VOLUME L, ISSUE 2
Newsletter www.capemaymac.org
SPRING 2020
A new name and Cape May Music Festival’s 31st season new look for MAC LOOKING AHEAD:
As I write this, with baton of Salvatore Scarpa, turmoil and uncertainty still the group planned the swirling around us, it’s easy perfect program of rousing to long for silver linings and music for the Memorial Day more tranquil times. And Weekend. At this time, we music is certainly one way to hope to present the group soothe that unease, which is during our Holiday Preview why I want to share with you Weekend. our plans for the 2020 Cape We’re very excited May Music Festival Series. to present Backtrack on Hopefully, in a few short Monday, July 20. This is an months, we’ll be sitting in a award-winning a cappella lovely venue enjoying some group based in New York Local favorite, Paula Johns, of this artistry. City that explores the power returns to this year’s Cape This year, due to the of the human voice through May Music Festival. pandemic, our festival unique vocal arrangements, which normally spanned tight harmonies and worlda three-week period, will start later and class beatboxing. The group pushes the run until the holiday season. Atlantic Brass limits of a cappella, with impressive covers Band was to have taken the stage at Rotary (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) Bandstand on Sunday, May 24. Under the
“Vintage” opens soon at the Physick Estate CAPE MAY - Amid depressing travel restrictions, stay-at-home orders, limited trips to the grocery store and humdrum meals at home, there is something to look forward to: a new restaurant is coming to the Emlen Physick Estate. Plans are fully underway, and menus being finalized for “Vintage,” set to open its doors soon, and the anticipation is palpable. Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) has partnered with KARA Restaurant Group to oversee the entire restaurant operation beginning this year. KARA operates some of the most successful and diverse restaurants in the Cape May region -- George’s Place, Scola, Shamone, YB -- and now Vintage, featuring menu items that are unique, as co-owner Chef Nikolaos “Niko” Goutzouris describes them, and “wild.”
Vintage will open seven days a week from 11am-5pm and will offer a brunch menu, with some select options for dinner. “I want to appeal to a broader crowd,” said Niko. “To everyone – young and old.” In that vein, Niko said the menu will appeal to those who like to try something creative as well as those who enjoy the familiar. “You know you go to a lot of restaurants and you always see the same things. We want to make something that’s different, completely, but with one or two items that are familiar. Our menu is going to be something more unique, more wild.” While the menu is not yet final, Niko gave a taste of what’s to come. “You know we’re thinking of things like (CONTINUED ON PAGE 6)
In 1970, the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) was formed by a band of volunteer citizens with a mission to help preserve the history of the Cape May region. Initially, MAC’s founders had broad, lofty goals for the organization, which was reflected in their choice of a name. Over the course of our 50-year lifetime, the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (we expanded our name in 2009) has been the leader in cultural and heritage tourism in the Cape May region. Over this same lifetime, the organization has struggled with an identity crisis. MAC’s name is vague and a little misleading. Additionally, the longstanding branding strategy had been to focus on promoting the unique identity of each of our offerings, rather than promoting MAC as the brand behind each offering. As a result, many visitors and residents are unaware of all that MAC has to offer. In preparing for the 50th anniversary year, MAC’s leaders engaged in strategic planning initiatives to ensure MAC’s stability and success for the next 50 years. One of the major goals identified was the need for MAC to work on establishing a strong, clear brand to launch itself into the future. Over the course of 2018-19, MAC’s board and staff, working with the Princeton Strategic Communications Group, poured time and energy into a (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)
In This Issue
Coming Attractions ..........Pages 3 & 4 Donor Profile..............................Page 5 Education Wrap-up................Page 11 Membership News ..................Page 6 Message from the Director...Page 12 Recent Happenings.......... Pages 2, 11 Thank You Department.......Pages 7-9
RECENT HAPPENINGS Winter Wrap-Up
After 20 years of co-sponsored exhibits, our friends at the Center for Community Arts decided it was time for a much-needed sabbatical. As a result, we were unable to celebrate Martin Luther King Weekend with our traditional exhibit opening. Instead this year, Lunch & Learn launched MAC’s 2020 programming season. Museum Education Director Melissa Palmer planned a varied series, adding several new partners to our roster of presenters. In a partnership with the Friends of Cape May Music Festival, Brenda Leonard joined us for a program featuring Bach’s Cello Suites. Shortly thereafter, Ray Rebmann, curator of Dennisville’s Old School House Museum, related the fascinating history of Prohibition in Cape May County. Next up was MAC Office Assistant Janet Yunghans, who explored the legend of the Jersey Devil. While our Lunch & Learn programs have attracted a faithful audience, these programs were standing room only. Museum Educator Dory Coe introduced a new character, the History Lady, who entertained us with tales of female pirates. Dory also gave us insights into the inimitable Molly Brown, famous Titanic survivor. Other presenters included Rich Chiemingo and Melissa Palmer. Our season ended a little bit prematurely, another victim of the Coronavirus. We hope to be up and running again with Summer programs. Stay tuned. The Friends of Museum Education offered several Winter lectures to com-
Cape May MAC’s Museum Education Director Melissa Palmer presented “Tales from the Dark Side of Victorian Life” Wednesday, Feb. 26 at Cape May United Methodist Church as part of MAC’s wildly popular Winter Lunch & Learn series.
