Concierge Magazine 2022 by Cape Resorts Group

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What’s Inside 2

Welcome Letter

Curtis Bashaw

O U R S TO R I E S

Read Us Online Please visit CapeResorts.com/ Magazine where you can read this magazine on your computer, smartphone or tablet Cover Design Jim Lennon Stories by Iraisa Ann Reilly Photography Jessica Orlowicz Emily Repici Laura Thistle Aleksey Moryakov Nita Gladovic Michael Walsh Charles Riter

The Lost Sister

Reflections on the Christian Admiral

Living the Dream

Celebrating 20 years since Congress Hall’s reopening

Dave the Gardener

Getting to know Dave “the Gardener” Chanudet

Summer Sounds

A Q&A with the musicians of Cape Resorts

Inside the Cocoon

All about the monarch butterfly

The Heroes of Summer

An interview with the Cape May Beach Patrol

War Relics

An exploration of Cape May’s WWII history

It Takes a Village

The cooperatives of Beach Plum Farm

T H E C A P E R E S O RT S C O L L E C T I O N 76

Our Hotels

Our family of hotels, cottages and inns

Food & Drink

The Cape Resorts Food Guide

Beach & Pool

Making a splash in Cape May

101

The Shops at Tommy’s Folly

103

West End Garage

Published annually by Cape Resorts

106

Sea Spa

Printed in the U.S.A.

107

Campus Activities

Welcome. Welcome to Cape May and Cape Resorts. Once again we are delighted and grateful that you have chosen to spend time in our collection of historic American resort properties. We understand that you have entrusted us with some of your most special moments and will do our best to make you feel cared for and at home. 2022 not only feels like a milestone season—it is a milestone season. Besides having old traditions return and recent restrictions recede, Cape Resorts is proud to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the reopening of Congress Hall. That ribbon cutting of June 7, 2002 feels like yesterday, standing with thousands of you on the majestic lawn. This issue of the Concierge Magazine reflects back on that journey. We are also thrilled to welcome The Pridwin to our family of hotels. Located on Shelter Island, New York, the 95 year old resort is being lovingly restored and will open this season.The Pridwin brings all the values we hold dear—a place spirit-filled with memory and tradition, a family gathering place for vacations and life-events and a resort filled with simple pleasures. Twenty years ago, when we announced the reopening of Congress Hall, we called it a ‘haven of relaxed elegance’. The Pridwin is all that and more. We are truly honored to partner with the Petry family in renovating this landmark that they have cared for since 1962. We invite you to take advantage of our concierge service to help you plan your time with us. And for those who are interested, you can now text with us to plan your evening from the comfort of your beach chair. Most of all, we invite you to relax and enjoy your stay. We’re glad you’re here. All the Best,

The Lost Sister O

nce, on the corner of Cape May’s Beach and Pittsburgh Avenues, there stood a grand hotel. In its time, it went by a few different names; first, the Hotel Cape May, then the Admiral Hotel, then the Christian Admiral. The Admiral meant many different things to many different people. For some, it was a lavish summer getaway. For others, it was a religious retreat. And yet for others, it was a monolith; an aging relic of a time gone by. But there is perhaps no one who knew the Admiral better than Cape Resorts’ founder and Managing Partner Curtis Bashaw, who, literally, grew up in its walls. The following pages were written in 1996 and published in the Cape May Star and Wave just after Curtis

and his investment group purchased the Christian Admiral and Congress Hall. Both properties had been part of a complicated bankruptcy. In order to save Congress Hall, Curtis and his group were obligated to demolish the Christian Admiral, unleashing the value of the underlying land to repay Cape May property taxes and other creditors in the bankruptcy. It was a gut-wrenching decision. This is the story of magical summers and a painful goodbye— one that enabled Congress Hall’s restoration and reopening 20 years ago.

Reminiscences of Growing Up in the Christian Admiral BY C U RTIS B AS HAW

It was 1963. The breeze was blowing steadily, as it always did at the Admiral. I’m in bed in room 508 listening to the ocean break against the seawall, thankful for the shaft of hallway light that blew in through the transom with the slightly damp air. I was awake, listening, a small child, safe but insignificant in that big building. The sound of the channel buoy could be heard in the darkness, proof that there were in fact dreadful things lurking in the night. I was waiting to hear the organ strains waft up from Gardner Hall signaling the closing hymn of the evening Bible conference meeting and my parents imminent return to room 507 next door.

