VOLUME LIV, ISSUE 1
Newsletter www.capemaymac.org
WINTER 2024
Physick House gets major overhaul
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Insulated storm windows were installed this January in the Physick House Museum as part of the HVAC installation project.
Cape May’s Victorian House Museum, The 1879 Physick House, is undergoing a major overhaul to upgrade its fire suppression system, and its heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, thanks to government and private grants and matching fund donations. Planning for this project began in 2021. Since then, work has proceeded in two planning phases for HVAC and one planning phase for fire suppression. Among other work during this planning phase, fire blocking and a new fire door were installed in the Physick House basement. Recently completed renovations to the secondfloor bathroom added new exhaust for ventilation. The seaside City of Cape May is subject to wide swings of temperature and humidity throughout the year. Low humidity during the winter months results in cyclic excessive shrinkage movement followed by re-expansions within furnishings and architectural millwork. Humidity levels in the 30 percent range and lower are common. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 18)
HHHHHHHHHHHH PRESIDENTS DAY WEEKEND
Presidents Day Weekend Friday, Feb. 16-Monday, Feb. 19 is a cool time to visit Cape May. Parking is a breeze and there are tours through the weekend. Take your time and explore America’s First Seaside Resort on this brisk holiday weekend and imagine tipping your hat to Washington and Lincoln as you stroll through town. Here are the highlights! VISIT HERE for more information.
Cape May Lighthouse is Open!
Climb the 199 steps for a wintry panorama of the Delaware Bay. The 1859 Cape May Lighthouse is open daily during Presidents Day Weekend from noon to 3 p.m.
Crafts & Collectibles In Winter
On Saturday, Feb. 17 and Sunday, Feb.
18, the first Crafts & Collectibles Show of 2024 kicks off. Throughout the year, Crafts & Collectibles Shows present interesting wares from vendors and crafters in the Northeast. Come browse and shop during this winter show at Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $2.
Brunch & Bingo at the Inn of Cape May
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 buffet at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)
Photo courtesy of Center for Community Arts
Shown here, ca. 1955, waitresses and other workers had Sundays off and would often take time to enjoy the beach.
“Line in the Sand” at Carroll Gallery A new Carroll Gallery exhibit at the Emlen Physick Estate opened Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend and illustrates and explores the racially-segregated beach experience of Cape May and Atlantic City prior to the civil rights era. Cape May MAC, Center for Community Arts (CCA) and Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation present, “A Line in the Sand: Segregated Beaches in Cape May and Atlantic City,” open through March 25. Prior to the 1960s civil rights era, Black persons were limited to recreation on certain beaches because of the color of their skin. Beaches had been racially segregated at resorts like Cape May and (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8)
In This Issue Coming Attractions....................Page 3-4 From the Director...........................Page 5 Membership News ......................Page 6 Recent Happenings...................... Page 2 Thank You Department......Pages 13-17
RECENT HAPPENINGS Winter Wrap-Up We had just enough time between Victorian Weekend and Halloween Happenings programming and Holiday Preview Weekend to squeeze in not one but two Sherlock Holmes Weekends. “The Case of the Other Consulting Detective” by Jacklyn Fazio had our famous detective facing competition from interlopers from across the pond as well as from our enthusiastic guests. Sara Howe from Milford, CN was the lucky winner of $200 on the November 3 weekend and Trevor and Jennifer Williams of Frederick, MD took home the honors on the November 10 weekend. Cape May Winery hosted our Annual Meeting again this year. Having our members gathered gave us the opportunity to present the results of the Economic Impact Study we commissioned in conjunction with the Southern Shore Regional DMO and the Cape May County Department of Tourism, which shows just how important our tours and activities are to the region, generating nearly $200 million annually. We also presented our Honor Award, acknowledging those members of our community who have significantly helped us during the past year. This year’s award winners couldn’t have been more appropriate- Diane Wieland, Director of the County Department of Tourism, and Deborah Bass, who manages the Southern Shore Regional DMO. In addition to their help with the Economic Impact Study, Diane and Debbie have collaborated with Cape May MAC in hosting travel writers, assisted with promotion of our events
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Pictured here with CFO Charles Kealy and Director & CEO Jody Alessandrine is Michael Clark, Vice President and Business Development Officer for Sturdy Savings Bank, presenting the bank’s second 2023 sponsorship donation.
and allowed us to represent the DMO at Group Travel Shows. We also honored Brian Groetsch and Chris Clemans who are retiring from our Board of Trustees after nine years of service. To prepare for our Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, several things need to happen. Our maintenance staff and volunteers begin the preparation in October, with miles of extension cords and thousands of lights to set in place. David Barraclough, as-
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, Eliza Lotozo, Reilly Shanahan, 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 Page 2 • Winter 2024
Cape May MAC’s public history programs are funded in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission in the Department of State.
Cape May MAC
sisted by his mother Jean Barraclough, turns the Carroll Gallery into a Christmas wonderland, building a larger-than-life Christmas tree with a Dept. 56 Dickens Village beneath it. Curator Ben Ridings and Registrar Donna Szemcsak convene their Physick House decorating elves (see the list in the Thank You Department) just four days before the event, which is just enough time for them to work their magic. When our holiday visitors arrive, it’s showtime! The Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, Nov. 18 was seamless. The Atlantic Brass Band’s program of holiday music set the perfect tone, and Mayor Zack Mullock and representatives from Sturdy Savings Bank (which sponsors the event) welcomed Santa. His jolly self arrived just in time on a jolly red trolley and at the flip of a switch, the 60’ tree by the stage was ablaze with lights. It was the start of an incredibly busy time for us, with nearly 700 individual events on our calendar. One of the first of our special holiday events was the Holiday Crafts & Collectibles Show in Convention Hall. Organized by Director of Visitor Services and Special Events Janice Corkery, the two-day show gave visitors the opportunity to shop for the wares of some of the best vendors in the region. Next up for our shoppers was Museum (CONTINUED ON PAGE 18) www.capemaymac.org
Coming
ATTRACTIONS 609-884-5404 • www.capemaymac.org • 800-275-4278
Winter Trolley Tours
Take a brisk ride in our open-air trolleys during the late winter or early spring (the sun shines on winter days, too!) and you will see Cape May in a new light. Offered this time of year are Historic District Trolley Tours, Stories of Cape Island Trolley Tour, Mansions by the Sea Trolley Tour, Cape May’s Sports History Trolley Tour, Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour, Underground Railroad Trolley Tour, Children’s Trolley Ride, and Welcome to Cape May Trolley Tour.
Lunch & Learns and More About Music Learn more — in person or by Zoom!
Meet other curious learners and expand your knowledge for free during Cape May MAC Lunch & Learns and More About Music talks this winter — informative and illustrated presentations on popular topics of history, culture and the arts. Lunch & Learn programs are offered both live at the Cape May Lutheran Church Hall, 509 Pittsburgh Ave., and by Zoom. Bring lunch and no registration is needed if you plan to attend in person. If you wish to view the program via Zoom, please pre-register for individual programs by clicking on the links in the calendar at right. (When you register, a link to the Zoom meeting will be emailed to you.) Questions? Call 609-884-5404. Bring a beverage if you like! The hall is accessible and free parking is available.
Carroll Gallery Exhibit
“We All Scream for Ice Cream: A History of Summer’s Favorite Treat”
Opens April 12, 2024: At the beginning of the 1800s, ice cream was an elite and expensive dish in flavors like Parmigiano and asparagus. By the end of the 1800s, ice cream was adored by everyone in flavors like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry. Some of our favorite dishes, like the ice cream cone, the ice cream sundae and the banana boat are Victorian inventions. This exhibit celebrates summer’s favorite treat. See an authentic 1898 ice cream maker and other artifacts, and a reproduction Victorian ice cream wagon. Discover the diverse innovators and pioneers of American ice cream, and the development of the ice cream scoop and commercial ice cream freezer, including Augustus Jackson, Nancy Johnson, Bassetts of Philadelphia, and more. Free Admission.
LUNCH & LEARN: MAGNESITE: A WWII NECESSITY
Feb. 21 at 12pm: Harry Bellangy of the Greater Cape May Historical Society discusses the need for magnesite during World War II, how magnesite was manufactured, and the plant that opened in 1941 in the area we know today as Sunset Beach. CLICK HERE to register.
LUNCH & LEARN: A CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS π
March 6 at 12pm: People around the world are preparing for March 14. It’s Pi Day, an international day of mathematics! Join Donna Szemcsak for a fun exploration and celebration of this mysterious and irrational number. There will be pi jokes, pi music, pi art, and maybe even some pie! To register for the online Zoom, CLICK HERE to pre-register.