plement Lunch & Learns. Rich Chiemingo and Helen Mashuda offered a program on the U-Boats that lurked off Cape May’s coastline during World War II. MAC’s Registrar Ben Ridings shared his research into the presidents who frequented Cape May. The series wrapped up with Tom Carroll’s overview of the importance of Victorian architecture. Both the Lunch & Learn programs and the Friend’s lecture
NEWSLETTER Published by Cape May MAC, a not-for-profit corporation P.O. Box 340, Cape May, NJ 08204 • Phone: 609-884-5404 New Jersey Relay Center for TTY Customers: 800-852-7899 Web Site: www.capemaymac.org • E-Mail: info@capemaymac.org Editor: Jody Alessandrine • Assistant Editor: Jean Barraclough Contributors: Sandra Adams, Susan Krysiak, Anna Marie Leeper, Eliza Lotozo, Melissa Palmer and Mary E. Stewart
OUR MISSION The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. ---- v ---OUR VISION Preserving Cape May’s rich heritage and assuring its vitality through superior cultural programs and events.
series have developed a reputation for the delicious baked goods baked and served up by our generous volunteers. We are grateful to the Cape May Methodist Church for the use of the very comfortable church hall for these programs. We did stretch our season again this year by offering Historic District Trolley Tours regularly throughout January, February and March. These tours are under-written by four of MAC’s good business partnersCarroll Villa/Mad Batter, Congress Hall, The Grand Hotel and Queen Victoria B & B. There was quite a flurry of activity during Presidents Weekend. As always, the Cape May Lighthouse reopened for the season. The Lighthouse is always a popular destination, attracting more than 400 climbers during a February weekend. Director of Visitor Services Janice Corkery recruited a wonderful array of vendors for our annual Crafts and Collectibles in Winter. The Chocolate Feast at the Washington Inn was a hit, with 60 chocoholics in attendance. We partnered with the Cotton Company, Lace Silhouettes and Aleathea’s for Brunch & Bingo at the Beach and took a small but avid group of oenophiles on our Cape May Wine Trail, visiting Natali Vineyard and Willow Creek Winery. It was truly a (CONTINUED ON PAGE 11)
Page 2 • Spring 2020
Cape May MAC
www.capemaymac.org
Coming
DR. PHYSICK’S BIRTHDAY PARTY & CROQUET CHALLENGE
ATTRACTIONS 609-884-5404 • www.capemaymac.org • 800-275-4278
We are sincerely hoping these wonderful events we have planned will not be disrupted, but with our shared ongoing uncertainty related to the Coronavirus, we suggest that you please check ahead for updates. Visit www.capemaymac.org or call 609-884-5404
REV Theatre presents “Macbeth”
Art by Noah Scalin
Tuesday, July 7 through Sunday, July 12: 7pm: “Something wicked this way comes” indeed to the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy of the “(dead) butcher and his fiend-like Queen” is re-invented and re-imagined. REV’s production of Macbeth is inspired by Shakespeare’s “Original Practices” (an all-male ensemble) and created through a 21st century prism. Bring a blanket or folding chair for this outdoor production. Presented by REV Theatre in association with Cape May MAC. Adults $25, Seniors $20 Students $15 Children 12 & under free.
REV Theatre presents “Sh-boom! The Nifty Fifties” Tuesday, Aug. 4-Thursday, Aug. 13: 7pm: Be transported back to the 1950s at the Emlen Physick Estate like never before as you listen to all your favorite musical hits from the ‘50s, including “Lipstick On Your Collar,” “Hound Dog,” “Where The Boys Are,” “Venus,” “Volare” and so many more! Performed by a pompadoured crooner and heavenly harmonies from a trio of crinolined cuties. Adults $25, Seniors $20 Students $15 Children 12 & under free. Dinner available for purchase separately. Carriage House Tent, Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., Cape May, NJ. Presented by REV Theatre in association with Cape May MAC.
Cape May Hops Festival
Saturday, June 20: 10am-6pm (tentative; check website to confirm):: This all-day outdoor family festival on the grounds of the Physick Estate features blues, brews and BBQ! Enjoy local breweries, live music on the outdoor stage, and food vendors serving up some tasty BBQ favorites, plus a crafts and collectibles show and kids activities. Admission to the grounds is free. Sponsored by
9th Annual Craft Beer, Music & Crab Festival
Saturday, Aug. 1, 10am-6pm: Come to the grounds of the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., and experience what CBS NY named a NJ Top Five Summer Festival! This family-friendly event features local craft beers to wash down favorite summer picnic foods such as steamed crabs, crab cakes, steamed shrimp, pulled pork, and more. Enjoy crafts and food vendors, and more for all ages, with live music all day on the outdoor stage. A Victorian-style circus features jugglers and acrobats! Free admission. Bring home a commemorative pint glass or T-shirt. Proceeds benefit MAC’s educational outreach programs. Sponsored by with support from www.capemaymac.org
Friday, June 5: 11am-2pm (tentative; check website to confirm): Join the Friends of the Physick Estate and celebrate the 165th birthday of Dr. Emlen Physick, Cape May’s illustrious Victorian citizen, on the grounds of the 1879 Physick Estate. Join him for cake and a croquet challenge. Free.
COMMUNITY DAY
Sunday, June 14 (tentative; check website to confirm): Cape May County residents enjoy free admission to climb the Cape May Lighthouse and the World War II Lookout Tower, visit the Emlen Physick Estate, or take a Historic District Trolley Tour or Combination Trolley/Physick Estate Tour. Show proof of county residency, such as driver’s license, voter registration card, passport or utility bill. Children under 18 need only be accompanied by an eligible adult. Community Day is sponsored by
CLUELESS AT THE PHYSICK ESTATE: “HOOK, LINE & SINKER”
Tuesdays & Thursdays, June 16-30: 7:30pm (tentative; check website to confirm), Tuesdays & Thursdays, July 2-July 23: 7:30pm & 8:45pm (tentative; check website to confirm): Clueless at the Physick Estate returns this summer with an engaging new mystery based on the popular board game. In this season’s “whodunit” mystery, tourgoers travel through the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., and a mystery dramatically unfolds around them. Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Elliot cordially invite you to their humble home for what is sure to be the social event of the decade. Everyone who is anyone will be there – but suspicions will rise when the host is late for his own party. $25.
