Spring Newsletter

Cape May Music Festival offers exciting line-up

The 34th Cape May Music Festival, which brings together musicians across genres, kicks off Thursday, May 25, and will continue with live events until June 22. Cape May MAC will again partner with Jed Gaylin, the music director of the Bay Atlantic Symphony, and Eliot Bailen, artistic director of the

New York Chamber Ensemble. All performances will be held at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

The festival begins May 25 with a performer new to the festival, OkCello, an Atlanta-based cellist and songwriter whose

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BLACK FOOTPRINTS ON WHITE SANDS: May 5 presentation by Chase Jackson with artist Chanelle René’s works on display

Community Arts Activist Chase Jackson brings to life the history of beach life among African Americans in a presentation Friday, May 5 at 7 p.m. at Cape May Stage, 405 Lafayette St., that explores how race and leisure intersect.

The very idea of African Americans enjoying leisure spaces alongside whites was a challenge during the Jim Crow era because it implied Equality. Out of necessity, African American activists and businesspeople created their own beach communities. In “Black Footprints on White Sands: Historical African American Beaches and Resorts,” Jackson explores the past and provides an update on where the imprints touch down now and why.

Jackson is an arts administrator and community arts activist. She believes that even though the arts can be created for aesthetic and intellectual purposes and judged for beauty and meaningfulness, the arts can also be used as an educational, motivational and economic development tool as well as a tool for cross cultural communication and interactions. She is executive director of Ocean City Arts Center, holds a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Elizabeth City State University and holds a certificate in arts administration from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School in Chapel Hill. She has

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Exhibit and house tour shine light on Victorian medicine

A new exhibit opening at the Carroll Gallery and the new 2023-24 guided tour of the Physick House Museum have a common thread that sheds light on Victorian medicine, and on Dr. Physick’s influence in particular, and both begin on April 14.

The Carroll Gallery exhibit is titled “Quackery: The Age of Questionable Medical Marvels” and will be offered daily from Friday, April 14-Sunday, Oct. 29.

While many legitimate and important advances in medicine were made

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Design assistant Steven Olszewski works on the medicine wagon, part of the “Quackery” exhibit in the Carroll Gallery.

RECENT HAPPENINGS

Winter Wrap-Up

On Feb. 9, a Cape May MAC crew descended on the First Baptist Church of Wildwood. We had volunteered as an organization to provide the meal for the Thursday Lunch Program run by the church. Cathy Baldacchini, Carla Colson, Anna Leeper, Anna Marie Shelton, Mary Stewart and Donna Szemcsak put their culinary skills on display for an enthusiastic audience.

As usual, we had a busy Presidents Day Weekend line-up. Crafts & Collectibles in Winter took over Convention Hall and attracted more than 1,500 visitors eager for a “shop till you drop” experience. The Cape May Lighthouse was open an extra two days for the holiday weekend. Trolleys rolled around town night and day. The Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour was particularly popular. Brunch & Bingo at Bella Vida was back on the schedule and was repeated in March. We have an avid group of followers who are frequent flyers for the event. Our thanks go to Lace Silhouettes and Cotton Company for providing such entertaining fashion shows and providing prizes. Another popular event has popped back up on our schedule after a pandemic hiatus. The Cape May Wine Trails are back by popular acclaim and it’s definitely a hot ticket.

Tour Director Nanci Coughlin and her staff shook up the trolley tour schedule this season, adding in Mansions by the Sea Trolley Tours, Roots of Cape May Trolley Tours and Cape May Forgotten Sports Trolley Tours into our regular rotation. It proved to be a good idea, offering visitors the opportunity to try more than the Historic District

Trolley Tour if they’re here for the weekend. Sunday, March 5 was a big day for us. Jeff Gernitis, owner of FiNS, designated that day as our Sunday Social. There was an incredible turn-out of Cape May MAC members, supporters, staff and board and at the end of the day, Jeff presented us with a check for $3,600. These funds will be dedicated to the 34th annual Cape May Music Festival, which starts May 25.

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, Sara Kornacki, Susan Krysiak, Anna Marie Leeper, Evelyn Maguire and Mary E. Stewart

OUR MISSION

Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) 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

Brenda Leonard has been maintaining her consistent high standard in Lunch & Learn presentations. We had programs on Modern Art by John Curtis and the Impact of Immigration by Ted Bryan, and a particularly fascinating and dynamic presentation on Women in Math by Cape May MAC Registrar Donna Szemcsak. Donna couldn’t curb her enthusiasm for the subject and we’re scheduling a second session so she can complete her story. Make sure you check your emails or the Cape May MAC WEBSITE HERE for upcoming programs.