LUNCH & LEARN: IT’S MARCH! A TIME TO CELEBRATE IRISHNESS
March 20 at 12pm: Every March in the United States, revelers from coast to coast celebrate all things Irish by hoisting pints and cheering bagpipers, step dancers and marching bands parading through city streets. Where did the traditions begin, how did they spread across the ocean and why have we embraced them today? Find out by attending Lunch & Learn presented by Mary Stewart. To register for the online Zoom, CLICK HERE to pre-register.
BRUNCH & BINGO AT BELLA VIDA
Saturdays Feb. 24 & March 16 9am: 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 Bella Vida Garden Cafe. $25. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.
BRUNCH & BINGO AT THE INN OF CAPE MAY
Saturdays Feb. 17 & April 6 9am: 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. $25. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 4) www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC
Winter 2024 • Page 3
Coming
Presidents Day Weekend (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1)
ATTRACTIONS 609-884-5404 • www.capemaymac.org • 800-275-4278 (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3)
Cape May Beer Trail
March 16 at 10:45 am: New in 2024! Cape May County is home to a selection of fantastic breweries. Hop on Cape May MAC trolley for visits to Cape May Brewing Co., Behr Brewing, and Gusto Brewing Co., for tasting flights of local beers. Lunch is included at Cape Square Kitchen & Craft. This tour is for adults ages 21 and over. CLICK HERE for tickets.
Cape May Wine Trail
Feb. 17 at 10:45 am: Board the trolley at the Emlen Physick Estate and travel to the Bellevue Tavern in Cape May Court House for a delicious lunch. The trolley will then travel to Jessie Creek Winery for a tasting and souvenir glass, and to Natali Vineyards for an educational tasting tour. This event is for adults ages 21 and over. CLICK HERE for tickets.
Climb the lighthouse at nighttime!
Photo by Joseph Evangelista
Since it opened to the public in 1988, more than 2.5 million visitors have climbed to the top of the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse, but far fewer have climbed at nighttime. During the Lighthouse Full Moon Climb, follow the light of the moon up the 199 castiron spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse and see the night sky in its glory from the Watch Gallery, with a nighttime view nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. During Stairway to the Stars, without the moonlight, you really see the stars shine! Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse on evenings of the New Moon and the start of a new 29.5- day lunar cycle, when 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. Binoculars are permitted if securely worn around the neck. The lighthouse Full Moon Climb is offered 8-10 p.m. on April 23, May 23, June 21, July 21, Aug. 19, Sept. 17 and 7-9 p.m. on Oct. 17 and Nov. 15. Stairway to the Stars is offered 8-10 p.m. May 7, June 6, July 5, Aug. 2, Sept. 2, and 7-9 p.m. Oct. 2 and Nov. 1. $20 adult admission; $10 children (ages 3-12) Purchase tickets from the lighthouse keeper the evening of the event
Offered Saturday, Feb. 17 at 9 a.m. during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.
Cape May Wine Trail
Don’t miss the first Cape May Wine Trail of the year! Visit Cape May County wineries via trolley and sample the unique vintages of each on this all-day tour. Begin with a trolley ride from the Physick Estate to lunch at the Bellevue Tavern in Cape May Court House. Afterwards, the trolley brings you to Jessie Creek winery for a tasting and souvenir glass and then to Natali Vineyards for an educational tasting and tour. Tour limited to those 21 and over. Offered Saturday, Feb. 17 during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.
Presidents Day Weekend Tours Underground Railroad Trolley Tour
Cape May was part of the Underground Railroad, and this trolley tour tells of those dangerous days. Enslaved persons fled their captors in Maryland, Delaware and Virginia and braved strong currents and stormy seas, guided by the beacon at the Cape May Lighthouse. Hear how legendary anti-slavery fighter, Harriet Tubman, walked these streets, as did prominent railroad businessperson and former slave, Stephen Smith, whose railroad cars carried hundreds to freedom. Offered Monday, Feb. 19 at 11 a.m. during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.
Stories of Cape Island Trolley Tour
Many stories from Cape Island and the surrounding area’s economy are in whaling and farming, and while new industries have evolved since then, that heritage is celebrated today. Hear how whalers centuries ago eked out a dangerous but lucrative living near Town Bank and discover the area’s rich farming heritage. Learn about the Union Bethel community in 1831 in which Black residents thrived and the diverse community that continues to contribute to the vibrancy of island life today. Offered Saturday, Feb. 17 at 11 a.m. and (CONTINUED ON PAGE 6)
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Cape May MAC
www.capemaymac.org
FROM THE DIRECTOR It’s always interesting when people say something like, “I suppose this is your downtime,” usually after either the summer or holiday seasons. Truth is, and I’m not playing the role of martyr or looking for sympathy for me or our staff -- because I’d rather be busy and I knew what life at Cape May MAC would be like before applying for the job -- there really is no “downtime” at Cape May MAC! After each busy summer, we’re putting the finishing touches on planning the holiday season and this year also had two major grants to complete before the holidays. After the holidays, we’re finalizing our 2024 tour and event schedule (it was firmed up by January 9th), as well as finalizing budgets and both our winter and annual Carroll Gallery exhibits. Just around the corner are more major grants and reports due in early spring that we start writing as soon as the calendar flips. This past holiday season was extra-busy in that Thanksgiving was very early, leaving us 32 days between it and Christmas day. Cape May MAC had 699 tours and events on our public and private (group tours,
Jody Alessandrine, Director/CEO
trolley rentals) calendars from the Saturday before Thanksgiving, when we host our Holiday Preview Weekend, featuring the Christmas Tree Lighting at the Emlen Physick Estate, through New Year’s Day. To adequately staff so many things, we
Cape May MAC Board Election Results Ballots for the 2024 Board elections were mailed to Cape May MAC Members in November and returns tabulated by Membership Committee Chair Janet Coupland. Our Membership has elected the following Officers and Trustees to lead the organization in 2024: President: Tom Carroll 1st Vice President: Janet Coupland 2nd Vice President: Norris Clark 3rd Vice President: Lee Bellarmino Secretary: Jake Cuomo Treasurer: Mary Farber McKenney Trustees: Wendy Collins, Wanda Wise Evelyn and Rita Rothberg The newly elected Officers and Trustees join Tina Angstadt, Bob Gorgone, Bernie Haas, Ioanna Iliopulos, Jake Pashelinsky, and Steve Steger Jr., who are currently serving unexpired terms, and Jody Alessandrine, who serves ex officio as Director. Our thanks go to Brian Groetsch and Chris Clemans who have retired from the Board after nine years of service.
www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC
rely on our dedicated pool of volunteers, who are so appreciated. Total volunteer shifts in the six-plus weeks were 443. Further, many full-time and part-time staff members, including those at the director’s level, take additional shifts to cover. And it’s all-hands-on-deck for the three Candlelight Christmas House Tours, which fell on the first three Saturdays of December this year. Speaking of the Candlelight Christmas House Tours, this year, proceeds will help us match grant funding for the installation of both fire suppression and HVAC systems in the 1879 Physick House Museum. It is part of our stewardship to protect the structure (recently named “New Jersey’s Most Beautiful House” by Angi.com), the 6,000 objet d’art (artifacts) in the museum, as well as our nearly 20,000 guests annually and staff members. Most of the properties on tour are within walking distance, with just a couple outliers on each night’s tour Candlelight schedule. Despite the dearth of bed and breakfasts and inns (there were once about 80 in Cape May City and West Cape May, now there are less than 20), we were able to include as many as 20 properties on tour this year. Thus, the need for so many volunteers. This April we’ll again acknowledge the 150-200 volunteers that made 2023 and make each year here at Cape May MAC successful. Many of those volunteers are Board of Trustee members, and as noted, staff, who all work beyond performing their primary function, whenever required— from the Gardens of Cape May Tour and the Cape May Music Festival, to our summer Sunset Solo Series concerts and the Harvest Brew Festival on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate. Each holiday season we reflect on that for which we are grateful. Our Board of Trustees and senior staff are thankful for the dedication of all our staff and volunteers who enable us to offer locals and visitors more than 8,000 things to do each year. As our recent economic impact study revealed, these efforts infuse nearly $200 million into Cape May’s economy annually, positively affecting local businesses and everyone’s property values. Just as important, our programs at Cape May MAC enrich countless lives each year, and enhance the Cape May community as a whole. To help us meet our match for Physick House fire suppression and HVAC projects, please CLICK HERE.
Winter 2024 • Page 5
MEMBERSHIP NEWS
Welcome new members
Family/Grandparent: Rebecca &
Robert Kolas of Toms River, NJ; Rachel & Todd Holtzman of Washington, DC; Yong Zhu & Helene Nguyen of Hackettstown, NJ.