FREE ADMISSION ON FATHER’S DAY
Sunday, June 21: Dads are admitted free at two of Cape May’s historic sites, the Cape May Lighthouse and the World War II Lookout Tower, on Father’s Day, June 21. Thanks dad! Visit capemaymac.org for schedules.
ROOTS OF CAPE ISLAND TROLLEY TOUR
New in 2020! Mondays & Wednesdays, June 29-July 22: 3pm (tentative; check website to confirm): Learn about the roots of the West Cape May area, both literal and cultural on this new tour. Hear about those who farmed the mighty lima bean and the Native American tribes who inhabited this land. Hear about the area’s history, including the whaling industry, and its
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Cape May MAC
Spring 2020 • Page 3
Coming
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ATTRACTIONS 609-884-5404 • www.capemaymac.org • 800-275-4278
Physick Estate Guided Tours “This Old House: Preservation of the Physick Estate” New Tour Theme! Begins after Friday, April 24: Each year, our tour of the Physick House Museum highlights a particular aspect of Victorian life and culture. This year marks MAC’s 50th Anniversary, and our tour focuses on the Physick House itself. It is fitting, since this is where MAC began, in its efforts to save the house from the wrecking ball. Once our tours begin again, you will learn of the mansion’s years as a grand residence for the Physick family, to its tragic decline and near demolition and, finally, to its rise as a fully-restored historic landmark. Come join us to learn the compelling story of its life. Adults $15; Children (ages 3-12) $8.
DINNER & FIREWORKS
Friday, July 3 & Saturday, July 4: 6:15pm (tentative; check website to confirm): Here’s an exclusive chance to see the area’s Independence Day fireworks from the ideal vantage point: atop the Cape May Lighthouse. Travel by trolley from the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. to the Red Store in Cape May Point for a delicious dinner prepared by Chef Lucas Manteca. After dinner, hop back on board for a short ride to Cape May Lighthouse, and climb to the top to watch the fireworks from the Watch Gallery. Reservations necessary. $110.
CHRISTMAS IN JULY AT THE CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE
Spring Celebration Garden Tour Saturday, June 13 (rain date Sunday, June 14): 1pm-4pm: (Tentative; check website) Here is your invitation to step past the frontage and explore the private plants and blooms of some of the Cape May area’s most dedicated gardeners. See their private landscape designs and take home ideas for your own gardens. Smell and see what’s blooming and flourishing in several different seashore locations dominated by sunlight, ocean breezes, sand and salt, but each uniquely situated. $20.
Breakfast with the Pirates
Tuesdays, July 7-Aug 18: 9:30am: It’s a breakfast fit for a matey! Children hear a story over a yummy breakfast and then create their own pirate hook to go on a pirate-y treasure hunt. Wait … what is all that ruckus? It’s a band of pirates! Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. $20 per person, adults and children.
Fairy Tale Breakfasts
Saturday, July 25: 10am-2pm (tentative; check website to confirm): Santa visits the lighthouse in board shorts! Bring the children to visit with Santa and get an early start on their lists. Enjoy kid-friendly activities, entertainment and crafts vendors at the base of the Cape May Lighthouse, Cape May Point State Park, Lower Township. Free admission to the grounds.
MURDER MYSTERY DINNERS: “ALL BETS ARE OFF”
Fridays, Aug. 7 & 28 and Saturdays, Aug. 8 & 29: 7pm: The scene is set by author Jackie Fazio at Aleathea’s Restaurant, the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. After a long weekend in Atlantic City a group of close friends return to their small-town home, eager to show off their big winnings. But one of them has a secret to hide. Loyalty and friendship will be pushed to the limits as they realize they don’t know each other as well as they thought, and maybe they don’t want to. Adults $60; children (ages 3-12) $30.
BACH’S LUNCHES
Thursdays, July 2-Aug. 20: 9:30am: Children enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet with kid-friendly choices, hear classic fairy tales and play dress-up with fairy wings at Vintage on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. $20 per person, adults and children. Face painting included!
New for 2020! A Virtual Celebration:
Virtual Armed Forces Day at the World War II Lookout Tower
Online, beginning Saturday, May 16: 11am: Join us virtually from home at capemaymac.org on the World War II Tower page to honor all veterans on Armed Forces Day. The Friends of the World War II Lookout Tower will host an online visit to the World War II Lookout Tower (Fire Control Tower No. 23) on Sunset Boulevard, in honor of Armed Forces Day, and that video footage will be available for viewing at 11am. Page 4 • Spring 2020
farms and shops, with stories of the vibrant African American community who live and work here. Tour begins and ends at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth and travels through West Cape May. $25.
Cape May MAC
Wednesdays, Sept 9, 23 & 30: 12:30pm(New dates!): Enjoy a delicious luncheon followed by a mini concert from members of the Bay Atlantic Symphony, at Vintage, under the Carriage House tent, on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Reservations required. $35.