The Museum Education Division has been visiting locations in the area regularly. We visit the folks at the Blind Center of the Jersey Cape the second Tuesday of each month. Mark Allen joined us in February for a program on Amelia Earhart. Mary Stewart presented on the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day in March. Victorian Towers and Haven House (North Cape May) are also two of our frequent flyers. Of course, Valentine’s Day was a popular topic in February. We presented to the JOY Group at the First Methodist Church of North Wildwood, Haven House (with a workshop to make Valentine’s Day cards) and Dennis Primary School

Cape May MAC’s public history programs are funded in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission in the Department of State.

Photo by Susan Krysiak

On March 5, FiNS owner Jeff Gernitis presented a check to Cape May MAC in the amount of $3,600, after a very successful Sunday Social event. Shown here, from left, President Brian Groetsch, Gernitis, Director & CEO Jody Alessandrine, and Chief Outreach Officer Eliza Lotozo.

ATTRACTIONS Coming

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Brunch & Bingo at the Inn of Cape May

The Inn of Cape May is ready to host you for 10 rounds of bingo over a delicious breakfast. Laugh along with your friends as you play a little bingo, compete for prizes and enjoy a fashion show by Lace Silhouettes/Cotton Company. It’s all over a scrumptious breakfast at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St., Cape May. Mark your calendar now: April 8 and May 13 at 9 a.m. Admission is $30 for adults. Advance purchase required. Capacity is limited. VISIT HERE for more information and to purchase tickets.

Vintage B.Y.O.B.

Vintage B.Y.O.B. offers brunch and dinner beginning Friday April 14 and features exciting menu items. Outdoor dining under the tent is a hallmark of Vintage. Dine on the patio of the Carriage House at the historic 1879 Emlen Physick Estate. The Carriage House Museum Shop is a licensed retail outlet for Cape May Winery wines, available with brunch or dinner. Stop in the shop when you arrive or bring your own. Vintage is dog-friendly, has plenty of outdoor seating and take-out is available. Parking is free. Dinner is offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning April 14, 5pm–8:30pm (last seating). Brunch is offered Saturdays and Sundays beginning April 15, 10am-3pm. Vintage is open daily (except Mondays) beginning June 1. For reservations, CLICK HERE or call (609) 224-6064. For takeout, call (609) 224-6064. VISIT HERE for more information and menu.

Sherlock Holmes Weekends

Join fellow sleuths over two weekends of mystery in 2023 at La Mer Beachfront Resort with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s master sleuth, Sherlock Holmes, and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson. There’s still a place this spring April 14-16 for you to don your deerstalker in the original mystery, “Sherlock Holmes & Send In the Clowns!” by Jacklyn Fazio. When Sherlock and Watson find themselves under the big top, a simple favor for a friend turns into a spectacle that our heroes were not prepared to witness. Will they be able to figure out who is terrorizing the circus and its dedicated performers before it’s too late? This fall, Nov. 3-5 and Nov. 1012, are two more opportunities to put your detective skills to the test with a new mystery, “Sherlock Holmes & The Case of the Other Consulting Detective.” Sherlock Holmes has long claimed that he is the only man in his profession. But when his newest case brings visitors from across the pond seeking to solve the same mystery, will they learn to cooperate, or only compete? Get into the spirit and dress in Victorian attire! Stalk the gaslit streets in search of clues and compete for the grand prize valued at $300 and a variety of other valuable gifts as you attempt to solve these mysteries. Advance purchase is required. Accommodations may be purchased separately. VISIT HERE for more information and to purchase tickets.

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FULL MOON CLIMBS AT THE CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE

April 6, May 5, June 3, July 2, Aug. 1 and Aug. 30: 8pm-10pm; Sept. 29 and Oct. 28: 7pm9pm: Don’t miss this special chance on clear nights to see the spectacular full moon in all its glory! Admission for these special evening climbs is $20 adults, and $10 for children ages 3-12. Tickets are available for purchase on site the evening of the event. CLICK HERE.

STAIRWAY TO THE STARS

LIGHTHOUSE CLIMBS

April 20, May 19, June 18, July 17, Aug. 16 and Sept. 14: 8pm-10pm; Oct. 14 and Nov. 13: 7pm-9pm: On evenings of the new moon, the moon is so dark it blends in with the night sky and is invisible to the naked eye. Stars and constellations are more visible on clear nights during the new moon. Climbers can enjoy a nighttime view nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Admission for these climbs is $20 adults, and $10 for children ages 3-12. Tickets are available for purchase on site the evening of the event. CLICK HERE.