Youth Sometimes, if I had trouble falling asleep, my parents would take me down to the huge verandah and we would sit rocking, listening to the waves, almost feeling the spray in the moist summer air. The air and that spot were intoxicating, and sleep was never long in coming. The sun woke us in the mornings—the large east facing open windows and screens sparkling with the dew left by the night breezes. Room 508 was connected to 509 by a small hallway and a shared bathroom. Most mornings I could hear my grandfather conducting his morning 7:30am radio broadcast from the

phone by his bed. He was a preacher and had purchased the Admiral to be a Bible conference and religious retreat center in 1962. It seemed strange at times, him sitting on his bedside in his light blue cotton PJ’s, a Bible and the daily papers strewn around, talking non-stop about “God and Country” for half an hour. “Folks, it’s Carl McIntire, broadcasting from the Christian Admiral in Cape May, New Jersey. My, what a sight the Atlantic Ocean is today...” I remember wondering if the people listening around the country could picture what I saw every morning. By 8:15 we were dressed for breakfast and by 9:30 we were having the usual negotiation over whether we had to go to the 10 a.m. conference meeting or could we “please go to the beach”? The collective pleading voices of myself, my sister Lynette and my two cousins, Norris and Gordon usually prevailed. After the beach, whenever we got there, we would go back to room 508, sneaking in the back door—because my mother always hated for the conference people to see us all bedraggled and sandy— and take those wonderful baths. The tubs were huge, extra long, and deep. They were made before the days of safety drains and could be filled to the very brim. Without showers, we bathed every afternoon after the beach, before dinner. 6

Summers And so, my summers developed a rhythm. I grew up in the Admiral with my grandparents, my mom, my aunts, and my cousins. Our fathers would come down on weekends. As I got older, I more or less had the run of the place, as long as I fulfilled my required duties. When I turned seven, I had to attend the “children’s meetings” held in the kids room across from the bowling alleys, and then by 11 or 12, it was the full-fledged Gardner Hall adult services. I still waited for those closing hymn organ strains, but now they meant I could get out of my marginally uncomfortable Gardner Hall chair and go to the snack shop for ice cream, another Bible Conference meeting having ended. Every summer there was a group of us, kids whose dads or moms for granddads worked at the conference as preachers, music directors, pianists, or musicians. On Sunday we’d play hide-and-go-seek. Because Sunday was “the day of rest” we were not allowed to go to the beach. The Admiral pool was, of course, closed. There was Sunday school at 9:30 and then church at 11 and then the Sunday smorgasbord at 12:30—a huge table set up in the Corinthian Room, laden with food, and a second table piled high with desserts. The line for this feast would extend all the way across the lobby. As impatient youngsters we would run around the lobby—squeezing behind the marble pillars or listening to the echo of our voices as we stood dead center under the lobby dome, heads craned back, talking to the sky. After eating we were supposed to take naps, to rest up for the afternoon concert at 4 p.m. and evening service at 7 p.m. Instead we would sneak out from 7

our rooms and meet in the old elevator room for our weekly hide-and-seek ritual. There were six or eight or 10 of us. We would huddle in that natural wind tunnel and make up rules for that week’s version of the game. The entire building was open territory. One round could take an hour or more. We would usually go in pairs because once nested into a hiding spot one could sit for quite some time before—if ever— being discovered.