CHAMPAGNE JAZZ BRUNCH AT ALEATHEA’S
Sunday, Nov 29: 10am-12noon (New date!): Linger over a Sunday morning champagne brunch buffet at Aleathea’s Restaurant, 7 Ocean St., with jazz selections from The Great American Songbook performed by Mary Lou Newnam, saxophone, flute and clarinet, and Sonny Troy, guitar. $35. Tickets are sold through the Inn of Cape May, at 609-884-5555. www.capemaymac.org
MAC DONOR PROFILE: CAPE MAY - Communications. History. Art. Myles and Leslie Martel bring a wealth of counsel, experience and financial support -- the products of tremendous success in their respective fields – as well as passion, to organizations like Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture). “I’m looking forward to working with Jody (Alessandrine, Cape May MAC’s new Director),” Myles said. “He already strikes me as a person who is bringing invigorating leadership to the organization. I feel his talent and his energy are going to be a phenomenal combination for MAC’s future.” Myles Martel, Ph.D., is president and CEO of Martel & Associates, one of the world’s premier leadership communication advisors. After serving as a full professor and debate coach within the Pennsylvania State University System, and as a professional mediator and arbitrator, he came to national prominence in 1980 as Ronald Reagan’s personal debate advisor. He has advised governors, senators, ambassadors and presidential cabinet members, and his practice now focuses on advising leaders of major corporations and professional organizations. Myles has served as a Trustee on Cape May MAC’s Board and, in 2012, founded one of the organization’s most prestigious annual events - Cape May MAC’s Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series, now in its ninth year. Myles and Leslie also generously support the organization’s annual Cape May Music Festival, along with providing vital support to the Cape May Legacy Fund and the 2020 Society. They’ve been married almost 20 years and together have helped drive Cape May’s culture scene. Leslie is President of Cape May Stage and the theater is named for her late father, Broadway actor, Robert Shackleton. She is an abstract artist who works in acrylics, selling her paintings to a variety of distinguished clients, and teaching in the region of the couple’s Florida www.capemaymac.org
Myles & Leslie Martel
Myles & Leslie Martel
home. Trained and educated as an interior designer, she founded and eventually sold a company that for nearly 20 years designed and produced hand-painted sisal rugs for the interior design industry, shipping beautiful handmade rugs all over the world. “It was an amazing business,” she said. “I was able to go to trade shows all over the country and in Europe. It was very, very exciting. I loved being able to make a living in the art world, which is rare.” For the last 15 years they’ve divided their time between Florida and Cape May, living full time in Cape May during the summer. Myles first saw Cape May in 1968 at night, in winter. It wasn’t until 1991 when he took the ferry from Rehoboth Beach, Del. that he got his first look at the town during the day. “I absolutely loved it,” he said. He started looking for property weeks later and bought a property on Madison Avenue. The couple still owns the home which now serves as their guest house; they live in a home they later purchased on Cape May MAC
Columbia Avenue. Myles had a passion for history from a young age. He was born in a historic town in Maine about the same size as Cape May, situated near the state capital, with three prominent liberal arts colleges nearby: Bates College, Bowdoin College and Colby College. “The educational system in this small community consisted of very educated, dedicated people,” he said. The town produced two Pulitzer Prize winners, is the site of one of the first paper mills in America and is within only a few miles of the state capital, Augusta. With family in Boston, he often visited the Freedom Trail as a youngster, sometimes on his own. Now some of that passion is poured into the annual Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series in which Myles brought to bear his substantial experience developing similar series. It began with his own lecture in 2012 on Ronald Reagan. “It’s a very respected and increasingly successful series,” he said. “We’re extremely excited about this year’s program: Harry Truman’s grandson portraying his granddad in ‘Give ’Em Hell, Harry!’ It’s going to be a very entertaining and informative as well as humorous production.” Leslie says that Cape May MAC helps galvanize culture in this shore community. “I just love the fact that MAC has things for visitors who come into town to do. Once we had our cute little house going and people started coming to visit, we were flooded with company in the summer. … So we’d say, well, there’s this wonderful trolley tour and our favorite is this one or that one, and then we’ll show you the lighthouse and the park, and then we’ll take you to the Physick Estate and then we’ll have lunch at the estate. You can’t always go out on a boat. You can’t always just walk around. Myles and I like to be busy and so MAC gives us an opportunity to share the town with our guests.” -- SK
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MEMBERSHIP NEWS Welcome New Members Platinum Business: Ocean Club Hotel
of Cape May, NJ (Violet Lumani); Rhythm of the Sea Bed & Breakfast of Cape May, NJ (Amy Kao); Sea Salt Restaurant of Cape May, NJ (Violet Lumani).
Family: Duane & Susan Barrick of Harrisburg, PA; Abigail & Philip Elgawli of Pittsgrove, NJ.
Grandparents: Walter & Diana Chattin
of Villas, NJ; Charles Kane of Villas, NJ; Kelly Lin-Kremer & Eyan Yeung of Lawrenceville, NJ; Meryl Simon Nelson of Cape May, NJ; Marcia Parkinson of Villas, NJ; Beverly Pattillo of Cape May, NJ; Sandra Prushansky of Cape May, NJ; Terrrie Rosania of Wildwood Crest, NJ; Lucille Ruddy of Cape May, NJ; Stephanie Ware of North Cape May, NJ.
Volunteer-Individual: Julie Forst of Cape May, NJ; Carol McDevitt of Cape May, NJ; Paulette Platukis of Cape May, NJ; Diane Shillingford of Cape May Court House, NJ. FRIENDS OF THE PHYSICK ESTATE Joint: Allyson & Robert Parlock of Laurel, MD.
Sponsor: Kathy Felger of Cape May, NJ.
of Villas, NJ.