FREE ADMISSION FOR MOMS ON MOTHER’S DAY AND DADS ON FATHER’S DAY

Cape May Lighthouse

World War II Lookout Tower

Forgotten Sports History Trolley Tour

Sunday, May 14 & Sunday, June 18: Moms and dads are admitted free on their respective holidays, Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 14, and Father’s Day on Sunday, June 18, to several Cape May MAC experiences: the CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE, the WORLD WAR II LOOKOUT TOWER and the FORGOTTEN SPORTS HISTORY TROLLEY TOUR! Thanks mom and dad!

New! CAPE MAY’S MARITIME COMBO TOUR

Begins June 1: The remarkable maritime history of our seaside town has long defined the Cape May story. Board the trolley and rediscover the important places and natural phenomena that have shaped the Cape May we know today. The trolley then stops at Fisherman’s Wharf for an up-close walking tour about Cape May’s commercial fishing industry on the docks at The Lobster House. Tour begins and ends at Washington Street Mall Information Booth. Tour is not accessible. Call 609-884-5404 for ticket information.

COMMUNITY DAY

Sunday, June 25: For 31 years, Cape May MAC Community Day has aimed to connect Cape May residents with the historic landmarks in their own neighborhood. Enjoy free admission to the Cape May Lighthouse (10am-5pm), the World War II Lookout Tower (11am-3pm) and the Historic District Trolley Tours, especially for Cape May County residents. Photo ID is required for county residents.

ATTRACTIONS Coming

609-884-5404 • www.capemaymac.org • 800-275-4278

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Murder Mystery Dinner: The Plot Thickens

Enjoy a three-course dinner and watch as the mystery and drama unfold around you during “The Plot Thickens.” Tensions rise when a celebration for an esteemed murder mystery author turns into a crime scene right out of one of her own books. Once the guest of honor is pronounced dead, how will her dedicated staff and adoring fans cope? Offered at 7 p.m. May 17, 24 and 31, June 7, Sept. 25 and 27, Oct. 2 and 4. Limited event. The Chalfonte Hotel, 301 Howard St. Advance reservations required. VISIT HERE for more information and to purchase tickets.

Armed Forces Day

Saturday, May 20, 11am-3pm: Enjoy free admission on Armed Forces Day when you visit the World War II Lookout Tower on Sunset Boulevard. Visit with veterans on Armed Forces Day and learn about how Fort Miles helped protect the coastline from attack during World War II. VISIT HERE for more information.

The Gardens of Cape May Tour

June 17 (Rain date June 18), 1pm-4pm: This is your invitation to explore Cape May’s unique natural areas and the private plants, blooms and landscape designs of area gardeners. See both public and private gardens and take home ideas for your own landscape. Smell and see what’s blooming and flourishing in several different seashore locations dominated by sunlight, ocean breezes, and sand and salt, each uniquely situated. Cape May’s Emlen Physick Estate gardens are included as well as The Nature Conservancy’s Garrett Family Preserve. The Physick Estate will host nature and garden-themed local vendors, plus a complimentary wine tasting by Cape May Winery. VISIT HERE for more information and to purchase tickets.

Summer Book Club

Join in a series of lively book discussions on Facebook Live designed for everyone, in Cape May MAC’s Summer Book Club kicking off June 16 and running in two-week periods until late August. The theme of this summer’s Book Club is “Classic to Modern Ghost Stories,” and it will feature five ghostly novels, ranging from a 19th-century haunted house tale to a recently published horror novel born from Native American folklore. This summer marks the second year for the book club: a free, literary arts program run by Cape May MAC’s Digital Marketing Manager Evelyn Maguire, who will lead the discussion. The full book list, in order of appearance, is The Turn of the Screw (James), The Haunting of Hill House (Jackson), Beloved (Morrison), Lincoln in the Bardo (Saunders), and The Only Good Indians (Jones). BOOKMARK THIS PAGE and check back soon for more details.

LUNCH & LEARNS

Cape May Lutheran Church Hall

509 Pittsburgh Ave., Cape May

Bring a bag lunch and learn during these informative talks on popular topics of history, culture, science and the arts. Lunch & Learn programs are offered both LIVE at the Cape May Lutheran Church Hall, 509 Pittsburgh Ave. and by ZOOM. You may bring your lunch and beverage, but no food or drink is provided. The hall is accessible and free parking is available. No registration is needed if you plan to attend in person. VISIT HERE for more information. See upcoming programs, below:

“MARVELS AND MISSTEPS: MEDICINE DURING THE VICTORIAN ERA”

Wednesday, April 19: 12pm: The Victorian Era saw considerable advancements in the medical community. However, potent drugs and questionable procedures also rose to predominance. Ben Ridings talks about the triumphs, tragedies, and tricksters of the medical profession in the era. CLICK HERE to register now.