Finding a Niche It was during hide-and-seek that, through the years, I discovered my favorite spots in the building. Between the top two floors there was a three-foot crawl space that we climbed into through a hatch door by the stairway. There was the infamous attic (only braved by the older kids) where pigeons, old hospital equipment, plaster molds and crates were stored, and the furnace room where we hide between and behind the three huge boilers. There was the cloak room off the lobby or the long “secret passageway” that connected the kitchen on the west with the private dining room on the east wing. Never in those dozen or so childhood years was there a lack of the most amazing hiding places. But there was also Mr. Bancroft and then Mr. Ide, the two dedicated, tireless managers, who invariably chased us down those Sunday afternoons. Mr. Bancroft seemed especially fierce the time he caught us hanging on the steam pipes behind the trellised façade and above the dropped ceiling across from the lower lobby elevator. He probably would not have caught us, but we couldn’t resist using the water pistols we’d earned with skee-ball tickets. Dining in the Corinthian Room was

another tradition – especially on Saturdays. My grandmother insisted that the family dine together promptly at six. After a long day at the beach, we scrambled to get to dinner on time, especially because we had to wear jackets and ties. How reluctant I was to put on my little shorts with bow tie and jacket which, as I got older, were replaced by long pants and regular ties. At some point a children’s dining room was opened. Perhaps the moms were tired of maintaining dress codes and dignity in the Corinthian Room. From then on, during the week, they shuttled us happily into the room with painted giraffes on the walls. There, young college girls tried to maintain order as we shot wads of paper and cold peas back and forth across the room.

Traditions As I got older, and one decade led to another, I realized what a wonderful tradition those Saturday dinners were. The Corinthian Room was majestic with the late afternoon sun streaming through the stained glass, the columns casting shadows over the more than 300 seats. The cooling ocean air streamed in as well, billowing the sheer curtains and table cloths, making the required jacket and tie tolerable. Often there were VIPs to entertain, US senators, foreign dignitaries, and the like, and my grandfather was always in his trademark white summer suit, greeting the other guests in the dining room. Our table was in the southwest corner of the room and the long march in from the lobby was always a lesson in diplomacy. As the grandchildren and family of Dr. McIntire we had to smile and shake hands and greet all the people my grandfather talked to as we walked by. It seemed that everybody 9

was watching us, and we didn’t need to be reminded that we were expected to be on our best behavior. But it was not all formalities. My grandmother’s living room was in room 510 and there we would unwind together and play Monopoly, Scrabble and Rook. I remember that the wool wall-to-wall carpet was slightly scratchy and that my grandmother would sit in the wing chair with her feet up on the little needlepoint stool making lists of things to do the next day. Eventually she would look at her little darlings and laugh and say “bless your heart” and shuffle us off to bed. It was 1975 when I moved out of 508 and up to the “boys” dorm on the south side of the top floor. There were more little cousins and siblings now to take my place in room 508. Besides, ever since I could remember I wanted to be a “big kid” and not a “little kid” and therefore I couldn’t wait until I could live in the dorm and actually have a job. I worked as a bus boy, a bellhop, a waiter, a dishwasher, a tour guide. I also had other duties – grandson duties that is – like leading the singing in the meetings and even preaching once in a while. I remember sitting in those top-floor windows watching the sun set across town. We were always told that it was the highest spot in Cape May County. Sometimes we would sneak out the hatch door in the kitchen of the top floor dining room and crawl out onto the flat roof that connected the two wings. There we would sit late at night and watch the lights of the city sparkle. You could see the harbor and Wildwood and the ocean and all of Cape May. The wind up there always seemed fierce, but if you lay down in the middle of the roof, it was much calmer. The view of the night-sky from the roof was spectacular. Then there were the late nights on 10

the town when we would miss the 11 p.m. curfew and have to sneak into the building. There was a fire escape ladder that went from the lobby porch to the porch roof. Across the roof was a door that opened into the fire tower, then a series of zigzagging ladders that connected the halls on each floor. Up we went, seven floors to the top, down the hall, past the dorm proctor and into bed. And so I passed my teen-age summers.

Changes But things began to change. It’s funny how innocence is lost, slowly eroded over time. I remember how specifically with the Admiral how, after a hiatus during college, I returned and came to know the building in a new way. My grandfather was getting older and many of his constituents has started to watch the “tele-evangelists”, TV having replaced radio as the medium of choice. It didn’t help that the Federal Communications Commission disliked some of his ideas and stripped the license from his Philadelphia radio outlet, an outrageously unfair thing in my opinion. And along came the building codes. First it was the transoms – those lovely glass windows above the doors that tilted into the room. They had to come out, replaced by pieces of metal. Then the doors had to have sheet metal tacked on the back, either that or be replaced by metal fire doors. Then the gorgeous stairwells had to be enclosed, the long corridors shortened, and the old fire towers enclosed. One thing let to another – code upon code – none of them unexplainable, but nevertheless closing up the place. And so the story becomes modern and more familiar. Slowly but surely the breeze was blowing out 11