Joint: Ingrid & Kurt Bergen of Vineland, NJ; Albert & Deborah Beuttler of Ocean View, NJ; Sheryl & Gary Coleman of Cape May Court House, NJ; Carol Emmens & Paul Eidsvik of Cape May, NJ; Sally Ann & Howard Garrison of Cape May Court House, NJ; Barbara & Jeffrey Gregg of Roselle Park, NJ; Theresa & Stephen Grunwald of Villas, NJ; Patti & Michael Hartline of Warminster, PA; Arlene Hauptman-Lehman & Herbert Lehman of Cape May, NJ; Mary Heaton of Wildwood, NJ; Robert & Victoria Heimall of Villas, NJ; David Jones & Renee Bystrom-Jones of Ocean View, NJ; Anne Kniatt & Michael Isaacs of Villas, NJ; Marisa & Bryan Latham of Clark, NJ; Thomas & Emma Lynskey of Holland, PA; Dennis Maguire & Lee Cathrall of Cape May, NJ; Diana & Arthur Miller of Cape May, NJ; David & Louisa Pummill of East Peoria, IL; Ann & Jim Quinn of Cape May, NJ; Kathleen & Richard Sahns of Cape May, NJ; Sharon Roeckers & Jim Davis of Voorhees, NJ; Janice & Kurt Seer of Cape May, NJ; Jamie & Dan Ticchio of Green Brook, NJ. Individual: Corylin Armour of Cape May, NJ; Fran Ascoli of Cold Spring, NJ; Stacy Greene
Congratulations to:
MAC Registrar Ben Ridings and his wife Rebecca on the birth of their daughter Abigail.
Condolences to:
Condolences to Barney Dougherty and Chris Bezaire on the death of Lisa Muller, Barney’s daughter and Chris’ mother; MAC VSA Ron Frech, Jr. on the death of his father, Ron Sr., long-time MAC trolley driver; To Jim Moffatt, on the death of his wife Betty Moffatt; Family and friends of Dick Payne, retired Sturdy Bank MAC account representative. Page 6 • Spring 2020
Cape May MAC presented the Cape May Community Food Closet with a shopping cart full of donated groceries Dec. 20 at the First Presbyterian Church of Cape May, 500 Hughes St. Shown here, from left, Executive Director of the Cape May Community Food Closet Tina Johnson and Cape May MAC Chief Outreach Officer Eliza Lotozo. The groceries were collected at the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 23 at the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate.
Vintage (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) cheesecake waffles. Blackberry, brie, bacon grilled cheeses. Angus burgers with thick spread goat cheese and arugula.” For those who enjoy tea, Vintage will bring a modern take to that classic beverage. “We are trying to stray away from the tearoom idea - not that it’s bad - we’re just trying to make something new that brings in more of a crowd,” he said. “We’re trying to bring a fresh new, hip way of doing it.” That could mean incorporating infused teas into the menu. “You chop up some fresh apples or berries and then you mix it in with a select tea then all those fruits and flavors get incorporated together and blend with the
tea. You can eat the fruit afterwards.” The Carriage House is a licensed retail outlet for Cape May Winery wines and they can be enjoyed with brunch or dinner. Customers can also bring their own. Some light, sophisticated fare like quality cheeses, a bread board or charcuterie will also be among the menu selections. Prior to recent events, the restaurant was set to open April 24. Now the likely opening date will be closer to summer, depending upon when the estate reopens to the public. For now, there’s simply no shame in dreaming of the wild delights that will awaken your palate during your next visit to the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate. -- SK
Cape May MAC
www.capemaymac.org
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S CHARTER MEMBERS OF THE 2020 SOCIETY
($25,000 pledges over 5 years)
Dan Barbera Curtis Bashaw Lee & Jill Bellarmino Tom & Sue Carroll Chris & Dave Clemans Tom & Peg Curran Mary & Tedd McKenney NJM Insurance Group Jay & Lisa O’Donnell Bill & Audrey Schwab Patricia Valas Joan & Dane Wells
PLATINUM MEMBERS OF THE 2020 SOCIETY
($10,000 pledges over 4 years)
John & Sylvia Baer Brown and Brown of New Jersey Bob Fite Richard and Susan Foxx Myles and Leslie Martel Doug and Anna Marie McMain Jim and Betty Moffatt Barbara Morris PNC Bank Sue Priester Catherine Rein Steve and Sandy Sheller Sturdy Savings Bank You can help ensure MAC’s future by becoming a GOLD MEMBER of the 2020 Society with a $4,500 pledge over 3 years 2020 SOCIETY DONATIONS • Charter Members ($25,000 pledge): Lee & Jill Bellarmino. • $1,000-$2,499 Silver Donors: Mad Batter (Mark Kulkowitz). • $100-$499 Friend Donors: Frank Cahill, Carolann Gaites, Original Fudge Kitchen (Joe & Paul Bogle), Allyson & Robert Parlock, G. Philip & Linda Scott. CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL DONORS • Solo Sponsor ($4,000-$9,999): Brown & Brown of NJ (Joe Battaglia), Cape May Star & Wave (David Nahan). • Senior Partner Sponsor ($3,000-$3,999): www.capemaymac.org
Sturdy Savings Bank supports Cape May MAC with a gift of $7,500 to help underwrite two popular community events in 2020 and a special event to celebrate the organization’s 50th Anniversary. Shown here, from left, Sturdy Savings Bank Business Development Officer Michael J. Clark and Sturdy Savings Bank Cape May Branch Manager Kathleen Makowski present a check to Cape May MAC Director Jody Alessandrine, with MAC’s Staff Accountant Vicki McBride and Chief Operating Officer Melissa Payne, at the Emlen Physick Estate.
