so buy great ingredients; including steaks, pork chops, and sausage. This fact is something I completely believe in for at home and for all the restaurants I’ve run. The difference will be seen on the grill. When done, it's not going to need a lot of sauces or condiments. I like to finish meat off the grill with some good EVOO, Fleur de sel, and maybe a little fresh herb. Simplicity sometimes is the best ingredient; let the product speak for itself.

So with this “Summer Wind” season upon us, get some people together, buy some great dry-aged steaks; NY Strips or Rib Eyes.

Make some simple salads, tomato & mozzarella, chilled French beans with crispy garlic and a crispy baguette. Open a nice bottle of red — Cabernet Sauvignon is my preference — and enjoy.

I can still hear my Dad singing Sinatra's Summer Wind on the back porch. It was only last year, which now seems like so long ago. So for this “Summers Wind”, don't forget to sing and, even better, don't forget to tell your loved ones you love them every chance you get.

Our time on this planet is very limited; you don't know what will happen tomorrow. Do not take anything for granted; the sunrises, the sunsets, or the people we are closest to. Savor every moment … you don't get a second chance. n

Tomato, Mozzarella, Red Onion & Roasted Red Peppers

I find using plum tomatoes (Roma) work best. Buy ahead of time and let them ripen on the counter. Never put a tomato in the refrigerator.

Slice tomatoes into circles. Slice thin, red onion. Cut mozzarella so it will fit on the tomatoes or buy the tiny ones; whatever you do, just buy good quality.

Another trick is that I season with s & p as I go. Put one layer of tomatoes down, season, s & p, EVOO, then add red onion and mozzarella on top and season again.

Place peppers in the middle. You can even season them ahead with EVOO, s & p, and a touch of garlic.

Add basil if you like, or olives; it all goes.

When I say s & p, I mean a Kosher salt. I prefer Diamond Crystal, it's lower in sodium. Pepper is always out of a pepper mill; fresh is the only way to go.

Enjoy the company, enjoy the wine, enjoy your lazy summer afternoons and follow Chef Will Savarese on Instagram at chefwsavarese. njlifestyleonline.com

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Rad Red Wines I

n 1970, I was working in London’s Carnaby Street still swinging from the glorious 1960s when being young was finally a badge of honor and not of condescension from the adult population, who still had mental scars from fighting an evil army of thugs terrorizing Europe. The younger generation changed the face of the world forever, and redefined and popularized art, fashion, music, entertainment, and life.

They brought the color back to the cheeks of a world still living a monochrome existence.

Our store was filled with dolly birds wearing very short mini skirts and the blokes were sporting wide, bell bottom trousers and penny collar shirts.

And in the lazy, hazy days of that summer, Ray Dorset wrote the lyrics to the song his group Mungo Jerry would be heard singing from every transistor radio, not only in the U.K., but around the world.

I remember it so well, as it remained at No. 1 on the U.K. charts for seven weeks during that summer of my youth.

This time of year I still hear the song occasionally played on the same network my podcast is heard — TuneIn Radio — and on Jersey Shore stations. The song, of course, was called; “In the Summertime” and I still catch myself singing the best lyrics of that song while walking around on a hot summer’s day. “Have a drink, have a drive, go out and see what you can find.” It’s a catchy lyric, but not a smart one and, surprisingly enough, it led to the song being used in a U.K. commercial for the campaign “Drinking And Driving Wrecks Lives.”

And so, once again, I have meandered into this issue’s wine column reminiscing; talking about music, but also with a reminder. Whether you are a Baby Boomer or a member of today’s thrill generation who enjoy their own rad styles and tastes, it’s summertime so please remember Mungo Jerry’s lyrics and also the campaign it inspired. When you are partying or hosting 48

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an outdoor soiree, remember Drinking Wrecks Lives. OK people. Lecture over.

Let’s get to my selection of summer wines, and, as always, they are in the order I tasted them. They are all rad reds dude, which you can pop into the fridge for five minutes, and one rosé. Why? Because I truly believe reds are overlooked in the summer and, although it annoys every single wine snob I still encounter, I know chilled red wines are as refreshing as whites this time of year.

Abruzzo, one of Italy’s less traveled wine areas, borders the regions of Marche, Lazio, Umbria, and the Adriatic Sea, and is one of the least-populated regions in Italy.