of the Admiral. And that breeze was the spirit of the place. It started with the sea, sometimes floating, sometimes hurtling in the windows through the transoms, swishing around the halls, up and down the stairwells, rustlings curtains, causing doors to slam shut. The breeze carried the sounds – the organ strains, swimming pool splashings, bowling pin crashings, dishwasher drones and sermon tones. It carried the smells, the almost musty saltwater smell that was a backdrop to all other smells, the morning pastry baking, laundry air venting, Windex on glass, freshly cut grass, chlorine in the pool and carpet made of wool.

Good-byes The breeze stirred these sounds and smells and brought the ocean into the place, or the place onto the ocean – almost like an ocean liner. The Admiral lived with the breeze. When the breeze was shut out the place just seemed sad. It seemed to close in on itself and just wasn’t the same. The good smells became stagnant, the sounds became noise and childhood memories faded to adult responsibilities. Taxes, bills, repairs, and codes. Roofs failing, pipers bursting, sashes crumbling and plaster falling. What little money existed was just used to close the place up some more, build more fire walls, rip down the falling copper, try to keep up. But it wasn’t enough, and it was closed to guests in November, 1991, 28 seasons since I had first listened for those organ strains. Noble societal goals—fire safety, access for alternatively challenged citizens, environmental cleanliness—each had a cost. Who would dispute their wellintentionedness? Moreover, the creditors had waited now for years and Cape May needed its taxes. There were operating

realities, enormous expenses that just couldn’t be eliminated. Rehabilitation costs were in the tens of millions. It was really like coming to terms with a terminal illness. The Admiral was dying; time had passed it by. After accepting the inevitable everything became easier. Instead of trying to make that dear, tired edifice something it wasn’t, instead of telling it, “you must get better, you will get better”, we just embraced each other. And with that there was peace. And so, the Admiral gave itself up and as care-givers we took her apart over two months. One particular day last November several of us worked well into the night taking out the lobby dome, panel by panel, all 72, wrapping and labeling each. And as we worked, I noticed the breeze again coming in through the broken and missing windows stirring up dust around

the marble fragments. And it was cold. But it was also alive, like it used to be and I felt the spirit of the place again. I smelled its smells and heard its sounds. The Admiral wasn’t groaning, it was ready to go. The next day, all of us, Sandy, Erik, Phil, Greg and the most loyal crew of people imaginable, loaded the last truck, made the last sale and retired at sunset to the domeless rotunda where we stood around a make-shift campfire to give our Admiral a final salute. We felt the wind and were quiet. When we spoke, it was in broken sentences of a place we had all come to love, and we wept, and we smiled and we said good-bye and we knew that the Admiral would never leave us. And so, we delivered that beloved building the next day to the demolition team. And the breeze was blowing steadily, just as it had when I first came to that place.

Living the Dream 2

022 marks the 20th anniversary of Congress Hall’s June 7, 2002 reopening. It’s been 20 years since the construction crew tirelessly restored Congress Hall, 20 years since our first guests arrived. 20 years of celebrations—Fourth of July, Carnivals and the Tree Lighting. 20 years of revival and renaissance, 20 years of simple pleasures by the sea. For Cape Resorts Founder and Managing Partner Curtis Bashaw, the

renovation and reopening of Congress Hall is—quite literally—a dream come true. He was just 8 years old when his grandfather, the Reverend Carl McIntire, purchased the “Big House by the Sea” as part of his Cape May Bible Conference. Reverend McIntire had come to Cape May in 1962 because he wanted to save people’s souls. What wasn’t expected was that he would quickly become the savior of the town’s