John & Sylvia Baer (Raysun Property Management), Congress Hall (Curtis Bashaw), Washington Inn (the Craig Family). • Duo Sponsor ($2,000-$2,999): Cape May Herald (Art & Patricia Hall), Merion Inn (Vicki Watson), Queen Victoria B & B (Doug & Anna Marie McMain), Audrey & Bill Schwab, Virginia Hotel (Curtis Bashaw). • Trio Sponsor ($1,500-$1,999): Aleathea’s Restaurant & the Inn of Cape May (Beth Eastman), Bedford Inn (Paula Murray & Roxanne Went), Cape Publishing (Bernie Haas), Henry Sawyer Inn (Barbara Morris), Barb & Bill Killeen, Kindle Auto Plaza (Steve Kindle). • Quartet Sponsor ($1,000-$1,499): Billmae Cottage (Bob & Linda Steenrod), Carroll Villa Hotel & Mad Batter (Mark Kulkowitz & Pam Huber), Tom & Sue Carroll, Chalfonte Partners, Inc. (Bob, Linda & Dillon Mullock), Chris Clemans Sotheby’s International Realty (Chris & David Clemans), Exit Zero (Jack Wight), Leith Hall (Suzie & Elan Zingman-Leith), Mission Inn (Wendy Collins & Laura Shaddock), Princeton Strategic Communications (Norris Clark), Professional Benefit Consultants (Terry Flynn), Sheller PC (Steve & Sandy Sheller), Willow Creek Winery (Barbara Bray Wilde). • Conductor’s Circle ($500 - $999): Myles & Leslie Martel. • Presenter’s Circle ($250-$499): Lee & Jill Bellarmino, Jeanette Block, Peggy & Stan Gora, Alan & Brenda Leonard, Jill & Bud Waisbren. Cape May MAC
• Musician’s Circle ($100-$249): Roger & Dani Barnsby, Barbara & Robert Biller, Byron’s Plumbing & Heating, Inc. (Byron & Jill Vile), Ronnie & Barry Cohen, Bill Conte & Kenny Whitworth, Warren & Janet Coupland, Bill & Sue Currie, Barbara Heinrichs, Roger Henry, Tricia Kraemer, Robert & Terri Lamendola, Lori & Steve Lazan (CapeMayVacationProperties.com), Ronald Levy, Bill Paladini & Pam Nardone, Bob & Pat Pellegrini, Sandy & Mary Stewart, Christopher & Roseanne Traficante, Don White. • Friends (Under $100): Elinor Brasher, Barbara Caldwell, Scott Griffith, Mary Beth & Alexander Hager, Dan & Carol Hartman, Amelia May & Gregg Carpenter, Frank & Jeanne-Marie McCall, MaryAnn & Gus Mosso, Jaklyn Ramos, Maria Repici, Vivianne & Don Rogers. CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL: GEORGE’S ANGELS • Musician’s Circle ($100-$249): Christopher & Roseanne Traficante.
Donations
• John & Sylvia Baer, for a $1,000 donation to help maintain the Kuhner Memorial Garden. • Joyce Barth, for a $5 donation. • Bayshore Communications (Norris Clark), for a $250 donation towards Michael
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 8) Spring 2020 • Page 7
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S Donations (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7) Zuckerman’s retirement party. • Tom & Sue Carroll, for a $15,000 donation to assist in roof repairs on the out-buildings on the Physick Estate. • Robert Dixson, for a $2,500 donation to Lessons of History. • Chris Dubois, for a $5 Donation to Friends of Museum Education. • HMR Architects (Bob Russell), for a $100 donation. • Robert Fuchs & David Holland, for a $50 donation. • Graydon Hutchinson, for donating a 12 x 10 Oriental rug for the Carriage House Shop. • David & Eunice King, for a $500 donation to Lessons of History. • John Klos, for a $20 donation. • Carol Sick, for a $5 Donation to Friends of Museum Education. • Ruth Anne Stewart, for a $5 Donation to Friends of Museum Education. • Sturdy Savings Bank (Jerry Reeves), for a $7,500 donation to support the Volunteer Reception, Community Day and MAC’s 50th Anniversary Party. • Dane & Joan Wells, for a $1,000 donation in honor of Michael Zuckerman on the occasion of his retirement.
The 1859 Emlen Physick Estate is where Cape May MAC began in 1970. During this our 50th anniversary year, we invite you to visit when we reopen to the public. In the meantime, click on the photo to experience this virtual tour with MAC tour guide Jon Vile.
Assistance
• John Baldan, for transcribing historical information for MAC. • Kathy Brady, for providing cupcakes for the Lunch & Learn programs. • Jill Bremer, for updating and assembling the Lighthouse Proposal/Wedding Bags. • Cape May Methodist Church, Pastor Jeanette Block, for allowing us to use the church hall for programs. • Rich Chiemingo, for providing
In this video message to all who love Cape May and look forward to returning soon, Cape May MAC President Tom Carroll speaks about the organization’s 50th Anniversary year in 2020, and how the organization began. Click on photo to watch the video. Page 8 • Spring 2020
Cape May MAC
submarine sandwiches for the Lunch & Learn programs. • Jean Clair, for providing cookies for the Lunch & Learn programs. • Pat Everett, for providing coffee cakes for the Lunch & Learn programs and Friends of Museum Education lectures. • Judy Gatt, for providing pound cake for the Lunch & Learn programs. • Carol Hartman, for ironing the Physick House kitchen curtains. • Roger Henry, for polishing brass on the trolleys. • Barbara Hubmaster, for clipping MACrelated newspaper articles. • Barbara Lamont, for organizing the Friends of the Physick Estate Benefit Tours. • Brenda Leonard, for providing a Lunch & Learn program on Bach’s Cello Suites. • Melissa Palmer, for providing brownies and meringue cookies for Friends of Museum Education lectures. • John Pekich, for providing hoagies for the Lunch & Learn programs. • Justine Preis, for providing blueberry bars for the Lunch & Learn programs. • Ray Rebmann, for providing a Lunch & Learn on Prohibition in Cape May County. • Vivianne & Don Rogers, for providing cookies and cake for the Lunch & Learn programs and Friends of Museum Education lectures. • Mary Stewart, for providing cookies for the Lunch & Learn programs and Friends of Museum Education lectures. • Donna Szemcsak, for donating brownies for Friends of Museum Education lectures.
www.capemaymac.org
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S Congratulations
Volunteers of the Month FEBRUARY: Bill & Sue Currie MARCH: Brenda Leonard APRIL: John Baldan
• Joan Vicari, for providing cupcakes for the Lunch & Learn programs. • Susan Wiggins, for donating cake for Friends of Museum Education lectures. • Janet Yunghans, for providing cake for the Lunch & Learn programs.