The location provides the region with the perfect flora and fauna. With the mountain airstreams of Gran Sasso d’Italia and the warm breeze of the Adriatic Sea, the region’s unique terroir and temperature range also create the ideal conditions for both wine growing and ripening. In addition, Abruzzo is a cradle of indigenous varieties, the most distinguished of which is the Montepulciano d’Abruzzo grape.

Caroso Riserva 2010 (approx. $21.99) is a red wine produced with hand-picked grapes from mature vines grown on hillside vineyards in the heart of the Montepulciano area of Abruzzo. Aging occurs over a 24 month period in a combination of Slavonian oak barrels and French oak barriques, with additional aging in the bottle for six months prior to release. The wine has a beautiful deep ruby color with complex aromas of dark fruit and warm spice accented by hints of sweet vanilla. The flavor is rich, full-bodied and velvety, with notable red fruit, plum and cinnamon.

Cultivate Winery Pinot Noir, from three counties in California (approx. $28). The three counties where the grapes for this wine are grown are unquestionably the finest cool and coastal regions in California: 49% Santa Barbara County; 47% Monterey

County and 4% Sonoma County. Santa Barbara’s Pinot brought bright color juice with the taste of fresh red fruits and a subtle, feminine character. The Monterey County brought a slightly darker fruit profile and a bigger wine. And finally, just a kiss of Pinot from the wilds of Sonoma County, pulls this wine together with richly-fruited juice with a touch of orange zest and intriguing notes of black tea. The combined result is a ruby color, a perfume of youthful and exuberant red fruits: ripe raspberries and strawberries with a touch of pomegranate and a whiff of candied orange peel. The flavor is full of sappy, perfectly-ripe red fruits, with a whisper of black tea.

Frescobaldi Nipozzano Vecchie Viti 2011 Chianti Rufina Riserva, Tuscany, Italy (approx. $28). This red wine, sourced from the oldest, and most deeply-rooted Sangiovese vines at the Castello di Nipozzano, displays superb complexity and harmony of all its components. It matures for 24 months in large oak casks, in true Tuscan tradition.

The very first harvests were fruity and fresh. Then, taking advantage of a sunny September, the winemakers were able to bring the Sangiovese at this estate to a level of maturity, both in pulp and skins, that is achieved only in the best vintages. The Sangiovese was blended with small amounts of Malvasia Nera, Colorino, and Canaiolo.

The wine has a ruby-red color, which is luminous and brilliant. The perfume opens with very ripe fruits: cherry, strawberry, and raspberry are prominent. The flavor is full of fresh fruit and it’s oh so very smooth.

Palivou Estate Terra Leone, Nemea, Greece (approx: $24). This wine is produced in a single vineyard from the Agiorgitiko grape; aged for 18 months in French oak barrels and then six months in the bottle.

The wine has a deep, dark and rich color, with intense fruity perfume of cherries, forest fruits, and raisins, yet it is smooth and absolutely delicious. I included this

Lifestyle Wine

In the summertime when the weather is hot, You can stretch right up and touch the sky.

When the weather's fine.

You got women, you got women on your mind.

Have a drink, have a drive, Go out and see what you can find.

Written by Ray Dorset © Universal Music Publishing Group

By Phillip Silverstone wine because Greek wines are so often overlooked. Don’t pass this one by!

Orison Wines 2016 Orison Rosé, Napa Valley USA/Alentejo, Portugal (approx. $16).

The Orison wine project, started in 2011 by Daniel and Filipa ‘Pipa’ Orrison, embodies two young winemakers' desire to bring the beauty and spirit of Portugal to the United States through wine. A love of wine and travel brought the team together in New Zealand and has since taken them around the world in pursuit of their passion. The husband and wife have made wines in five different countries at some of the world’s top estates. Their style is a mixture of new world precision and old world instinct as they look to produce wine of unique origin and value. The Orison brand produces just 2,000 cases each vintage. While modest in accomplishment, the team has emerged as a millennial force in the wine industry and the couple notes; “Around this time last year, we stumbled upon a perfect little farm in the heart of Alentejo, Portugal. On that farm was a small vineyard, planted with vines

and surrounded by trees. From that vineyard we made Rosé. In the creation of this offering, we are honored to have worked in close contact with legendary Portuguese winemaker Luis Duarte. Luis has been at the heart and soul of the Alentejo region for more than 30 years and his expertise has accelerated our quest to become one of the most respected producers in Portugal.”