Bottom Left The Reverend Carl McIntire on the Lawn of Congress Hall, c.1968

Pictured The original architectural rendering of Congress Hall’s 2002 renovation

Bottom Center An aerial photo of Congress Hall, c.1970

Victorian architecture. By purchasing some of Cape May’s most iconic Victorian properties, he in effect preserved these places during a time when other seaside destinations were tearing theirs down. In 1977, Curtis worked as a server in the Congress Hall dining room. Every evening, after the dining room closed and it was time to clean up, the team would play Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours on the old turntable. “When we finished setting tables and dancing around the room, all us kids would hang out together at the arcade, the promenade, around the hotel lawn or on the veranda,” Curtis reflects. “I remember one night in particular, coming back from the arcade. There was a full summer moon that caught the columns of the old hotel, and it was beautiful. It was then that I decided to fix up Congress

Hall one day.” And so, the dream was born. But there was a long road ahead. Throughout the 70s and 80s, Congress Hall lurched along as safety codes became more stringent. In 1982, when Curtis was a junior in college, he received a call from his grandfather, who asked if he would consider managing the hotel. “Actually, he never really asked,” Curtis says with a smile. “He just made his pitch as though there were no other options!” But Curtis didn’t need much convincing. Soon after, he arrived in Cape May with a small crew from Wheaton College, ready to take the reins. The ragtag team broke into groups to take on projects. One crew painted and planted flowers. Another opened the Bayberry Inn (now the Blue Pig Tavern.) It was a motley 14

bunch of friends and family, but everyone shared a common thread: a love for Congress Hall. “Those early years were challenging, but filled with camaraderie and youthful enthusiasm,” says Curtis. However, it soon dawned on him that youthful energy alone might not be enough to protect the hotel. Serious capital was needed to preserve a place like Congress Hall. Curtis began to think about the Virginia Hotel, a faded Victorian hotel turned boarding house where he had lived one summer, 10 years prior. Could renovating and reopening the Virginia serve as a stepping stone to the Congress Hall project? It was derelict and condemned, but it was also smaller and more manageable. Perhaps, if the Virginia was a success, Curtis could one day secure the financial backing to take on Congress Hall. His parents were supportive of his vision, and helped to acquire the 15

Virginia in 1986. The next few years were a blur: the Virginia started reconstruction in the fall of 1988 and reopened in June of 1989. Then, Congress Hall declared bankruptcy less than a month later. America was in the midst of the Savings and Loan crisis in 1989 and 1990. Congress Hall’s mortgage had matured and there was no one available to refinance the debt. “Looking back now on those years, I realize just how unlikely it was that Congress Hall survived. The deck is stacked against this kind of thing,” Curtis says. “The modern story of American resorts is generally the demise of the grand old hotel.” There were considerable challenges and a lot of dark days. On one hand, for example, there were preservationists who wanted every detail preserved at any cost; on the other, there were fire and building codes and inspectors whose lives would have been much easier if the

Top Left Curtis Bashaw, right, with friend (and future brother-in-law) Brandon Hull while they helped manage Congress Hall in the 1980s. Hull later managed the Virginia renovation

Above The controversy over Congress Hall’s restoration found its way into local newspapers week after week Right Blueprints of the 2002 renovation

building was demolished and rebuilt from scratch. “During this ongoing haze of hurdles, I continued to tour my friends through the rubble of the hotel,” says Curtis. “I’d say things like ‘this is going to be...’ ‘and this will be where...’ ‘people are going to love this part...’ Even they were somewhat incredulous and later confided they thought I was losing perspective.” In the mid-90s, Curtis was forced to make the emotional decision to

demolish the Christian Admiral and sell off its land in lots in order to eliminate most of Congress Hall’s bankruptcy debt. Thus, the Admiral became a sacrifice that would ultimately save Congress Hall from the wrecking ball. The months of work turned into years, and the team kept plugging away. But despite all odds, spirits remained high. Says Curtis, “A sense of humor can take you a long way”. 16