Joint: Megan Bergonzi & David Bentz of
Lebanon, PA; Nancy & Bill Brady of West Cape May, NJ; Lynne & Michael Brecker of Cape May Point, NJ; Bonnie & Terence Callaghan of Villas, NJ; Kathleen & Will Canum of Ocean City, NJ; Carol & Craig Connolly of Marlton, NJ; Melissa & Brent Dukin of Wharton, NJ; Louanne & Jeff Fox of Villas, NJ; Carole Harchar & Alyssa Harchar Stelle of Monroe Township, NJ; Barbara & Francis Hatch of Cape May, NJ; Deborah & David Herman of Princeton, NJ; Rosemarie & Thomas Scott Hill of Moorestown, NJ; Mary Jean & Alan Lush of Toms River, NJ; Court-
ney Leo & Neal Apgar of Cape May Point, NJ; Lisa & Matthew Mcclane of Lyndhurst, NJ; Kathleen & Phillip Mcfadden of Villas, NJ; Dolores Neill & Alan Wolfersburger of Villas, NJ; Karen Olsen & Robert Davidheiser of Lansdale, PA; Loriann & William Sharpe of New Castle, DE; Seane & Michael Siegfried of Turnersville, NJ; Debra & Ziggy Slusarz of Washington Township, NJ; Allison & Chris Voss of West Cape May, NJ; Mary & Paul Walchak of Philadelphia, PA.
Individual: Bernie Bittner of Haddon
Township, NJ; Roberta Carty of Havertown, PA; Georgia Combs of East Stroudsburg, PA; Greg D’amato of Cape May, NJ; Barbara Feeney of Villas, NJ; Michael Feeney of Villas, NJ; Pam Hagan of Villas, NJ; Joann Hamaid of Manchester, NJ; Pam Heagy of
Cape May, NJ; Diane & Kevin Keenoy of Egg Harbor Township, NJ; Maryellen Malloy of Mullica Hill, NJ; Victor Nawrocki of Winter Garden, FL; Jerry Paradise of Ivyland, PA; Regina Roth of Stone Harbor, NJ; Patti Schaefer of Petersburg, VA.
Our deepest condolences go to:
Sturdy VP Business Development Michael Clark, on the death of his father John Clark; Cape May MAC Director of Visitor Services & Special Events Janice Corkery, on the death of her brother Edward Ablett; Family and friends of former volunteer Dorsey Donnelly; Family and friends of former Trolley Driver and Guide Rob Reihl; Cape May MAC Trustee Steve Steger, on the death of his Grandmother Betty Steger.
Presidents Day Weekend (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4)
Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour
Sunday, Feb. 18 at 10:30 a.m. during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.
Historic District Trolley Tour
On this charming trolley tour, guides will explain Cape May’s fascinating history as the oldest seaside resort and how it has survived and thrives to this day. The trolley travels through portions of Cape May’s historic district and highlights Cape May’s Victorian architecture. Offered Saturday, Feb. 17 at 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 18 at 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m., and Monday, Feb. 19 at 1 p.m. and begins and ends at the Ocean Street Trolley Stop during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.
Combination Trolley/Physick Estate Tour
This immersive, two-hour tour experience combines a guided tour by trolley of Cape May’s Historic District with a guided tour of the Physick House Museum, providing an in-depth look into Cape May history and architecture. Learn why Cape May is Page 6 • Winter 2024
the only National Historic Landmark City in the nation as you appreciate the details of Cape May’s unique Victorian streetscapes via trolley. Take a guided tour of the first and second floors of the 1879 Physick House Museum, for a detailed look at Victorian architecture and the period. The tour includes a visit to the Carriage House Carroll Gallery Exhibit and begins and ends at the Ocean Street Trolley Stop. Offered Saturday, Feb. 17 at 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 18 at 11:45 a.m. and Monday, Feb. 19 at 1 p.m. during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE. Cape May MAC
What was that shadow? Was it the undead of Cape May’s past wandering their beloved haunts? You might scoff, you might shudder, but rest assured: on board a trolley with an experienced guide you will begin to wonder what’s beyond when you hear the tales of hauntings unearthed in Cape May by renowned psychic medium and author Craig McManus. Offered Feb. 16, 17 and 18 during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.
Emlen Physick Estate Tour
Take a guided tour of the first and second floors of the 1879 Physick House Museum, for an in-depth look at Victorian architecture and the period, reflecting one Victorian family’s lifestyle. Offered Saturday, Feb. 17 at 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:15 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 18 at 12:30 p.m. and 1:45 p.m., and Monday, Feb. 19 at 1:45 p.m. during Presidents Day Weekend. See more information and PURCHASE TICKETS HERE. -- SK www.capemaymac.org
Physick Estate part of new “digital twin” process The Physick House Museum is normally closed and quiet weekdays in January, but on Wednesday, Jan. 3 and Thursday, Jan. 4 it was bustling with activity. Cinematic Digital Experience CEO Allan Barmak and Chief Production Officer Jeff Gross were leading a small team of highly technical photographers to gather images needed to create “digital twins” of rooms in the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate through a process called photogrammetry. Digital twins are 3D replicas of spaces and places. Cinematic Digital Experience is helping lead the way into harnessing this technology in the filmmaking industry, in marketing, for historic preservation and for education. “Our goal when we started our company Cinematic Digital Experience was to leverage the latest technology to promote locations around the country,” said Barmak, “as we feel that the creation of digital twins is the most important technological advancement for documenting history since photographs.” Photogrammetry is the process of obtaining information including images, UV, textures, and relative distance for developers to create a photo-real and accurate digital twin. The concept of digital preservation of historic landmarks has many uses. The technology is helping digitally preserve artifacts and historic sites in war-torn Ukraine and has been used for archeological documentation. Museums are currently focused on digital preservation of artifacts and museum pieces. They’re taking 3D scans of artifacts and storing them digitally, Barmak said. The same technology can be used for entire rooms. The company just recently finished a similar project in Luray Caverns. “Once we capture the images and build the digital twins, we can enhance them with VR (virtual reality) experiences, virtual tours, etc.,” Barmak said. “Interactive, engaging environments are a great way to get students around the country involved and interested in history.” The digital twin, when complete, may be licensed to filmmakers as a digital film set where live actors interact. Hollywood is actively looking for virtual sets of actual locations, Barmak said. Hollywood studios www.capemaymac.org
outside of New Jersey that want to film at the home will be able to do so in photoperfect real time rendering with live actors on any Virtual Stage in the world. This means that visitors to the actual Emlen Physick Estate will now be touring a “living film set.” Even while visitors are on the premises, a film could be using a digital twin of the area
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Above, cameraperson Tony Ventouris captures images of Physick Estate rooms using special photographic equipment. The images will be used to create a 3D “digital twin” of the rooms. Right, Jeff Gross and Alan Barmak on the Physick Estate Sun Porch during production.
they are in at that very moment. “Cape May MAC receives regular requests to use our three historic sites for filming projects,” said Director of Media Relations Susan Krysiak. “The Emlen Physick Estate is most popular in this regard. In the last 10 years, we have received about the same number of requests from filmmakers. However, even with a filming policy and permit process in place, because of our 363-daya-year tour schedule, we rarely permit film requests due to the disruption they cause and have not had the opportunity to review a large-scale project.” Cape May MAC will be able to license the digital twin to filmmakers just like a filmCape May MAC
ing permit while avoiding the disruption of a film crew on site and earning revenue from license fees. Cape May MAC will make all decisions about use of the digital twin. “We have full control over the approval of all film projects and are the owner of the digital twin,” said Cape May MAC Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine. “We will evaluate potential film projects from filmmakers as we do now, carefully, and with guidance from our Filming and Photography policy. Our film and photography policy reflects and protects our core values and mission as a nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation and heritage tourism.” For exterior shooting, the team used both a drone pilot and a still photographer on the ground in tandem to capture every angle needed for the photogrammetry process to create the digital twin. The interior rooms were captured using still photography with special camera equipment and polarized lenses. “Our initiative of digitally preserving historic landmarks will make the Emlen Physick home the first estate in New Jersey to be archived virtually for generations to come,” Barmak said. Cape May MAC is thrilled to be an early adopter of this cutting-edge technology, Alessandrine said. “We see it as a new way to fulfill our mission of historic preservation, by preserving the physical space in the 1879 Physick House Museum in a valuable and unprecedented way. We also see great potential in the possibility of finding new ways of engaging our visitors with the museum. Additionally, we see a potential revenue source for our 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, from filmmakers who want to have the Physick House serve (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8)
Winter 2024 • Page 7
Line in the Sand (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) Atlantic City for decades through the 1950s, with boundaries that sometimes moved from season to season, but which were clear, even when they weren’t publicly advertised. The exhibit explores Cape May’s Grant Street Beach through historic photos provided by West Cape May families and original artwork by Cape May County artist Chanelle René, along with Chicken Bone Beach in Atlantic City through historic photos provided by the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation. Learn how people of color enjoyed their time at these segregated beaches on the Jersey Shore despite the harsh racial divide of the Jim Crow era. “We are grateful to our other nonprofit partners, CCA and the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation, for helping to bring this content together here at the Carroll Gallery,” said Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine. “It is important to illuminate this time and place in history.” Chanelle René’s Grant Street Beach series was inspired by her own family’s photos and experiences on the beach in Cape May. “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,” she said. The public is invited to the exhibit in the Carroll Gallery on the grounds of the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Admission is free. Exhibit is open Saturdays and Sundays
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Shown here, Artist Chanelle René is interviewed by WHYY reporter Peter Crimmins and photographer Emma Lee for a story about the exhibit that aired on NPR.