Volunteers
Crafts & Collectibles in Winter Volunteers: Susan Greenspon, Nancy Hanslowe, Gus & MaryAnn Mosso, Vivianne Rogers. Collections Inventory & Condition Reports: Jill Bellarmino, Rosalie Gallagher, Judy Gatt, Carol Hartman, Barbara Lamont.
Do you miss climbing the Cape May Lighthouse? More than 25 million people have climbed to the top since Cape May MAC opened it to the public in 1988. Take a virtual climb of this iconic beacon. Click on photo to experience this virtual climb.
Friends of Museum Education Lecture Volunteers: Christine Fecteau, Susan Greenspon, Barbara Hubmaster, Don & Vivianne Rogers, Mary Stewart. Friends of the Physick Estate Advisory Team: Sue Carroll, Eileen Cassidy, Dory Coe, Judy Gatt, Peggy Gora, Carol Hartman, Barbara Lamont, Carole Sick, Mary Stewart. Friends of the Physick Estate Benefit Tour Volunteer Guides: Joyce Barth, Al Bennett, Kathleen Familletti, Carol Hartman.
Lunch & Learn Volunteers: Joan Conway, Chris DuBois, Lorrie Filter, Barbara Hubmaster, Don & Vivianne Rogers. Museum Education Volunteers: Dory Coe, Dottie & Mal Knapp, Ben Ridings, Mary Stewart. Physick Estate Grounds Volunteers: David Morais, Joe Noll, Bill Schlitzer, Theresa Schmal, Mike Smith, Jerry York. Sherlock Holmes Search for Clues Tour Houses: Angel of the Sea (Ron & Theresa Stanton), Henry Sawyer Inn (Barbara Morris), Inn of Cape May (Beth Eastman), Queen Victoria B & B (Doug & Anna Marie McMain). Sherlock Holmes Search for Clues Tour Volunteer: Megan Kately. Staff Advisory: Coupland.
Joyce
Barth,
Janet
Travel Show Booklet Mailing Volunteers: Susan Brozina, Sue Currie, Kelly Lofts, Barb Jacobs, Ginny Passon, Jan Randle, Rita Walls, Susan Wiggins, Ernestine Zeli-Bove. Volunteer Team Volunteer: Jill Bremer. Cape May MAC staff members congratulate Director Emeritus Michael Zuckerman after City Council presented Zuckerman with a commendation Tuesday, Feb. 18, honoring his 37-year tenure leading Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC), now Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture). www.capemaymac.org
Volunteers at Michael Zuckerman’s farewell party: Susan Esposito, Maureen Gallagher, John Katity, Matt Reeves, Susan Wiggins.
Cape May MAC
Spring 2020 • Page 9
Music Festival (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) of past and present pop music, and original compositions. This Convention Hall concert is co-sponsored by the City of Cape May. Paula Johns will present “THE REAL ME” From R &B, Classical, to Jazz... at Willow Creek Winery on Wednesday, September 16. The concert now takes place during the Food & Wine Celebration. Paula pays tribute to the songs and artists that have inspired her throughout her life: Nancy Wilson, Gladys Knight, Sarah Vaughn, Ella, George Mesterhazy, Lena Horne and last but not least, her mother mezzo-soprano Mertine Johns. Hopefully, the New York Chamber Ensemble will have their three-concert residency in September. The concerts include Jazzing Up the Classics featuring the return of Music Festival favorites Eddie Barbash and Ted Rosenthal; a celebration of Beethoven’s 250th Birthday featuring Beethoven’s masterwork The String Quartet in C# Minor, Opus 131 and Serenade in D Major, Op. 25 for flute, violin and viola; and Going for Baroque featuring works by Arcangelo Corelli and J.S. Bach. We will heartily welcome the return of Jed Gaylin and the Bay Atlantic Symphony, hopefully also in September. Jed has a rich program that moves from Barber’s Adagio, through the charmingly elegant and Nordic Little Suite by Nielsen, to Vivaldi’s fiercely imaginative Four Seasons. Jed is delighted to present one of the most engaging, colorful, and expressive violinists of her generation, Irina Muresanu. New Jersey‘s premier chamber
New name, new look (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) re-branding initiative to be revealed in our 50th anniversary year. Starting in 2020, we are changing our name to “Cape May MAC (Museums + Arts + Culture).” By keeping the acronym “MAC,” we maintain a link to our 50-year history as an organization. Re-defining the acronym to represent “Museums + Arts + Culture” clearly describes our multi-faceted mission and adding “Cape May” to our name reflects our focus and commitment to the Cape May region. Along with this name change comes a complete re-branding of the organization, including, a brand-new logo and website! Our new brand is a thoughtful representation of what Cape May MAC means to our residents and visitors. -- EL Page 10 • Spring 2020
Returning to this year’s Cape May Music Festival (clockwise, from top): George Mesterhazy Tribute Concert, Ted Rosenthal and Eddie Barbash.