When the ribbon was cut on June 7, 2002, the energy was euphoric. The lights were on, glasses were clinking, and conversations buzzed from balconies, hallways, lounges and veranda. Standing on the lawn taking in the scene, Curtis realized how rich the journey had been. 25 years earlier, as a 17-year-old, he walked in the shadow of Congress Hall and a dream was born. He was filled with gratitude. “June 7, 2002 wasn’t an end, it was a beginning,” says Curtis. “Today, Congress Hall is in another golden age. From the Fourth of July fireworks to the Tree Lighting at Christmas, from Easter Egg Hunts to Clam Bakes, from thousands of arrivals and departures each year to spontaneous singalongs in the Brown Room, there

are so many memories made here each day”. One hundred years from now, perhaps people will recall the drama that surrounded Congress Hall’s restoration at the turn of the 21st century, just as we think back to Thomas Hughes, the founder of this place, and the people who derided his vision as “Tommy’s Folly”. Indeed, there have been many caretakers and visionaries that have graced these halls, from Thomas Hughes, to Annie Knight, to Carl McIntire, to Curtis and beyond. Each of them loved this place. It reeled them in with its grace and mystique. Walking around the veranda in the shadows of the colonnade on a summer night, it’s easy to understand why.

Bottom Spread Congress Hall on reopening day, June 7, 2002 Top Center Former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman gives an address at the June 2002 reopening ceremony, accompanied by Curtis Bashaw and the late Reverend Robert O. Davis Top Right A Congress Hall bathroom and guest room, as they looked for the 2002 reopening Middle Center Curtis Bashaw with then-Cape May Mayor Jerry Gaffney, Governor Christine Whitman and special projects manager Sandy Montano after financing had been secured for the Congress Hall renovation project Middle Center Curtis Bashaw welcomes Governor Christine Whitman to the Congress Hall Ballroom during the June 2001 reopening ceremony 18

The Colors of Congress Hall Throughout its storied past, Congress Hall has undergone many shifts in hue. From Annie Knight’s zebra-stipe carpet in the 1920s, to Charles Sandman and Gilbert Ramagosa’s penchant for color in the 1960s, to our most recent return to pink in the Ballroom, each era of

the hotel has its own distinct look! Below, we examine some of the most notable color changes thoughout the years. And while some choices were bolder than others—we can say with certainty that each was made with the Hall’s best interests at heart.

1958

1960

1962

The Yankee Doodle Lounge (now the Brown Room) is painted red

The Yankee Clipper Grille (now the Blue Pig Tavern) is updated with an eclectic theme

The Ballroom (then known as the Fife and Drum Dining Room) is painted gold

1994

2001

2022

The Ballroom is painted pink. In the mid-90s, the Ballroom served lunch and dinner, and provided retail space

The Ballroom is painted blue for the 2002 reopening

The Ballroom returns to pink

Dave the Gardener A

summer morning in Cape May is rather unique. The promise of a day full of activity hangs in the air. The smell of salt water and coffee mix, while early morning joggers pass each other on the promenade. It’s peaceful. The loudest sounds you may hear are bees buzzing around the bushes on Congress Place. Until the quiet of the early morning is broken by a friendly, distinct, familiar voice emerging from the bushes. “How ya doin’?” It’s the voice of Dave Chanudet, affectionately known by employees and visitors alike as “Dave the Gardener.” Dave has worked for Cape Resorts for over fifteen years, planting, cutting, trimming, pruning, watering, decorating, and making sure that each hotel and restaurant looks beautiful for guests each and every day. As his name would indicate, he is THE gardener. “There are people who come back year after year, every summer, and they are mesmerized by the plants. Every year they come back asking for advice about what to do with their plants at home. Greeting the guests… 23

that’s one of my favorite parts of the job.” So how did “the job” of Cape Resorts’ gardener end up being Dave’s role? “Oh my gosh, that goes back a long time!” he says. Dave Chanudet was born and raised in Pennsylvania, right outside of Philadelphia, but from the time he was born he had a close connection to the beach. His grandparents had a home in Sea Isle City where he spent every summer. As a kid, his family always had a garden in their backyard in Pennsylvania where he would work alongside his mother. “We grew tomatoes, peppers, and lettuce. We always had a vegetable garden.” Dave attended Temple University, where he graduated with a BS in Horticulture. Because of his desire to teach, he continued his post-grad studies at Temple. Dave began his professional career working at the Scott Arboretum at Swarthmore College, followed by a position at the arboretum at

Pictured Dave Chanudet—aka Dave the Gardener— picking zinnia flowers at Beach Plum Farm 24