through Feb. 11, noon to 3 p.m.; Feb. 17, 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Monday, Feb. 19, noon to 3 p.m.; daily March 1-25, noon to 3 p.m.; and March 16 and 23,11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Center for Community Arts (CCA) is a multicultural education organization whose arts and humanities programs foster creativity, community building, and appreciation for the rich diversity of our world. centerforcommunityarts.org. The Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation, Inc. (CBB), is a non-profit organization formed and titled in homage to the historical segregation of African Americans on Atlantic
City’s world-famous beaches. Use of the beach was limited to the area surrounding Missouri Avenue. chickenbonebeach.org. Chanelle René is an award-winning, New Jersey contemporary figurative painter and mural artist. Her use of vibrant colors and painterly brushstrokes in oils and mixed media often celebrates the feminine figure to create narrative and engaging works, from original canvases to large-scale murals. Chanelle has exhibited nationally and internationally with works held in private and public collections. chanellerene.com. -- SK
Digital twin (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7) as a setting for their film projects. The beauty of this partnership with Cinematic Digital Experience is that Cape May MAC will no longer choose between granting a filming permit and interrupting the museum’s 320day tour schedule. We will have complete control to license the digital twin to projects of our choosing, as we do currently with our robust film and photography policy, which provides protection for the estate and complete control over the permitting of commercial filming projects.” CLICK HERE to see a quick video (less than 3 minutes) about the technology. Also, CLICK HERE to see a link to digital artifacts from the Smithsonian. The Future of Filmmaking: Cinematography in the Age of Photogrammetry -- SK Page 8 • Winter 2024
Photo by Alan Barmak
Shown here, Director of Media Relations Susan Krysiak, left, and Jeff Gross, right, watch as photographer Frank Weiss expertly maneuvers a drone camera circling above the Physick House.
Cape May MAC
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Bid for your favorites in Cape May MAC’s Online Auction Let the bidding begin! With over A two-night stay at Montreal Beach from The Whale’s Tale $20,000 worth of gifts and experiences— Resort Season Cape May Stage passes plus a generously donated by dozens of An antique cedar chest Cape May Magazine 2-year subscription organizations and individuals—the 2024 Cape May Day Spa gift certificate And much, much more! CLICK HERE for a complete list. Bidding closes Cape May Preservation Fund Online Cape May MAC Private Ghost Tour Auction is officially live. Gorgeous Beach-inspired jewelry Thursday, Feb. 29! -- SK During the month of February, Cape May MAC is auctioning off fun and unique items to raise money for our annual capital campaign supporting the Cape May Preservation Fund. Proceeds are already earmarked for continued restoration at the Emlen Physick Estate — the historic landmark whose preservation launched the founding of Cape May MAC over 54 years ago. We have secured grant funding to install much-needed HVAC and Fire Suppression systems within the Physick House Museum and continue to raise funds to match these grants. Every day we operate the museum without climate control systems puts over 6,000 Victorian-era artifacts at risk of deterioration. Of course, a fire without a fire suppression system installed could destroy these artifacts and the iconic Frank Furness-designed mansion that houses them. Thank you to our generous donors Photo courtesy of FiNS who have provided some fantastic items FiNS Sunday Social on Jan. 21 benefitted Cape May MAC. Special thanks to FiNS co-owner Jeff Gernitis, his partners and FiNS staff for their annual kind gesture. to bid on. Some bidding items include: www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC
Winter 2024 • Page 9
Cape May Music This year’s 35th annual Cape May Music Festival, presented by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) features 15 classical, chamber, jazz, indie-pop and brass band musical performances, some free to attend, from May 26-June 23. Evening concerts are scheduled this year on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Classical music lovers will welcome the return of the New York Chamber Ensemble performing two chamber concerts, the New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players performing one chamber concert and the Bay Atlantic Symphony performing one chamber concert, and a second concert featuring the full symphony at Cape May Convention Hall. New York-based BAILEN returns, bringing their stellar musicianship and power trio vocals and guitar to Cape May Convention Hall. The award-winning Atlantic Brass Band returns this year in a free outdoor concert during Memorial Day Weekend. Jazz lovers will enjoy a Jazz Brunch at the Inn of Cape May featuring Mary Lou Newnam and Ray Mallach; the return this year of the exciting Atlanta-based cellist-songwriter, looper, improviser and storyteller, Okorie “OkCello” Johnson; and the heartfelt George Mesterhazy Tribute Concert in the intimate setting of the Episcopal Church of the Advent. Capping off this year’s festival is the exciting new Cape May Cabaret with Erich Cawalla & the Uptown Band Orchestra, at Cape May Convention Hall. Also, in 2024, New York Chamber Ensemble Artistic Director Eliot Bailen will bring an original music education program into Cape May area schools as part of the festival. For more information about concerts, performers or venues, and to purchase tickets, CLICK HERE or call 609-884-5404. The 35th Annual Cape May Music Festival lineup is as follows: Page 10 • Winter 2024
Sunday, May 26: 7 p.m.
Atlantic Brass Band
Rotary Bandstand, 400-498 Lafayette St., Cape May, N.J. (Rain location: Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave.) Free admission. The award-winning, 35-piece Atlantic Brass Band, under the baton of Salvatore Scarpa, returns to Cape May with an exciting new program of rousing band music, the perfect high note for Memorial Day Weekend.
Saturday, June 1: 7 p.m.
OKCello
The Episcopal Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin Street, Cape May, N.J. $30 Adults, $25 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students Atlanta-based cellist-songwriter, looper, improviser and storyteller, Okorie “OkCello” Johnson returns after a triumphant Cape May debut in 2023. OKCello shares themes and expressions of the African Diaspora, his personal truths, a deep love and celebration of women, and a commitment to musical prayer, immersing his audiences in vivid stories as well as songs, creating a richly layered and transcendent experience.
Thursday, May 30: 7 p.m.
New York Chamber Ensemble
The Episcopal Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin Street, Cape May, N.J. $30 Adults, $25 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students Featuring Artistic Director Eliot Bailen, cello, and Susan Rothholz, flute, the New York Chamber Ensemble presents selections from the classical chamber music repertoire performed by accomplished New York musicians. Cape May MAC
Sunday, June 2: 7 p.m.
George Mesterhazy Tribute Concert: “A Time for Love”
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Festival 2024 The Episcopal Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin Street, Cape May, N.J. $35 Adults, $30 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students Artistic Director Barry Miles once again brings together musical friends and colleagues of the late jazz pianist George Mesterhazy for this intimate tribute. A Time for Love marks 12 years since George’s passing. This annual remembrance concert celebrates how much George meant to so many through original musical arrangements and meaningful songs.
Wednesdays, June 5, 12, 19: 12:30 p.m.
Bach’s Lunches
Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St., Cape May, N.J. $55 adults, $50 Cape May MAC members Lunch and a classical music mini concert combine for a wonderful afternoon at the historic Inn of Cape May. These intimate performances feature members of the Bay Atlantic Symphony.
Thursday, June 6: 7 p.m.
Bay Atlantic Symphony
The Episcopal Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin Street, Cape May, N.J. $35 Adults, $30 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students Sensual sounds, contemporary rhythms and harmonies from the Americas will fill
the air in a program that features a quartet of soloists for the Brazilian Suite Retratos (Portraits). Fabio Oliveira solos on the magical sounds of the marimba with a Brazilian Regional group that includes a 4-string Cavaquinho, a 9-string Guitar, the Brazilian Pandeiro frame-drum, as well as a 9-piece string ensemble. The mood goes sultry and sentimental with a work by Tango king Astor Piazzolla. An adored string orchestra favorite of great melodic sweep and beauty, Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, steals your heart away. Dvorak Serenade for Strings Astor Piazzola Oblivion Radames Gnattali Suite Retratos (Portraits) 1. Retrato de Pixinguinha (chore) 2. Retrato de Ernesto Nazareth (valsa) 3. Retrato de Anacleto de Medeiros (schottische) 4. Retrato de Chiquinha Gonzaga (corta-jaca)
Mary Lou Newnam on saxophone, clarinet and flute, and Ray Mallach on piano.
Thursday, June 13: 7 p.m.
New York Chamber Ensemble
The Episcopal Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin Street, Cape May, N.J. $30 Adults, $25 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students Featuring Artistic Director Eliot Bailen, cello, and Susan Rothholz, flute, the New York Chamber Ensemble presents selections from the classical chamber music repertoire performed by accomplished New York musicians.