“MORE ABOUT MUSIC: COMPOSERS OF THE 2023 CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL”

Wednesday, May 3: 12pm: As our Cape May Music Festival kicks off, Dr. Brenda Leonard familiarizes us with some of the less-wellknown composers whose works are being performed in the next few weeks. Perhaps you’ll find a new favorite! CLICK HERE to register now.

“THE HISTORY OF THEATER IN CAPE MAY”

Wednesday, May 17: 12pm: Roy Steinberg of Cape May Stage takes us on an exploration of theatre in Cape May, from the 19th century opera and vaudeville through the 20th century star packages and summer stock to the creation of theater companies that exist today. We will discuss contemporary Cape May demographics and national trends and union protocols to guess at the future. CLICK HERE to register now.

“IT’S A GRAND OLD FLAG”

Thursday, June 8: 12pm (Note change of day for June): We’re all familiar with the Stars and Stripes, our national flag. But when did it come about, who designed it, and why do we celebrate on June 14th? Old Glory has served as the symbol of our nation from our very beginnings. Join Mary Stewart to learn about the history of our flag and the day we celebrate it. CLICK HERE to register now.

“MORE ABOUT MUSIC: MOZART’S LAST SYMPHONY, THE JUPITER”

Thursday, June 22: 12pm (Note change of day for June): The last concert of our Cape May Music Festival will end with a performance of the last symphony of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – his 41st. Join Bay Atlantic Symphony conductor Jed Gaylin and symphony cellist and MAC Museum Educator Brenda Leonard for an in-depth look at this landmark composition. CLICK HERE to register now. --

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You’re having an impact!

Cape May MAC is involved in a lot of things. This is something I’ve been aware of to some degree since I was a child growing up in the hotel business. However, the extent of Cape May MAC’s activities didn’t become clear to me until nine years ago when I embarked on my “orientation” as a new member of the Board of Trustees with Director Emeritus Michael Zuckerman and continue to discover today as Board President.

From the preservation and interpretation of our three historic sites, managing the trolley fleet, festivals at the estate, and the hundreds of programs which include over 3,000 individual time slots of offerings each year, Cape May MAC has a reach that can be a challenge to truly get your arms around. During the latest Strategic Planning Session, the staff and leadership of Cape May MAC decided to attempt to do just that -- determine MAC’s impact on our region and the local economy.

After consulting with some partners who have performed studies like this in the past, Cape May MAC retained a well-known

economics firm that spent the next several months evaluating Cape May MAC’s operations and exploring its reach. The results of such a search can provide valuable insight to leadership on how to best manage resources, evaluate existing programs and can be a difference maker in articulating the

Exhibit and house tour

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during the Victorian era, this exhibit features the less reputable side of things. Many “curatives” were not only ineffective, they were downright dangerous. Learn about these so-called remedies, and the societal and economic forces that unleashed these questionable treatments on the public, driven by hucksterism, false advertising and get-rich-quick schemes. Check out Prof. Hudzik’s Medicine Wagon—a replica of what would have been used to purvey such cure-alls, complete with a QR code to hear what his spiel would have sounded like! The Carroll Gallery is in the Carriage House on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Admission to the Carroll Gallery is free.

Complementing the exhibit is a new guided tour of the 1879 Physick House Museum in 2023-24, titled, “The Doctor Is In” beginning Friday, April 14. As the title suggests, the tour is about Dr. Physick and his influence as a trained doctor. Despite never practicing medicine, Dr. Emlen Physick meaningfully affected the Cape

May medical community. Learn about the doctor, his influence around town, and common health practices around the turn of the 20th century. Each year a new tour of the Physick House Museum is curated that brings out unique items from the collection and brings new understanding to the story of this Cape May Victorian household. The Emlen Physick Estate is located at 1048 Washington St. Admission to the Emlen Physick Estate Tour is $20 adults, $15 children (ages 3-12).

To purchase tickets, CLICK HERE.

importance of supporting Cape May MAC in the many grant applications our staff undertakes each year.

The preliminary results of the economic impact study have been received and are nothing short of amazing. It revealed that in 2021, Cape May MAC’s activities had a total economic impact in the Cape May area of over $148 Million. This includes over $106 Million in direct spending, the generation of 1,500 full and part time jobs, as well as over $20 Million in state and local tax revenues collected.

Whether you are reading this as one of Cape May MAC’s 18 dedicated year-round or 119 seasonal staff, one of our over 300 committed volunteers or one of the over 3,000 generous members, please know that you are having an impact on your community greater than you could have imagined. I would like to express the gratitude of the Cape May MAC Board of Trustees for your work, and we are excited to spread the good word about the impact you are having in the coming days.

Stay tuned!