Pictured One of Dave’s late summer flower hauls from Beach Plum Farm

Haverford College, where he stayed for six years. During this time of living in Pennsylvania, Dave took off for the beach on weekends. At the age of twenty-five he bought his own home in Avalon and would commute back and forth to enjoy the sand, sun, and salt water. “I’ve never not spent a summer at the Shore,” he says, with a great sense of pride. When an opportunity to work close to the beach came up, Dave became a year-round resident of Avalon, traveling each day to work as a gardener in Atlantic City. “I took care of the plants at the casinos—inside and outside. I was the troubleshooter; if there were any problems anywhere, that’s where I went!” And finally, fifteen years ago, Dave made his way down the Parkway to Cape May to work for Cape Resorts. A typical day in the life of Dave the Gardener requires some degree of cutting, trimming, pruning, and watering the plants inside and outside of the hotels and restaurants. The responsibilities change according to the season. On a typical day in June, for example, you’ll find Dave along the veranda at Congress Hall, taking care of the containers and flower beds. From there he’ll move to Perry and Congress Streets, where he waters and maintains the gaslight containers. Between April and October, he goes out to Beach Plum Farm twice a week to cut flowers for the hotels. Michael Collins maintains the plants at the farm, and Dave works with the team there to source zinnias, dahlias, and marigolds. 27

“Our specialty that we pick from the farm is the zinnias. We use them a lot in the urns and bowls displayed in the hotels.” What’s his favorite time at Cape Resorts? “It would have to be the Fourth of July. It’s like New Year’s Eve, your birthday, Christmas, and every holiday spectacular rolled into one!” On the Fourth of July, Dave is usually at Congress Hall early, keeping everything meticulously groomed and creating the sunflower arrangements for the Lobster Bake tables. “You have to make sure everything looks nice because company is coming.” Between the seasons, it’s Dave’s responsibility to change up the flowers, from pansies in the spring, to a variety of summer flowers, and mums in the fall. During the holidays, he spends countless hours adorning the hotel

interiors with beautiful greenery and decorations. Ever wonder who trims the tree in Congress Hall’s lobby or hangs the garland in the Blue Pig Tavern? Yup. It’s Dave, along with a team of employees working hard to make the holidays perfect for guests visiting at Christmas time. Around Thanksgiving you’ll find him high up on a ladder hanging ornaments and making sure the halls are decked. After the holidays, the preparation for the spring begins with the planting of bulbs in January, and the cycle starts all over again. So what are the gardener’s favorite plants? “The hydrangeas. We have brandnew hydrangeas on the walkway. We have quite a selection.” Guests have also noticed the beautiful hydrangeas at Congress

Hall and often ask Dave the secret to keeping them so beautiful. “You have to prune them properly so they bloom on old wood. People often over-prune, and then they don’t get blooms. You have to know the proper pruning procedures.” What other advice does Dave often give amateur gardeners? “Get on your bicycle and take pictures of what you like and try to re-do that in your yard. See if it works where you live.” So next time you hear the distinct, friendly voice calling out “How ya doin’?” from the hydrangeas, take a moment to say hello to Cape Resorts’ beloved Dave “the Gardener” Chanudet.

Summer Sounds T

here are sounds that will always be associated with Cape May. The sound of the ocean waves crashing along the shore. The sound of kids laughing, playing games on Congress Hall’s Grand Lawn. The foghorn from the ferry, announcing itself across the bay. Music, pouring out of restaurant windows, a sure sign that people are gathered, enjoying a good time together. Live music has been an integral part of Cape Resorts’ history since Congress Hall’s founding in 1816,

from John Philip Sousa’s performance at Congress Hall in 1882, to nightly music in the Brown Room today. Music is as important as the brick and mortar holding the buildings together, and the musicians themselves are an important part of our team, making memories and building traditions. We thought it would be fun to introduce you to the talented lineup of performers that grace the venues of Cape Resorts, so we asked them a few questions.