Sourced from a lesser known grape in Portugal (100% Moreto), the fruit for this very limited-availability wine comes from a 40-year-old vineyard in the heart of the Alentejo. The perfume is spring flowers and fresh strawberries, the flavor is excitingly exuberant, fresh, fruity and charming. For availability and other information, visit www. orisonwines.com.

Thinking back to my early days in London and including Purple Heart in this edition’s column, I am reminded that this year, Her Majesty The Queen’s Birthday Honors List didn’t only include A-Listers from music and film, and members of the arts and politics. It also included the heroes who died trying to

prevent terrorism in London and Manchester (before the attack on Muslims outside a north London mosque). Just ordinary people doing extraordinary things. So, besides thinking twice about driving after you have been drinking this summer, I wish you safe travels, whether you are staying stateside or going abroad. Staying sober also means being alert, not only behind the wheel of your car, but as you walk across famous bridges or attend concerts. I wish you all a very happy and a very safe summer. And let’s bring some color back to our cheeks after a very grey and bleak winter and spring … In the summertime when the weather is hot.

Cheers! n “Time Out With Phillip Silverstone” is a weekly podcast heard exclusively on TuneIn radio anytime worldwide either on the free TuneIn app for all smart phones and tablets.

“Follow” the show for weekly updates. You can also LIKE Phillip on Facebook: www. facebook.com/Phillipsilverstone and follow him on Twitter: @wining.

Best of the Bunch Choice Purple Heart Red Wine 2014 Napa Valley, California (approx. $20).

This is the second year I’ve featured this wine, and I do so for two reasons. Firstly, it deserves a second mention, and secondly because Purple Heart Wines make a generous annual donation to the Purple Heart Foundation, an organization dedicated to serving the unmet needs of military men, women, and families.

For over 50 years, the Purple Heart Foundation has been supporting and honoring the sacrifice military veterans have made for our country. Last year alone, the foundation helped over 19,000 veterans secure over $300 million dollars in VA benefits with their professionally trained VA Service Officers.

The Purple Heart Foundation provides desperately-needed programs to assist veterans with new service dogs, educational scholarships, resources to help cope with Post Traumatic Stress, and necessary funding for research to heal those suffering with traumatic brain injuries. I have to confess I’m being somewhat indulgent because any organization that offers what the Purple Heart Foundation offers is near and dear to my heart and I love

them dearly for serving those who served us.

The 2014 Purple Heart is a “Bordeaux Blend”, according to the winery, so we can assume it is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The wine has aromas of mulberries, plums, and blackberries, with hints of black licorice. Dark ruby and opaque in appearance, this medium-bodied beauty is lushly textured with notes of red and black fruits and hints of cardamom. The wine has a long, velvety flavor and balanced tannins.

This past April 2017, John Moynier became the sole winemaker for Purple Heart Wines. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1968 to 1972, where he was a Squadron Training NCO. John says; “When crafting this wine, we made no sacrifices. It is an uncompromising wine made under the close stewardship of the Peter Mondavi Sr. Family, whose patriarch is a proud veteran of World War II. Join us as we lift a glass and pay tribute to our brave military heroes and thank them for their profound contributions.”

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dining gallery

Blue Water Grille

Ram’s Head Inn

9 W. White Horse Pike, Galloway, NJ 609-652-1700 ramsheadinn.com The Ram’s Head Inn continues the long-standing tradition of superior quality food and service that the Knowles family brought to Southern New Jersey in 1979. This started at the Manor in the 1950s, and also continues at the Highlawn Pavilion and Pleasantdale Chateau (all located in West Orange, NJ). Traditional food and beverage is served with a contemporary flair at various venues within this one-of-a-kind restaurant.

Executive chef Elio Gracia has provided outstanding culinary excellence for seventeen years, incorporating as many seasonal organic and locally-grown foods as possible. Walk-ins are always welcome.

Ventura's Offshore Cafe

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

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

60 N. Maine Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 609-343-7447 fantasearesorts.com Located on the 7th floor of FantaSea’s Flagship Resort, the Blue Water Grille is reinventing itself under Executive Chef A. Juliano Cannuscio. Amazing views abound as the well-trained servers offer American Mediterranean cuisine with Italian influences. Dine on their delicious selections as you enjoy the magnificent ambiance.