MAC

Individual: Lisa Babb of Hinsdale, NY; Dana Devine of Villas, NJ; Anthony Ferraina of Tuckerton, NJ.

Joint: Patricia & Joseph Alibrando of West Berlin, NJ; Merideth & Michael Bolton of Branchburg, NJ; Denise Bradley & Doug Bartus of North Wales, PA; Jaime & John Gould of Cape May, NJ; Marnee & Gary Shuhart of Berlin, NJ; Sandra & Charles Sieber of Villas, NJ.

Family/Grandparent: Loretta Kelly & John Bloor of West Cape May, NJ; Jen & Sean McPeek of Newton, NJ; Sharon Mineo & Laura Lodge of Cape May, NJ.

Congratulations to:

Chris & Erin Shoemaker, on the birth of their son, George

Condolences to:

Matt & Sue Dowling, on the death of Sue’s brother; former Cape May MAC Director Michael Zuckerman, on the death of his wife of nearly 45 years, Evelyn.

Get Well Wishes to:

Dave Adams, Sr., former Cape May MAC maintenance staff.

The annual Staff Kickoff March 30 featured a potluck dinner, a good deal of socializing, and a pin ceremony to recognize staff milestones. Shown here, from left, Joyce Barth (30 years), Yvonne Kuemmerle (10 years), Mary Stewart (35 years), Nancy Thompson (15 years), Jean Clair (15 years), Director & CEO Jody Alessandrine, Anne Burrows (20 years), William McCay (5 years), Scott Griffith (15 years), and Eileen McDevitt (5 years). Not shown (5 years): Michael Alimo, Suzanne Deamer, Geraldine Kennedy, Mary Squiccimara, Karen Van Varick-McGuire; (10 years): Sonja Hipple, Jon Vile; (15 years): Sue Dowling, Sue Evangelista.

Photo by Susan Krysiak

‘THANK YOU’ NEWS

ANNUAL APPEAL DONATIONS

$100-$249 Donors: Dan & Jane ValdesDapena.

CAPE MAY MAC PRESERVATION FUND

Under $100 Donors: Henry & Carol Mauermeyer, Eric Muck, Karen Smith, Kevin & Kathe Stepanuk.

LESSONS OF HISTORY FUND DONATIONS

$100-$249 Donors: Joseph & Eileen Cassidy.

PHYSICK HOUSE HVAC PROJECT DONORS

$1,000-$1,999 Donors: Uncle Bill’s Pancake House (Thomas & Nancy O’Hara)

$250-$499 Donors: Cape May Riggins (Barney Linn), Lucky Bones Backwater Grille (David Craig), The Periwinkle Inn, RCM Electrical Services (Robert Miller), Victorian Motel.

$100-$249 Donors: Camelot Motel, McDonald’s North Cape May (Liz Hodge) Stitch by Stitch (Sharon Kraemer), Just for Laughs and Kaleidescope (Barry Tischler).

Under $100 Donors: Jill Crosson, Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast.

CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL DONORS

Senior Partner Sponsor ($3,000-$3,999): FiNS Bar & Grille.

Quartet Sponsor ($1,000-$1,499): Barbara Morris.

Presenter’s Circle ($250-$499): Bill & Sue Currie, Stan & Peggy Gora.

Musician’s Circle ($100-$249): Ron Frech, Francis & Pat Villani.

Friends (Under $100): Joseph & Eileen Cassidy.

Major Donations

• Lee & Jill Bellarmino, for a $5,000 donation to the Cape May MAC Preservation Fund.

• Princeton Strategic Communications, for a $2,100 donation to Operations.

• Catherine A. Rein, for a $500 donation to Operations.

Donations

• Betsy Alverson, for donating a Noella Leduc All American Girls Professional Baseball League Baseball Card to the Carroll Gallery Exhibit on Women’s Baseball.

• Stefanie Bodine, for a $25 donation to the online auction.

• Michael Depiano, for a $10 donation to Operations.

• Kate Gibbons, for a $10 donation to Operations.

• Charles Jamison, for a $100 donation to the Physick Estate.

• Judy Laporta, for a $25 donation to Operations.

• Peter & Kathy Manzetti, for a $25 donation to Operations.

• Walter Olsen, for a $10 donation to Operations.

• Barbara Robuson, for donating historical items from All Americal Girls Professional Baseball League player Ruth Williams Heverly to the Carroll Gallery Exhibit on Women’s Baseball.

• Christopher & Elizabeth Stouffer, for a $50 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse.

• Women’s Community Club of Cape May, for a $50 donation to Operations.