Friday, June 14: 12:30 p.m.
Midday Music & More
Washington Inn, 801 Washington St., Cape May, N.J. $60 admission Enjoy an intimate classical music performance over lunch at the historic Washington Inn, presented by Friends of the Cape May Music Festival, featuring Eliot Bailen, Susan Rotholz and Jed Gaylin
Saturday, June 15: 7 p.m.
Sunday, June 9: 10 a.m.
Jazz Brunch at the Inn of Cape May
BAILEN
Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St., Cape May, N.J. $55 adults, $50 Cape May MAC members Savor a delicious jazz brunch at the historic Inn of Cape May that celebrates the music of The Great American Songbook and features
Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave., Cape May, N.J $35 Adults, $30 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students New York-based, indie-pop group BAILEN, (CONTINUED ON PAGE 12)
Where words fail, music speaks Hans Christian Andersen
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Cape May MAC
Winter 2024 • Page 11
Cape May Music Festival (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11) comprised of Julia Bailen on vocals and guitar, David Bailen on vocals and drums and Daniel Bailen on vocals and bass, returns to the festival this year, bringing their power trio of stellar musicianship and emotionallyricism to Cape May Convention Hall.
• Mendelssohn-Hebrides Overture Mendelssohn-Violin Concerto Qing Li, violin • Mendelssohn-Symphony No. 4, Italian
Don’t miss this exciting evening of outstanding big band music capped off with dinner and dancing! Erich Cawalla returns with his big band after a resounding Cape May debut in 2023.
Sunday, June 16: 7 p.m.
New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players
The Episcopal Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin St., Cape May, N.J. $30 Adults, $25 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players, Eric Wyrick and Brennan Sweet on violin, Brett Deubner on viola and Jonathan Spitz on cello, perform a diverse string quartet program featuring works by Florence Price, Beethoven, George Walker and Jessie Montgomery.
Sunday, June 23: 6 p.m.
Cape May Cabaret with Erich Cawalla & the Uptown Band Orchestra
Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave., Cape May, N.J $100 Admission (includes dinner & show)
The Cape May Music Festival is presented by Cape May MAC with major sponsorship from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, along with additional support from generous businesses, organizations and individuals.
Thursday, June 20: 7 p.m.
Bay Atlantic Symphony
Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave., Cape May, N.J $35 Adults, $30 Cape May MAC members and $15 Students Incisive rhythms, happy harmonies, musical musings and brilliant colors fill the air in a program that highlights Felix Mendelssohn’s most celebrated works. These iconic pieces, though, trace a vast universe of emotion and inspiration, even as they bear Mendelssohn’s stunningly distinctive imprint. Bay Atlantic Symphony and Cape May favorite violinist Qing Li returns in an impassioned take on the violin concerto. Page 12 • Winter 2024
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Jill and Lee Bellarmino present Director & CEO Jody Alessandrine with their annual contribution to the Cape May MAC Preservation Fund. The Bellarminos have been loyal donors to Cape May MAC for several years. Cape May MAC
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‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S ANNUAL APPEAL DONATIONS • $2,000 and up Donors: Lee & Jill Bellarmino, Warren & Janet Coupland, Thomas & Peg Curran, Sharon Kewish, Joan & Dane Wells. • $1,000-$1,999 Donors: Joan & Jack Dempsey, Russell & Lora Jo Dickhart, Ronald & Terry Diubaldi, Steven & Anne Docimo, Stan & Peggy Gora, David & Eunice King, Frank & Carol Kunkel, James Moffatt, Paul & Kathleen Ragan, Catherine Rein, Eleanor Roman, Marc & Lauren Shenfield, Paul & Karen Sherbine. • $500-$999 Donors: Daniel Barbera, Chris Bezaire (Coldwell Banker, Sol Needles Real Estate), Joe & Paul Bogle, Joseph & Eileen Cassidy, Tom & Peg Curran, Joseph & Elizabeth Garner, Roger Henry, Eileen Kirk, Nancy Lofredo, Carlos & Nancy Moreira, Stephen & Sandy Sheller. • $250-$499 Donors: Donna Benton, Jon & Daphne Fleck, Martyn & Grete Greenacre, Victor Keen & Jeanne Ruddy Keen, Janet Kerney, John & Ann Kosco, Charles & Ellen Mansueto, Henry & Carol Mauermeyer, Bill & Mina Parker, George & Carole Sick, Donald & Christiane Wiscott (Roseman’s Marina). • $100-$249 Donors: Jody & Cheryl Alessandrine, Charles Antinori, Thomas & Barbara Atherton, Laura Benevento, Daniel Bosin, Dale Buralli & Joanne Bernardi, John & Lisa Boecker, Gerard & Phyllis Brew, Martin & Valerie Carlin, John & Geraldine Carroll, Paul & Margaret Comelin, Raymond & Maryann Czajkowski, Stephan & Paulette De la Veaux, Frank & Ellen DeRose, Rosalie DiBianca, Wister Dougherty, Christofer Dubois, Thomas & Elizabeth Dupree, Kenneth & Nancy Durkin, Charles Eck & Clare Sapienza-Eck, Kathleen Emerson, Patricia Everett, Robert & Kathleen Familetti, Fred & Rosemary Fellmeth, Kevin & Kelly Ferguson, William Flounders & Alice Wyland, Ron Frech, Joseph Freiert, William & Adrienne Gallagher, Peg Gillies, Debra Glessner, Robert & Rosemary Gorgone, Michel Gras (Chez Michel), Susan Greene, Robert & Gina Greenwood, Paul Grena, R. J. Scott Griffith, Alex & Mary Elizabeth Hager, Ted & Kim Heininger, William & Eva Elisabeth Hohman, Scott & Nancy Holland, Bob & Carole Irwin, Raymond & Cheryl Jablow, Sherry Kejzman, Jeanne Kelly, Kevin & Debby Kilkenny, Stephen & Linda Kimler, John & Nancy Klos, Bob & Jayne Lester, Alwww.capemaymac.org
phonse & Martha Maffeo, Joan Maguire, Marianist Family Retreat Center, Anthony Marino, Lynn Martenstein & Jorg Pawlik, Peter & Carol Mastrola, Glenn & Patricia Matis, Franco & Diane Meza, Arthur & Diana Miller, Wayne & Joyce Monsees, Eric Muck, Howard & Barbara Neilson, Nancy O’Hanlon, John & Jennifer Ochman, William Paladini, Matt & Christine Palmer, Lou & Aurora Paradise, Theodore & Virginia Passon, Scott & Deborah Pearson, Periwinkle Inn, Tom & Maria Quigg, Nancy Boyd Ray & Edward Crutchfield, Lisa Rebert, Susan Reilly, Linda Riccio, Annie Roberts, Christopher & Carol Saracco, Michael & Theresa Schmal, Thomas & Carolyn Schwartz, Navneet Sharma, Siracusa-Kaufmann Insurance Agency, George Smith, James & Brenda Sonzogni, Barbara Sorensen & Robert Tackett, Mary Swartz, Shawn & Kelly Taylor, Meg Terry, Russell & Bridget Tibbetts, Brian & Laura Tousignant, Christopher & Rosanne Traficante, Dan & Jane Valdes-Dapena, Joy Wadleigh & Richard Hudson, Allan & Janet Weierbach, Jack & Arlette Wright. • Under $100 Donors: Charles Adamson, Jim Allax, Clara Jane Amodei, Lou & Bernadette Barth, Bernard & Mary Bernacki, Nancy Benz, Stefanie & Bill Bodine, Nancy Burton, Carla Capizzi, Joseph & Marianne Catagnus, Cyndy Cesena & Robert Gerlough, Mark & Linda Clemente, William Conte & Ken Whitworth, Bruce & Robin Corini, Gary D’Atrio &
Nancy Tucker-D’Atrio, Joseph & Pamela Decato, Elizabeth Feeney, William & Margaret Flanagan, Lee & Carol Fredericks William & Anne George, Howard Gibb, Nancy Gibson, Trudi Hathaway, Donald & Margaret Helmstetter, Jean Hill, Elizabeth Hobdell, Scott & Nancy Holland, Julian & Kate Jiggins, Rick & Janet Koester, Deborah Kops, Harry & Lynda Leaming, Patricia Lee, Dante Liberti, Bruce Madden, Eugene & Maria Mancuso, Giuseppina Marinucci, Charles & Gail Markley, Frank & Jeanne Marie McCall, Martha McCormick, Elaine McDonnell, Robert McLaughlin, Tom & Ellen Measday, John & Patricia Meisenhalder, Kyle Anne Midkiff, Bill & Mary Anne Mistick, MaryAnn Mosso, John & Patricia Murray, Joe & Diane Nadolski, Gordon & Mary Ann Nienburg, Alyce Parker, Barbara Parker & Thomas Andaloro, Jeffrey Pierson, Anthony & Eileen Raguseo, Richard & Beatrice Reinacher, Richard Renza, Jean Richardson, Richard & Joan Rojek, Elaine Rottger, Joseph & Maria Sammartino, Peter & Joann Sanso, Jeanne Shelley, Deborah Stingis, Robert & Diane Suchowierski, Uri & Marlena Taenzer, Frank Thomson, Ed Unger & Dawn Gambino, Dennis Urffer, Robert & Jean Vander Vliet, Martha Waite, Frank Wilson, Sharon Wyatt, John & Joan Yetzer, Marvin & Lee Zektzer, Peggy & Ray Zemaitaitis, Edward & Cindy Zeuner, Thomas & Susan Zug. (CONTINUED ON PAGE16)
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Mary Stewart makes a presentation about the History of the Christmas Tree to a class at the Margaret Mace School in Wildwood on Dec. 22. Cape May MAC
Winter 2024 • Page 13
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S (CONTINUED FROM PAGE13) LESSONS OF HISTORY FUND DONATIONS • $1,000-$1,999 Donors: Joan & Jack Dempsey, Richard & Susan Foxx, Catherine Rein. • $500-$999 Donors: William & Tina Angstadt. • $250-$499 Donors: David & Barbara Schindler. PHYSICK HOUSE HVAC PROJECT DONORS • $2,000 and up Donors: Fins Bar & Grill (Jeff Gernitis), Jeannie & Jim Morris. • $1,000-$1,999 Donors: John & Jennifer Zambri.