ensemble, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Chamber Players, will return to the Festival in the Fall, with a program from the classical repertoire. The wind and string program will highlight works by Beethoven, Sibelius and Mozart. The 9th Annual George Mesterhazy Tribute Concert is tentatively scheduled for Cape May Convention Hall in October. Music Director Barry Miles has titled the concert “2020 HINDSIGHT: LOOKING BACK WITH LOVE,” and celebrates the musical legacies of George Mesterhazy and his soulmates Shirley Horn, Mark Murphy, Rebecca Parris and Tony Reedus. The Friends of the Cape May Music Festival are currently working with Eliot Bailen and Susan Rotholz to reschedule “Musical Desserts.” The intimate concert will be presented in Vintage restaurant at the Physick Estate. Members of the New York Chamber Ensemble will add the “icing on the cake” to this year’s festival. Rounding out our schedule will be these delicious offerings: Wednesdays, Sept. 9, 23 & 30: 12:30pm: Bach’s Lunch at Vintage restaurant at Cape May MAC
the Physick Estate where you can enjoy both a leisurely luncheon in the Carriage House tent and intimate concert featuring members of the Bay Atlantic Symphony. Sunday, Nov. 29: 10am: Champagne Jazz Brunch at Aleathea’s Restaurant, where you can enjoy a leisurely brunch while Mary Lou Newnam on saxophone, clarinet and flute and Sonny Troy on guitar perform selections from the Great American Songbook. As always, we are grateful to the New Jersey State Council on the Arts for their unflagging support of this series. We also thank the many Cape May area businesses who have joined on as concert sponsors and the many individuals who have contributed to the season. We also can’t forget the venues that generously open their facilities for our concerts: the Episcopal Church of the Advent, the First Presbyterian Church, Willow Creek Winey and Cape May Convention Hall. Please remember these plans are subject to the unfolding response to Covid 19. We will constantly update our website (www. capemaymac.org) as the situation requires. -- MES
www.capemaymac.org
Recent Happenings (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) “something for everyone” kind of weekend. The Friends of the Physick Estate again offered free tours of the Physick House on Friday afternoons on February 28, March 6 and 13. Barbara Lamont marshalled her troops, recruiting MAC guides Joyce Barth, Al Bennett, Kathleen Familetti and Carol Hartman to donate their time as guides. In lieu of admission, visitors donated nonperishable goods for the Cape May Food Closet. Sherlock Holmes recently made the first of his annual appearances in Cape May. This year, Emily Pruna has delivered up a chilling mystery, “Hark! How the Bells,” featuring a villain simply known as Jack Frost. Our crew of amateur thespians entertained a small but competitive crowd. Our Grand Prize winner was Amy Soldavini of Rockville, MD. The dubious title of “Clueless Wonder” went to Jeffrey Poltriczky of Ocean, NJ. Congratulations to both. Thanks also to the East Lynne Theater Company for partnering with us during Sherlock Holmes Weekend by offering The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle in the format of old-time radio. We had anticipated opening our 50 Years of MAC exhibit on March 27 but as Robert Burns said, “The best laid schemes
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Friends, colleagues, officials and guests gathered in a farewell party to honor Director Emeritus Michael Zuckerman Friday, Feb. 21 at West Cape May Fire Hall. Shown here, Michael received a standing ovation from the packed hall.
o’ mice an’ men gang aft a’gley.” Jean Barraclough has been busy working in the Carroll Gallery since early February, bringing the vision of Curator Janet Coupland to actuality. I can guarantee you it’s a fabulous exhibit and we will open it as soon as it is safe for visitors to enjoy our historic site. -- MES
Education wrap-up Winter came in like a lion in the Museum Education Department, roaring through
Cape May MAC’s Director Jody Alessandrine, above left, with Director Emeritus, Michael Zuckerman, at Zuckerman’s retirement party Feb. 21. Michael passed this “baton/button” that was given to Michael many years ago to Jody as a token of longevity and support for the joys and challenges that lay ahead. The Cape May MAC Board honored Michael with a moving proclamation, among several other presentations. Left, Board Trustee Jeanette Block reads the proclamation, as Michael and Board President Tom Carroll look on. Michael’s longtime friends and local nonprofit cultural leaders Anne Salvatore and Dr. Joseph Salvatore presented Michael with tokens of their friendship and appreciation, including this handcrafted sign.
Lunch and Learn season with record numbers from January through mid-March. We were invited to Cape May Elementary School’s annual S.T.E.A.M. Festival. For this year’s theme, Connections, Mary Stewart showed students how Victorians connected through sewing, and demonstrated how the Industrial Revolution opened up highways of opportunity for generations of tailors and seamstresses to come. Melissa Palmer made several visits to schools and senior centers, notably with Romances We Love to Watch, an expansion on our Classical Films program. Although the close of the winter brought an unexpected and abrupt change to the way we work, we continue to present in schools and senior centers. Museum Education has adapted to online-accessible lectures, resources and experiences through our newly-formed Friends of MAC Museum Education Facebook Group, on YouTube and through our website. Thanks to our readiness to adapt, and with educators like Brenda Leonard, Ben Ridings and Mary Stewart, we have been able to create an environment where teachers, community leaders and experts from home can share facts, educational materials and songs in a time where, much like the Victorians, many are doing their cultural and historical studies at home. We are currently partnering with A.C.C.C. through video-conferencing and interviews, providing students who had previously planned to visit historic sites with face-to-face time with experts on their subjects of choice. Special thanks to Mary Stewart for being the first to jump on to this initiative. Ever adapting and forging through our most unsettled times, we at MAC’s Museum Education are here for our patrons! -- MP
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A message from the Director:
MAC needs your support Our entire MAC staff is diligently working to resume our schedule of tours and operations in the face of this historic COVID-19 challenge. But we cannot get through it alone. Now more than ever, we need you to show how you’ve appreciated what MAC has provided culturally to enrich your life during our 50-year history, so that we can continue to do so for you and future generations of your family. Of course, donations are most welcome and appreciated. As are ticket purchases now, that can be used once we’re back in operation, for any number of MAC tours and events. Everything helps. And please don’t forget to patronize our local businesses, many of whom help support us through advertising in The Week in Cape May and as event sponsors. Seasonal businesses don’t have as much time to recover and they need our help, too. Jody Alessandrine Director/CEO DONATE TO MAC