2023 Online Auction Donors: 410 Bank Street (Craig Garrabrant), The Absecon Lighthouse (Milt Glenn), Jody Alessandrine, Art Pottery Studio (Susan Fox Hirschmann), Cathy Baldacchini, Bayshore Center at Bivalve (Teri Watson), Beachcomber Camping Resort (Jessica Lawrence), Joan Berkey, Cape Island Foods (Susan Spatocco), Cape May County Zoo and Cape May County Department of Tourism (Diane Weiland), Cape May Day Spa (Jennifer Hay), Cape May MAC, Cape May Stage (Wendy Collins),Tom Carroll, Chanticleer Gardens, Cheryl Patton Wu, Chez Michel (Michel Gras), Church’s Garden Center (Dave & Paul Church), Coastline Realty (Ami Menz), The College of Physicians of Philadelphia- The Mutter Museum (Erin Schekenbach), DRBA (Mike Porch), Theresa DuRoss, East Lynne Theater (Bill Grau), Joe Evangelista, Exit 0 Filling Station (Courtney Rosenberg), Flying Fish Studio (Sue Lotozo), Guppi (Abby Macqueen), Icona Resorts (Caitlin Kelly Ludlum), The Inn of Cape May (Jeri Anne Gerace), Ivy Designs LLC (Ivana Bozhinovska), Japan America Society of Philadelphia (Giulia Ciofini), KGS Photo (Kris Schoenleber), La Mer (Theresa Torsiello), Lace Silhouettes Linger (Michelle Ward), Brenda

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Leonard, Longwood Gardens, Lud-

Photo by Susan Krysiak

On March 30, Sturdy Savings Bank renewed support for Cape May MAC community events by presenting a check for $7,500 that will be put toward the Cape May MAC Volunteer Appreciation Reception, April 25; Community Day, June 25; and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Nov. 18 at the Physick Estate. Shown here, from left, Cape May MAC Chief Outreach Strategist Mary Stewart, Sturdy Savings Bank President & CEO Gregory M. Matuson, Cape May MAC Director & CEO Jody Alessandrine and Sturdy Savings Bank Assistant Vice President & Cape May Branch Manager Nichol Hoff.

Donations

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lam Island Brewery (Billy Topley), Madison Resorts (Brian Jones), Janey McNutt, Carol Mohr, Morris County Historical Society (Pat Goodfriend), Museum of the American Revolution, Museum of Early Trades and Crafts (Elizabeth Quay), The Nature Center of Cape May (Gretchen Whitman), NJ Audubon- The Cape May Bird Observatory (Shannon DeAngelis), Steven Olszewski, The Original Fudge Kitchen (Michelle Ward), Pedego (Sharon Cassidy), Phil Courtney Art (Phil Courtney), Philadelphia Museum of Art (Kalleen McLaughlin), PhilaLandmarks (Lauren WEgrocki-Smith), Amy Reade, Red Robot Creative (Jim Zahniser), Revolution Rail (Jake Cuomo), Ben Ridings, Rosemary Rombado, Lillian Rozin, Frank Scott, Mary Stewart, Tuckerton Seaport (Brooke Salvanto), The Wetlands Institute (Rae Griffiths), The Whale’s Tale (Hilary Pritchard), Wheaton Arts (Kellie Haines), Gretchen Whitman & Mark Allen, Anna Wise.

Ticket Buyers who added a donation when purchasing tickets: Christiane Bardarson, John Boecker, Carolyn Brehm, Kathy Canum, Annie Chan, Randy Chase, Tricia Collins, Gerard Crean, Michael Depiano, Carol Farrar, Jane Foran, Ron Frech, Linda Fulford, Brennan Gian-Grasso, Lee Gow, Kate Grady, Steven Hershkowitz, Kathleen Holzer-Muniz, Chris Johnston, Rita Kiefer, Hyo sung Kim, Tracey Kontor, Jim Lothian, Mary Mcgough, Herb Meikle, Lauren Mund, Jackie Newell, Alexis Orillo, James Panacek, Sue Parisano, Karen Peetz, Daniel Scofield, Maureen Shields, Christina Spadaro, Patricia Stewart, Michele Tiedemann, Jeanne White.

Special Assistance

• Ted Bryan, for providing a presentation on the Impact of Immigration for Lunch & Learn.

• Pastor Jeff Elliott and the Cape May Lutheran Church, for the use of the church hall for Lunch & Learn programs.

• John Curtis, for Lunch & Learn presentation on Modern Art.

• Jocelyn Duquette, for assisting with inventory in the Physick House Museum.

• Kathy Genzoli, for assisting with inventory in the Physick House Museum.

• Karen Hammeran, for assisting with inventory in the Physick House Museum.

• Mal and Dottie Knapp, for presenting a Lunch & Learn on Maritime History.