2112 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 609-441-1100 meltingpot.com At The Melting Pot, fondue truly becomes a memorable four-course dining experience.

Patrons can dip into something different — and discover all the ingredients for a unique dining experience, including a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive service, fine wines and signature fondue dinners.

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

Joseph's Restaurant at Renault Winery A Touch of Italy

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

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

Maplewood The Historic Smithville Inn

The Melting Pot

Crab Trap

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

Discover the Tradition of the Historic Smithville Inn.

470 White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 6126 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing, NJ 609-561-9621, 609-625-1181 joesmaplewood.com For almost 70 years, Joe Italiano’s Maplewood has been known for its consistently great food! They believe that freshness and loving preparation are keys to satisfied customers. They have high standards for their food. Consistency can and should be expected. Food is fresh, salads are made to order, and pasta is boiled right before sauce is poured over it. “Gravy” or red sauce is made fresh daily and is loved by the locals in the area. They only use the finest ingredients at the Original Maplewood. Two locations — Same Great Food. Your Choice.

RESTAURANT WEEK Barista’s Coffee House

199 New Road Ste. 10, Central Square, Linwood 609-904-2990 baristascoffeehouse.com Owners Mark and Debbie Becker have created the perfect “neighborhood” atmosphere coffee house. Brewing up more than just coffee, customers come back time and time again for Barista’s espresso, tea breakfast, Liege waffles, Brussels waffles, gourmet desserts, and Italian gelato. Once you walk through the doors, you instantly become part of the “Barista’s Family”. Open Monday thru Friday, 7 am - 5 pm; Saturday, 8 am - 5 pm and Sunday, 8 am - 2 pm.

HAPPY HOUR Sofia

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

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

Tomatoes

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

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

Angeloni’s II

NJLifestyLeONLiNe.cOm

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

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Seaview Dolce

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

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

LIFESTYLE | Summer 2017

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casino dining

TROPICANA (THE QUARTER)

Broadway Burger Bar

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

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

Cuba Libre

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

Olón

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

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RESORTS

PLAYGROUND AT CAESARS

Gallagher’s Steakhouse

Phillips Seafood

Capriccio

Souzai Sushi & Saki

Resorts Casino, Atlantic City, NJ 609-340-6555 gallaghersresorts.com Gallaghers is located on the 2nd floor of Resorts Casino. A classic steakhouse serving hearty salads, dry-aged meats, wonderful fish and shellfish. Their glass-enclosed meat locker is in the front of the restaurant for all to view; and all of the beef is dry-aged for 21 days at a constant 36 degrees to insure tenderness. Offering the finest selections of seafood as well. An ambiance of warm woods and deep reds. Friendly, efficient and gracious service. Open for dinner Sunday thru Thursday 5-9:30 pm, Friday 5-10 pm, Saturday 5-11 pm.

Resorts Casino, Atlantic City, NJ 609-344-6000 resortsac.com No passport needed for this Italian experience.

Capriccio’s all new menu features gourmet Italian cuisine in an exquisitely comfortable Mediterranean atmosphere, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Capriccio’s has beautiful murals on the walls featuring Old World Italy. The food is as spectacular as the view.

BALLY’S

Playground at Caesars, Atlantic City, NJ 609-348-2273 phillipsseafood.com Phillips Seafood brings guests a classical American seafood menu boasting an array of fresh seasonal fish and Phillips’ famous jumbo lump crab cakes. Renowned chef Robbin Haas has designed a menu that offers guests the freshest, finest seafood available, complete with a rolling oyster cart where regional varietals are shucked tableside and a double-decker live lobster tank stocked with 3-10 pound lobsters.

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

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

Guy Fieri’s Chophouse

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

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

Buddakan

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

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

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

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

Award-Winning Seafood

BORGATA

Wolfgang Puck American Grille Borgata Casino Atlantic City, NJ 609-317-1000 theborgata.com The man who revolutionized the culinary industry carries an undeniable cachet, synonymous with bold, innovative cooking and an unmistakable panache and passion that redefined dining in America. Offering contemporary American cuisine, the restaurant offers two distinctive dining areas ranging from casual and relaxed to elegant and upscale.

Old Homestead Steak House

Borgata Casino, Atlantic City, NJ 609-317-1000 theborgata.com Their domestically-raised, hand-massaged Kobe beef is not only the envy of the trade, it’s trademarked. But that isn’t the only reason the venerable Old Homestead has been a New York City landmark for 137 years. “It’s consistency on all fronts,” says Marc Sherry who, with brother Greg, opened their second location at Borgata.