• $500-$999 Donors: Craig & Gail Fitz. • $250-$499 Donors: Paul & Shivaun Celano. • $100-$249 Donors: Roy & Ruth Brader, Thomas & Elizabeth Dupree, Leigh & Carol Johnson, Linda & Maria Kastner, Peter & Kathy Manzetti, Benedict & Diane Martorana, Chris Stafford. • Under $100 Donors: Debra Bradley, Maria Cowan, Kevin & Alicia Kapp, Margaret Lonzetta, Carol Petters, Robert Stewart & Barbara Barnett-Stewart, Sanford & Mary Stewart. CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL DONORS Quartet Sponsor ($500 - $999): William & Tina Angstadt.
LESSONS OF HISTORY: The War Comes Home to America: U-boats off the Mid-Atlantic
Cape May MAC’s annual Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series brings renowned speakers to Cape May to offer illuminating insights within their respective fields. In this 12th year, Cape May MAC welcomes Dr. Craig L. Symonds to Cape May Convention Hall, Sunday, Oct. 13 at 5 p.m. to present “The War Comes Home to America: U-boats off the MidAtlantic.” German U-boats made the midAtlantic one of the most dangerous places on earth in the first few months of 1942. The carnage they inflicted was out of proportion to their numbers and ships went down all along the coast from New York to Florida. How the United States dealt with this menace is one of the great stories of naval and U.S. history. Dr. Symonds taught history at the U.S. Naval Academy for 30 years and has earned numerous awards for his teaching and research. He is the author of 17 books translated into six languages and holds the Naval Historical Foundation Dudley Knox medal for lifetime achievement and the Pritzker Military Museum and Library Pritzker Prize for Page 14 • Winter 2024
Musician’s Circle (Under $100): Cheryl Gulish.
DR. CRAIG L. SYMONDS
Lifetime Achievement in Military Writing. Tickets are limited. CLICK HERE for more information and to reserve your tickets. Cape May MAC
John &
MAJOR DONATIONS • David R. & Patricia D. Atkinson Foundation, for a $15,000 donation. • Philippa Campbell, for a $2,500 donation to the Physick Estate. • Exelon, for a $2,000 donation for the Light Up Cape May contest, co-sponsored with the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May. • Elizabeth Fey, for a donation of $500 to Operations. • Jay Kloosterboer and Barbara Zicari, for a $500 donation to Operations. • Becky Kriebel, for a $600 donation to Operations. • Jacob & Amanda Pashelinsky, for a $2,500 donation to Operations. • Sturdy Savings Bank, for a $2500 donation to the Physick Estate to assist with the HVAC. DONATIONS • Bob Bailey, for a $25 donation to operations. • Sally Brice-O’Hara, for a $100 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse. • Frank & Tracy Burns, for a $50 donation to Operations. • Lynne Cutler, for a $50 donation to Operations. • Maura Daddario, for a $20 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse in memory of Don Daddario. • Joseph & Mary Emanuelli, for a $90 donation. • Donna Fisher, for a $96 donation. • Daniel Gross, for a $50 donation to Operations. • John & Cheryl Gulish, for a $75 donation to Lunch & Learn. • Dennis Johnson, for a $250 donation to Operations. • Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, for a matching gift of $250 generated by Daniel Gross. • Marcie Karlins, for a $15 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse in honor of Stephen & Pamela Karlins. • Lisa Mcnamara, for a $50 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse in honor of Jessika’s 50th birthday. • Henry & Carol Mauermeyer, for a monthly gift of $25 to the Preservation Fund.
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‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S • Gerald Michalowski, for a $96 donation. • MaryAnn Mosso, for a $100 donation to the annual appeal in memory of US Navy Veteran Gus Mosso. • Anthony Noonan, for a $50 donation to the Preservation Fund in honor of Michelle Noonan. • Cathy Pagliuca, for a $10 donation to Operations. • Colette Perri, for a $100 donation to Operations. • Joseph Reilly, for a $25 donation in honor of Dory Coe. • Bruce & Jane Ryan, for a $200 donation to Operations. • Mallory Stetter (Mallory’s Eats), for a $80 donation to operations. • Mike & Debbie Stingis, for a $50 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse in memory of Andy Stingis. • Bennett Werner, for a $200 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse in memory of David Rutherford. • James & Marlo Vandegrift, for a $100 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse, and a $100 donation to the Cape May MAC Preservation Fund. Christmas Candlelight House Tour Property Owners who donated their cleaning fees back to Cape May MAC: The Abbey (Jacob & Amanda Pashelinsky), The Bedford Inn (Paula Murray), Cape May Stage (Roy Steinberg), Cape May United Methodist Church (Pastor HeyYoung Horton), William & Karen Kurtz, The Mason Cottage (Kim Gilbert), The Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast (Jamie Harvey). Ticket Buyers who added a donation when purchasing tickets: Noreen Allen, John Altadonna, Michael Amato, Maureen Anderson, Edward Andrescavage, Donna Antonowicz, Ashley Archambo, Francis Bagliani, Sean Bailey, Justine Barrett, Linda Bartsch, Thomas Basile, Holly Battiste, Janet Bennett, Nancy Benz, Margaret Bertulis, Bernie Bittner, Garett Blake, Rob Blaker, Sharon Boyer, Carol Braker, Mrs. Debra Broskoskie, Heather Brown, Susan Bruett, Donna Buono, Susan Burns, Mary Frances Bushong, George Butler, April Calise, Michele Camerota, Kathleen Canum, Robyn Carrone, Lisa Catena, Sandra Cavallo, Jon Caveman, Nancy Ciano, Paula Clark, Jennifer Cory, Christine Cosenza, Leslie Cosgrove, Kristen Coyne, Jeff Crompton, Joanie Croskey, Kathleen Cryan, Barbara Dale, Kyle Damico, Robert Davidheiser, Kim Davis, Susan Degeorge, Lisa Delaurentis, www.capemaymac.org
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Cape May County Travel & Tourism’s Director Diane Wieland and Marketing Director Debbie Bass are Cape May MAC Honor Awardees for 2023. Shown here, Wieland accepts the award from Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine during MAC’s Annual Meeting on Nov. 9.