• Jacquie Newman, for assisting with inventory in the Physick House Museum.

• Donna Szemcsak, for presenting a Lunch & Learn on Women Who Used that Four Letter Word- Math.

Volunteers

• Brunch & Bingo at Bella Vida Volunteers: Sue Currie, Jean Grazel.

• Community Lunch Program at the First Baptist Church of Wildwood Volunteers:

Cathy Baldacchini, Carla Colson, Anna Leeper, Anna Marie Shelton, Mary Stewart, Donna Szemcsak.

• Crafts & Collectibles Show in Winter Volunteers: Cathy Baldacchini, Donna Flegal, Rich Mayer, Kathy Morais, Tricia Nolfi, Patricia Potts, Joan Ryan.

• Mailing Campaign Volunteers: Jocelyn Duquette, Roger Henry, Rich Mayer, Stephanie Moser, Carey Nathan.

Cape May’s Emlen Physick Estate was named the “Most Beautiful Building in Your State” for New Jersey in an article by Angi.com Dec. 8, 2022, then again in MSN.com this year. The analysis used TripAdvisor reviews in 132 countries and each U.S. state — looking at architectural buildings, churches and cathedrals, government buildings, religious sites, historic sites and points of interest. The most beautiful building in each U.S. state is the building with the most mentions of the word “beautiful” in respective reviews. Data was collected in August 2022. READ MORE.

Black footprints

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more than 40 years of experience in nonprofit management and is an accomplished storyteller, producer, director, actor, talent manager and blues belter. She is on the steering committee of the Creating Change Network, a program hosted by New Jersey Theatre Alliance and ArtPride New Jersey that aims to build a more equitable, just, and anti-racist arts community in New Jersey. During her time in Cape May County, she has produced numerous plays, story and poetry slams through her production company, ChaseArts, as well as been active with several local nonprofits as a consultant and volunteer.

Two works by local artist Chanelle René will be on display and for sale at this event. René is an award-winning, self-taught artist who embraced painting as self-care during the “pandemic pause,” transitioning from a 20-plus year career in digital marketing to a career as a professional artist. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including at the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition, Noyes Art Museum, Cape May MAC, The Curator’s Salon, and Ocean City Arts Center, where she was recognized as 2021 Best of Show winner. Born in West Cape May, Chanelle René currently works out of her home studio in Middle Township.

Her Grant Beach Series depicts the segregated beach of Cape May, New Jersey. Working from the artist’s own family photographs and those of other Black families, these works depict joyful everyday moments of African American beach-goers in Cape May from the 1920s through the 1960s. Energetic mark making in stark contrast with detailed figures dressed in dual-tone color done in oil and mixed media allows the past to speak to the present. Each work explores the complexity and nuance of the human spirit while celebrating generations of Black beach goers as they transition from segregation to making Grant Street Beach a tradition of choice.

This event is presented by Cape May MAC in association with Chase Jackson and hosted by Cape May Stage. Tickets are $20 for adults and may be purchased ONLINE HERE or by calling 609-884-5404.

“Good times at Grant Street” by Chanelle René

Photos by Susan Krysiak The Cape May Wine Trails have returned in 2023! Patrons travel by trolley to Pier House in Cape May for a delicious lunch, then it’s back on the trolley for an afternoon of touring and sampling wine selections by vintners at Jessie Creek Winery and Natali Vineyards. Cape May Wine Trails are offered at 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, May 6 and Fridays, Sept. 22 and Oct. 6. (April 29 sold out!) The tour returns to the Physick Estate by 5 p.m. Admission is $125 per person inclusive. This tour is for adults ages 21 and over.

Cape May Music Festival

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work draws from themes and expressions of the African Diaspora. OKCello will perform at the Episcopal Church of the Advent. Admission is $35 for adults, $30 for Cape May MAC members, and $25 for students.

Memorial Day Weekend celebrations continue May 28 with the award-winning Atlantic Brass Band, playing a series of patriotic tunes at the Rotary Park Bandstand (rain location: Cape May Convention Hall). Admission to this concert is free.

On May 30, singer and saxophonist Erich Cawalla, another new addition to the festival, will perform at Cape May Convention Hall. Cawalla is known for his signature blend of jazz with contemporary R&B—and for this performance, Cawalla has assembled a stellar band to perform favorite hits from world-class artists such as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Mel Torme, Smokey Robinson, Nat King Cole and many more. Admission is $35 for adults, $30 for Cape May MAC members and $25 for students.

For those who believe that music is best served alongside a tasty meal, the Washington Inn will graciously host a Bach’s Lunch at 12:30 p.m. on May 31, June 7, and again on June 21. Enjoy classical music performed by members of the Bay Atlantic Symphony, while sharing a memorable meal at one of the top-ranked Cape May restaurants. Admission is $50 for adults, $45 for Cape May MAC members.