The menu nearly mirrors New York’s — and for good reason.

Izakaya

Borgata Casino, Atlantic City, NJ 609-317-1000 theborgata.com A modern Japanese pub that defies comparison.

Extraordinary sushi, sake, and robatayaki served in a sensual, yet modern atmosphere. Izakaya’s tempting cocktails and sharable plates make it the premier spot for an after-hours nosh and drinks, or a delicious late-night meal.

PHILLIPSSEAFOOD.COM ATLANTIC CITY acebook.com/PhillipsSeafood

609.348.2273 @PhillipsSeafood

FINAL WEEKS 215.448.1200 | www.fi.edu

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A Final Word By Marjorie Preston

The Dawn Patrol “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.”

I

f you doubt the truth of this aphorism, consider a few facts about the man who wrote it, Benjamin Franklin.

Healthy?

Check. Franklin, who lived to be 84, was a lifelong ladies’ man who romanced women on several continents, even in his dotage.

Wealthy?

Check. The man who said, “A penny saved is a penny earned” was an industrious businessman and prudent investor who became one of the richest people of his time.

Wise?

But of course.

A voracious reader, scientist and inventor, Franklin found time for many pursuits — and seems to have excelled at all of them. Every schoolkid knows he was the first person to successfully harness electricity. He also established the nation’s first lending library, started the first fire department, and helped draft the Declaration of Independence. He spoke five languages. He thought up lots of pithy sayings.

Oh yes. Old Ben also helped to birth a nation. And you’d better believe he didn’t do it loafing in bed.

I admire Ben. In fact, I call him my BFF (best founding father).

So in search of similar health, wealth and wisdom, I have trained myself to rise early. I usually get up at 5 AM, sometimes earlier.

I’ve found I can accomplish a great deal in the hours before 5 and 8 o’clock. The rest of the world is still at slumber. There’s no avalanche of emails, no clamor of phone calls. There are no urgent tasks to be completed.

I assure you, if you have a big goal to reach — to play the harp, write a book, build a henhouse or finish the world’s biggest jigsaw puzzle — give yourself two to three hours a day, uninterrupted.

You’ll get it done.

It wasn’t easy to wrestle my inner night-owl into submission.

In order to rise at 5 AM, I have to turn in by 8 or 9 PM. Many people see this as a sign of encroaching old-ladydom. It’s true, I have to pass on late-night parties, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and other midnight-oil activities. But keeping farmer’s hours has its

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unique compensations.

For one thing, there’s the sunrise. Though it’s a phenomenon that happens every day, it’s still phenomenal — and most of us rarely see it. Living close to the ocean, I can attest to the splendor of the sun as it first glints at the edge of the horizon, then goes up, up, up in a Technicolor riot of reds, pinks, purples and ambers.

It’s like every picture postcard you ever saw, in living color.

Then come the early birds, who provide the accompaniment. Their stirring call-and-response is the highlight of my morning. My favorite is a mockingbird on my street. Every morning he perches in the same tree, on the same branch, and sings up a storm, trilling his little heart out. This dawn chorus might be pretty mundane if we could understand what the birds are saying (“Hey Charlie, this is a great spot for worms”), but it sounds like a symphony.

Then there is the peculiar, delectable, almost other-worldly quality of early-morning light. Photographers and moviemakers call it the “golden hour,” that special time just before sunrise when daylight is softer, warmer, richer, more dimensional and more vivid than at other times of the day. Somehow, the position of the sun as it rises or descends in the sky imbues the landscape with an ineffable glow.

According to the Society of Photographic Scientists and Engineers, the golden hour (called the “magic hour” by some) occurs anytime the sun is near the horizon (it also happens at dusk — a twice-a-day miracle of nature).

“Sunlight travels through a greater depth of atmosphere, so that more of the illumination comes from indirect light,” says an SPSE handbook. “More blue light is scattered, so if the sun is present, its light appears more reddish. In addition, the sun’s small angle with the horizon produces longer shadows.”

Whatever the reason, dawn is a glorious time to be alive — and awake.

So don’t dream on! Early mornings aren’t just for the birds.

They’re for you and me — the healthier, wealthier, wiser us. n

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