Rhonda Dinapoli, Leonard Dipisa, Joseph Discienza, Mike Divito, Joseph Donnelly, Joanna Doran-Paley, Natalie Ducharme, Deborah Duffy, Genevieve Dwyer, Valerie Echavarria, Susan Esquer, Brian Falconer & Virgina Lamb Falconer Christina Fargo, Wendy Faries-loney, Thomas Felz, Lorin Ferrante, David Fielder, Eileen Fitzpatrick, Anthony Forte, Vincent Fracchiolla, Angelina Fricke, Kevin Gallucci, Christine Ganz, Camelia Ganea, Nicole Gannon, Mark Garcia, Sophia Garrahan, Scott Gauser, Lisa Gleason, Jill Gorman, Kathy Guerin, Megan Gutierrez, Patricia Hall, Pamela Hanrahan, Katie Hare, Maureen Harrison, Barbara Hatch, Dawn Held, Tyler Higgins, Elizabeth Hochreiter, Thomas Hrabal, John Hughes, Karen Hyatt, Kelly Jabour, Lara Jackson, Robert Jastrzebski, Kristin Johnston, Walter Jones, Christine Kang, Mr. Daniel Keating, Brad Kellmyer, Carrie Kening, Kathleen Killion, Tara Kirchner, Tracey Kontor, Renee Kopyta, Christa Koth, Elizabeth Krieg, Stephanie Kruse, Leroy Kucheruck, Angela Lafrance, Valerie Landell, Jeanine Leichtnam, Iwona Leja, Robert Lewandowski, Estrella Lirio, Donna Little, Janet Lucignano, Scott Macdonald, Joanne Madsen, Patricia Magee, Karen Majek, Jeffrey Marino, Robert Marootian, Bonnie Martin, Liliana Martire, Nora Maxwell, Daniel & Andrea McCabe, Mare Mccafferty,
James Mccrohan, Rob Mcdowell, Brian Mcgarrity, Doug Mcgough, Christina Mcgowan, Susan Mcgowan, Mary Mckeever, Adrienne Mckelvey, John Mckenna, Robert Mcmahon, Lisa Meola, Maureen Miles, Amy Miller, Ellen Mone, Mary Kay Montague, Erin Montellione, Adam Moser, Lauren Musarra, Carolyn Muzyka, Melissa Myers, Barbara Neilson, Jeffrey Nicholls, Diane Nordquist, Jessica Nyitray Tofil, Ann Marie Oconnell, Leakey Oduol, Terry Ohanlon, Dina Orr, Elizabeth Orsino, Audrey Papa, Robert Peacock, Maureen Pedersen, Amelia Piermani, Mary Planthaber, Marianne Plucienik, Caren Pohts, Dennis Polini, Nancy Rader, Carol Reduce, Christine Reinwald, Judith Rhoads, Shannon Rice, Victoria Rosenberg, Michael Rosenblum, Debra Ross, Joan Ross, Kathy Ross, Jeanne Santucci, Clare Sapienza-eck, Nancy Sceia, Theresa Schuck, Elizabeth Schurr, Sheila Schuck, Michelle Serrano-Adorno, Lynne Seborowski, Holly Shorey, Kathleen Sifer, Anthony Simeone, Jason Simons, Susan Smith, Deborah Snyder, Joyce Snyder, Brian Speziali, Lisa Stofko, Jean Streeter, Brenda Steffens, Larry Stelck, Jaime Sullivan, Richard Svrchek, Sandra Swope, Beatrice Sykes, Rachael Tenner, Nancy Thornton, Michele Tiedemann, Mary Tierney, Robin Tilton, Laura Todd, Christine Tomes, Nicole
Cape May MAC
(CONTINUED ON PAGE16) Winter 2024 • Page 15
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S (CONTINUED FROM PAGE15) Tomko, Liz Torres, Symme Trachtenberg, Mary Tramo, Seth Vaders, Stacey Vanhorn, Cristina Vendra, Jacquelyn Vent, Carol Verrone, Susannah Vetter, Ann Viscomi, Terry Walsh, Mary Elizabeth Ward, Donna Webb Higgins, Elfriede Weiss-Paquette, Andy Whitcomb, Carolyn Wildman, Kenneth Witek, Betsy Wolfe, Michael Wood, Randy Wood, Jim Yingst, Chrissy Yoder, Janice Young, Carol Zambelli. ASSISTANCE • Cape May Lutheran Church, for the use of the church hall for meetings and Lunch & Learn programs. • Cathy Baldacchini and Susan Krysiak, for assisting with the marketing table at the Fins Sunday Social. • Jean Barraclough, for assisting with the installation of the Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. • Jill Bellarmino, for her help in Cape May MAC’s Museum Division. • Center for Community Arts (David Mackenzie), for providing photos for “Line in the Sand: Segregated Beaches in Cape May and Atlantic City” exhibit in the Carroll Gallery.
• Chanelle René, for help in planning and hanging Cape May MAC’s winter exhibit. • Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation (Henrietta Shelton), for providing photos for “Line in the Sand: Segregated Beaches in Cape May and Atlantic City” exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. • Janet Coupland, for her help with the Cape May MAC archiving project. • Teri Hislop, for providing a Lunch & Learn program on the Lenni Lenape. • Mal & Dottie Knapp, for presenting a program on Gilbert & Sullivan for the Blind Center of the Jersey Cape and again for Lunch & Learn. • Kathy Morais, for help with brochure and poster distribution. • Lou Paradise, for providing a Lunch & Learn program on the 100th anniversary of the Cape May Kiwanis Club. VOLUNTEERS Brunch & Bingo at Inn of Cape May Volunteer: Sue Currie.
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Christmas Candlelight House Tour Participating Properties: 25 Ocean St. & 29 Ocean St. (Aaron Sackstein), 721 Franklin St. (Patricia Ternove), The Abbey (Jacob & Amanda Pashelinksy), The Angel of the Sea (Theresa Stanton), Bedford Inn (Paula Murray), Buttonwood Manor (Lauren Cavallo & Ross Hammer), Cape Island Baptist Church (Reverend Michael Goldade), Cape May Fire Station, Cape May United Methodist Church (Pastor HeyYoung Horton), Cape May Presbyterian Church (Pastor Nicole Wilkinson), Cape May Stage (Roy Steinberg), The Colonial House Museum (Harry Bellangy), The Dormer House (Bob Mullock), The Episcopal Church of the Advent (Rev. Alan Leonard), The Firefighter’s Hall History Museum, Franklin’s Key (Maria & Andrew Bonner), The Inn at the Park (Susan & Carl Spatacco), The Judson Bennett House (Anna & Mike Dedominicis), The Kiwanis Club of Cape May (Jack Killeen), The Kurtz Residence (Karen & Yogi Kurtz), The Mainstay (Esther & Peter Scalone), The Montreal Beach Resort (Dan Alecia), The Mason Cottage (Kimberly Gilbert), Our Lady Star of the Sea Church (Rev. John Dolan), The Queen Victoria (Jamie Harvey), The Wilbraham Mansion (Doug Carnes). Christmas Candlelight House Tours Volunteers: Janice Ablett, Cheryl & Jody Alessandrine, Pixie Angelo, Tina Angstadt, Cathy Baldacchini, Lorraine & Pete Baldwin, Jean Barraclough, Mel Bateman, Nancy Battagliese, Fred Bianco, Bill Brown, Patricia Brown, Mary Burke, Janice Corkery, Janet Coupland, Barbara Cummings, William & Sue Currie, Jim Del Grosso, Jane Donnelly, Lori Dribbon, Chris DuBois, Jane Foran, Christina & George Fore, Mary Fox, Hope Gaines, Kathy Genzoli, Trudy Gilfillian, Lynne Glasser, Peggy Gora, Roe Gorgone, Pam Hagan, Kurt Hague, Karen & Kevin Hammeran, Victoria Heimall, Richard Hudson, Amber Irons, Kimberley & William Ivins, Kathleen Janits, Megan Kately, Charles Kealy, William King, Susan Krysiak, Gloria Kucher, Kimberley Lauton, Anna Leeper, Parker Lengle, Nora Macaluso, Debbie & Joe Mammarella, Richard Mayer, Vicki McBride, Jennie McCaney, Diane Meza, Franco Meza, Kathy Morais, Melissa Motz, Tricia Nolfi, Elaine Ottaviano, Therese Porzio-Kwiecinski, Julianna Richardson, Frank Scott, Mary Stewart, Donna Szemcsak, Carole Ulmer, Joy Wadleigh, Susan Wiggins, Lisa Xavier, Jim Yingst.
Shown here Cape May MAC Guide Rosalee Gallagher gives a presentation on the History of the Christmas Tree Nov. 28 to a group tour over dinner at the Lobster House Restaurant. Page 16 • Winter 2024
Cape May MAC
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‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Volunteers: Bill Angstadt, Tina Angstadt, Cathy Baldacchini, Jean Barraclough, Mel Bateman, Susan Bronzina, Mary Burke, Roe & Bob Gorgone, Carole & Robert Irwin, Dagmar Jelincic, Megan Kately, Anna Leeper, Ben Ridings. Crafts & Collectibles by the Sea Volunteers: Cathy Baldacchini, Mel Bateman, Carol Ulmer. DEAI Team Volunteers: Janet Coupland, Wanda Wise Evelyn, Quanette Vassar McNeal, Janis White. Exhibit Planning Team: Tom Chanelle René, Janet Coupland.