On June 4, the food and music pairings continue with a Jazz Brunch, hosted by the newly renovated Inn of Cape May at 10 a.m. Enjoy selections from the Great American Songbook over brunch with jazz performers Mary Lou Newnam on saxophone, clarinet and flute, and Ray Malach on piano. Admission is $50.

Friends of the Cape May Music Festival will be hosting their annual fundraiser, titled “Midday Music and More,” at the Washington Inn on June 14 at 12:30 p.m. Following this luncheon, attendees are invited to stay for a performance by two members of the New York Chamber Ensemble—Eliot Bailen on cello and Susan Rotholz on flute—with Jed Gaylin from the Bay Atlantic Symphony. Admission is $50 inclusive per person. Proceeds help support classical music performances in Cape May.

Cape May MAC has always been honored to feature classical chamber music as a staple of the Cape May Music Festival, and that tradition continues this year with visits from the New York Chamber Ensemble, the Bay Atlantic Symphony, and the New

Jersey Symphony Chamber Players. Each will perform at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, with admission available at $30 for adults, $25 for members, and $20 for students. On June 1, Eliot Bailen and the New York Chamber Ensemble will perform a series of grandiose Baroque pieces, including Johann Sebastian Bach’s Triple Concerto. For their second performance on June 6, the theme is “The Heavenly Harp with Flute and Strings” with suites that highlight—you guessed it—the harp, played by musician Stacey Shames. Finally, “A Schumann Masterpiece” will take place on June 15, with Margaret Kampmeier on piano, featuring Robert Schumann’s Piano Quartet, Op. 47 alongside other works. Jed Gaylin and the Bay Atlantic Symphony will perform on June 8. This performance will include Argentine composer Oswaldo Golijov’s tribute to Astor Piazzolla––and therefore to Tango—along with selected, jaunty melodies of the renowned Austrian composer Franz Schubert. On June 13, the New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players, a string quartet comprised of Héctor Falcón on violin, Bryan Hernandez-Luch on violin, Brett Deubner on viola, and Nayoung Baek on cello, will perform lively pieces by Wynton Marsalis, Samuel Barber, and Astor Piazzolla.

The annual George Mesterhazy Tribute Concert will return on June 18 at Cape

May Convention Hall. Mesterhazy was a Grammy-nominated jazz musician—remembered fondly as the featured pianist at the Merion Inn. George’s close-knit musical colleagues share how George enriched their lives, as they entertain with selections from the Great American Songbook and beyond. Admission is $35 for adults, $30 for members, and $25 for students.

The 2023 Cape May Music Festival will conclude resoundingly June 22 with a full orchestral performance by the Bay Atlantic Symphony at Cape May Convention Hall. This final performance, titled “Starry Stories,” will include two touchstone works by Mozart of tremendous depth, color and expression. Admission is $35 for adults, $25 for members, and $20 for students.

Concert tickets are available for purchase now. For more information, CLICK HERE to visit Cape May MAC’s website.

The Cape May Music Festival is presented by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) with major sponsorship from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, The Atkinson Foundation (David & Patricia Atkinson), Brown & Brown Insurance, Madison Resorts, and additional support from generous businesses, organizations and individuals.

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UPCOMING CRAFTS & COLLECTIBLES SHOWS IN 2023

• April Crafts & Collectibles: Saturday, April 22 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-4.

• Mother’s Day Weekend Crafts & Collectibles: Saturday, May 13 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-4.

• Spring Crafts & Collectibles: Saturday, May 20 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-4.

• Summer Crafts & Collectibles: Saturday, June 17 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-4.

• Family Fun Crafts Show at the Lighthouse: Wednesdays, July 5 through Aug. 30 at the Cape May Lighthouse 9-2.

• Christmas in July Crafts & Collectibles Show: Tuesday, July 25 at the Cape May Lighthouse, 9-2.

• National Lighthouse Day: Monday, Aug. 7 at the Cape May Lighthouse 9-2.

• Harvest Brew Festival: Saturday, Sept. 16 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-5.

• Victorian Weekend Crafts & Collectibles: Sunday, Oct. 8 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-4.

• Crafts & Collectibles by the Sea: Saturday, Oct. 14 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-4.

• Halloween Crafts & Collectibles: Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Emlen Physick Estate 10-3.

• Fall Crafts & Collectibles: Saturday, Nov. 4 at Cape May Convention Hall 10-4. $2

• Holiday Crafts & Collectibles: Friday & Saturday, Nov. 24 & 25 at Cape May Convention Hall 10-4. $2