Carroll,
Fall Crafts & Collectibles Volunteers: Kimberly Ivans, Tricia Nolfi, Sue Wiggins. Halloween Crafts & Collectibles Volunteers: Ean Oerstle, Carole Sick, RuthAnne Stewart. Halloween Trick or Treating Volunteers: Ellen DeRose, Lori Dribbon, Lisa Mraw, Bev Parada, Gladys Richards. Holiday Inns Tour Participating Properties: 721 Franklin St. (Patricia Ternove), Bedford Inn (Paula Murray), Buttonwood Manor (Lauren Cavallo & Ross Hammer), Cape May Stage (Roy Steinberg), The Colonial House (Harry Bellangy), The Duke of Windsor (Clara Ziman), The Queen Victoria (Jamie Harvey). Holiday Inns Tour Volunteers: Joan Bauer, Susan Beal, Barbara Bonner, Carla Colson, Sue & William Currie, Jim Del Grosso, Chris DuBois, Jean Erickson, Susan Esposito, Donna Flegal, Kelly Gray, Jean Grazel, Scott Griffith, Alice Haber, Alexander & Mary Beth Hager, Victoria Heimall, Richard Hudson, Megan Kately, Anna Leeper, Eliza Lotozo, George Macaluso, Joe Mammarella, Peter Manzetti, Emma Jane Maurer, Richard Mayer, Diane Meza, Kathy Morais, Steven Olszewski, Elaine Ottaviano, Joan Ryan, Donna Szemcsak, Joy Wadleigh, Anne Walsh, Susan Wiggins, Deb Yamashita. Lamplighter Christmas Tour Participating Properties: 1023 Washington Street (Richard Hudson & Joy Wadleigh), 25 Ocean Street & 29 Ocean Street (Aaron Sackstein), Bedford Inn (Paula Murray), Buttonwood Manor (Lauren Cavallo & Ross Hammer), Casablanca (Andrew Bares & Kelly Lavorgna), The Cowww.capemaymac.org
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Nov. 26 was Museum Store Sunday and Director of Retail Operations Sharon Falkowski scheduled events to celebrate the day, including book signings. Shown here, author Mary Anne Castagnetta with husband Eddie welcomes visitors to the Carriage House Museum Shop. She signed her book, “I Love Cape May.”
lonial House (Harry Bellangy), The Dormer House (Bob Mullock), The Lovely Lorelei (Lori & Steve Lazan), The Queen Victoria (Jamie Harvey). Lamplighter Christmas Tour Volunteers: Carla Colson, William Currie, Jim Del Grosso, Chris DuBois, Jocelyn Duquette, Jane Foran, Hope Gaines, Lynne Glasser, Scott Griffith, Alice Haber, Karen & Kevin Hammeran, Parker Lengle, Peter Manzetti, Diane Meza, Kathy Morais, Therese Porzio-Kwiecinski, Julianna Richardson, Lillian Rozin, Joan Ryan, Carole Ulmer.
Yvonne Kuemmerle, Barbara Lamont, Christy Mobiles, Gerry Ridings, Harry Schmidt, Kathleen Sjoland. Physick Estate Grounds Crew Volunteers: Tom Carroll, Walt Gabriel, Roe & Robert Gorgone, Carol Lindsay, Steven Ward, Deb Yamashita. Trolley Maintenance Volunteers: Joe Mammarella, Mark Nathan, Deb Yamashita.
Lessons of History Team Volunteers: Tom Carroll, Vince Degiamo, Joan Dempsey, David King, Mary McKenney, Chris Traficante. Membership Mailing Volunteers: Kathy Genzoli, RuthAnne Stewart. Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit Volunteers: Mathew & Reese Barraclough, Roe & Bob Gorgone, Eunice Hudzik, Dagmar Jelincic, Sherlyn Rosado. Physick House Decorating Volunteers: Joyce Barth, Jill Bellarmino, Kathleen Familetti, Rosalie Gallagher, Kathy Genzoli, Peggy Gora, Carol Hartman, Ken Hornbeck, Cape May MAC
Winter 2024 • Page 17
Overhaul (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) Wall coverings likewise lose their ability to remain adhered to wall and ceiling surfaces. During the summer months humidity levels sometimes rise close to 100 percent during thunderstorms and when the wind is blowing off the bay to the west. In addition, to the expansion and contraction of historic materials the high levels of humidity provide conditions for destructive mold blooms in papers, fabrics, and floor coverings. The 1879 Emlen Physick House in Cape May houses a significant collection of period furnishings, window treatments, and period interior finishes— 6,000 objet d’art in total. The house interior exemplifies extensive wood millwork reflective of the original Frank Furness architecture and later Physick interior changes to reflect changing styles through 1890. Despite the importance of this historic fabric the house lacks control of the interior environment beyond basic heating during the winter months and window air conditioning units in the summer.
“Cape May MAC has long recognized this limitation and the damage from constantly changing temperature and humidity fluctuations is visibly evident in the building fabric and furnishings, exacerbated by the salt air here at the seaside,” said Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine. At least two previous efforts to develop responsible solutions to this situation failed due to the magnitude of the installation cost and visible intrusions. In 2021, MAC obtained NJHT funding to reconsider system options using newer equipment technology and space on the previously vacated third floor. The resulting Environmental Conditioning feasibility study completed by HMR Architects, and the engineering firm Bruce E. Brooks & Associates, outlined a new hybrid approach using a centrally controlled system of VRF heat pumps, the existing warm air system, and humidity stabilization equipment. This approach eliminated the need for extensive new ductwork installations and the associated cutting and patching of the historic building fabric.
“We are gratified and pleased that the project is coming to fruition,” said Alessandrine. “We are proceeding with a sound plan that will deliver a safe and efficient system to help make our tours more comfortable and safe for visitors and staff and help preserve the house for generations to come.” The capital phases of the HVAC and the fire suppression projects are now beginning. Work has already been completed this month to install historically and architecturally customized storm windows on all the 1879 mansion’s windows. Installation of mechanicals will begin soon. Both projects combined exceed $1million. Cape May MAC’s New Jersey Historic Trust grant is for five years for the HVAC portion to be completed. Grant match fund-raising efforts continue. Would you like to support this project specifically by donating to our matching fund? Every gift is needed and appreciated! CLICK HERE. -- SK
as holiday programming ended, the Carroll Gallery became a beehive of activity. The Old-fashioned Christmas exhibit was painstakingly dismantled, all those Dickens Villages houses and figures were packed in Styrofoam, into their protective boxes and then into plastic hampers (42 of them!) and safely stowed away until next year, along with several crates of ornaments and lights. The tree came down, bough by bough, and Mike Millison and his maintenance crew carefully dismantled the platform and readied the gallery for the next exhibit. This all happened in the space of three or four days. Once the gallery was clear, our exhibit designer Steven Olszewski began the installation of “Line in the Sand: Segregated Beaches in Cape May and Atlantic City.” With Hope Gaines as curator, we worked with both the Center for Community Arts (CCA) and Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation this year. The collaboration gave us access to rare historic photos from both beaches. The accompanying narrative was drawn largely from CCA’s book “Black Voices of Cape May.” This year we also worked with local artist Chanelle René who created several large colorful paintings for the exhibit, drawing from her own family’s photos. A well-attended opening was celebrated on Martin Luther King Day. This
is a “don’t-miss exhibit,” documenting how people of color enjoyed their time at these beaches, despite the harsh racial divide of Jim Crow. It’s open weekends through February and weekdays, too, starting March 1. We offered two Lunch & Learn programs in December: a fascinating history of Our Lady Star of the Sea Church presented by Mary Stewart. Founded as a mission parish in 1848, the “church on the Mall” celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2023. Next up was Brenda Leonard’s presentation on the modern Christmas Carol, that included 20th and 21st century works. We picked right up on Jan. 3, with a program on the Lenni Lenape nation provided by Teri Hislop, a member of the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania. Teri was followed on Jan. 17 by Lou Paradise who spoke of the Kiwanis Club of Cape May, celebrating its 100th year of service in 2024. Attendance both live and on Zoom has been strong and the schedule is set through the end of the year. We also visited the Avalon History Center in November with a program on the History of Thanksgiving and Margaret Mace School in December with a program on Victorian Christmas Traditions followed by a workshop to make ornaments. We also continued our monthly visits to the Blind Center of the Jersey Cape and Victorian Towers. -- MES
Recent Happenings (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) Store Sunday on Nov. 26, when we joined more than 2,100 museum stores worldwide to provide a special shopping experience. Local authors were in the Carriage House Shop and at the Lighthouse Museum Shop to autograph their books. Joanne Infante, whose handmade fabric ornaments are available in our shop, was on hand to demonstrate her work, and shoppers had the chance to win a $75 gift card. We had Christmas tours and activities every day and every night, save for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. There was truly something for everyone on the calendar. The most popular of our offerings was The Holiday Lights Trolley Ride, with nearly 6,200 riders in our six-week holiday season. This year was the 50th anniversary of our Christmas Candlelight House Tours and nearly 5,000 people agreed with us that this is the most festive tour to be had. Not to be ignored, our Cape May Lighthouse Keepers entertained more than 2,500 visitors during the holiday season. We can’t thank our partners in all these endeavors enough - the homeowners, the innkeepers, the restaurants and hotels, and the volunteers - without whom very little of this would be possible. There’s not much downtime between our Holiday and Winter exhibits. As soon Page 18 • Winter 2024
Cape May MAC
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