Above John Philip Sousa with the US Marine Corps Band at Congress Hall, 1882

How did you get your start? “When I was little, I would lay on the floor by my grandmother’s piano while she played,” said Tom Naglee Jr., a violinist who performs on the veranda at Congress Hall and at Beach Plum Farm. Tom was fascinated by his grandmother’s piano and his grandfather’s violin. “I would sneak into his study and get it out of the closet to look at it. He passed away in 1966 and left me his violin if I would learn to play it!” Tom went on to study Violin Performance and Piano Technology at Shenandoah Conservatory, eventually making his way back home to Cape May, where he performs solo and with other musicians. Geno White is also a Cape May native, who remembers playing guitar on Congress Hall’s veranda in the 1990s. Geno first got “the bug” to play from listening to his grandfather. “I wanted to play guitar after seeing

and hearing my grandfather play in his basement.” He also credits Jimi Hendrix as a big influence. For others, the instrument was not easily won. Billy D. Light, whose rock n’ roll trio has been playing in the Boiler Room for fifteen consecutive years, also inherited his musical talents (and instruments) from his grandfather. Billy’s grandfather, Al Boggs, was a professional guitar player with a rather extensive guitar collection. “Pop had just died and no one in the family played... I felt it was my duty to learn to play guitar.” Greg Jones, who has performed with the likes of Amos Lee, Richie Havens and Sixpence None the Richer, still credits Girlando Titone, his grandfather, as his greatest influence. “He was a Naval jazz trumpet player during World War II. We still have old records he performed on, entertaining for the USO, performing on Major Bose Radio Show out of Hoboken, NJ.” Today Greg performs at The Rusty Nail, in the Boiler Room and occasionally in the Brown Room. 30

And still other local performers found inspiration from the community itself. Local band the Bastard Sons of Captain Mey got their start in 2015 thanks to the year-round residents who have supported the trio throughout their lives. “All of us grew up listening to music and playing in garages and basements as kids. Cape May provides many outlets for musicians looking to be heard.”

What are some of your favorite memories as a performer? Camille Perulto was on American Idol in 2015, where she had the opportunity to work with Jennifer Lopez, Harry Connick Jr., Keith Urban and Adam Lambert (to drop a few impressive names). “It was something I always wanted to accomplish since I was very young, so being on the show felt very full-circle.” Throughout 31

her career, Camille has had magical Hollywood moments, but says that she gets just as much joy out of performing on summer nights at The Rusty Nail. “At my gigs, I experience people that love and appreciate what I do, and I know that my music has made a positive impact on their night.” Magical nights in Hollywood are among the favorite memories for

Top Left The Bastard Sons of Captain Mey take to the shore Middle Left Camille Perulto—a former contestant on American Idol

of my childhood musical heroes but doing so for a world leader.” Kenneth is a prolific performer who has graced the stages of Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall. He travels from New York to play piano at the Ebbitt Room.

Top Middle Kenneth Richardson, the Ebbitt Room’s talented resident pianist

Edgardo Cintron. In the early 2000s, he got a call to go on tour with The Funk Brothers, following the release of the documentary Standing in the Shadows of Motown, which follows the history of the legendary musicians. He played fifteen shows all over the country over the course of a month, his favorite one being in LA when all the executives from the film came to the concert. Today, Edgardo brings the music of Carlos Santana to the Boiler Room with Incaband. For Kenneth Richardson, one of his fondest memories comes from the world stage. His freshman year of college, former South African President Nelson Mandela went on a world tour to celebrate his release from prison. Ken was able to get tickets for his wife Lisa to see the political icon from the nosebleed seats at Yankee Stadium. The next day, he got a call that would change his perspective of the stage. “Stevie Wonder asked me to play with him as an opening act for the great South African President. When they say what a difference a day makes, that was a surreal moment! I was not only performing with one

What were some of your most memorable moments performing at Cape Resorts? For Darin McDonald, who’s been inspiring sing-alongs in the Brown Room since 2009, it was the memory of a snowstorm several years ago that has stayed with him. “We were snowed in, and everyone was stuck at the hotel without power for the weekend. They used a generator to power me up. Only candles were lit in the room, which made it even more intimate. It was like we were camping. Music took on a real meaning and there was a real sense of family.” A snowy night in the Brown Room is also a favorite memory for Don Evans, a guitarist, vocalist and recording engineer who’s had an incredible career playing with the likes of Billy Joel and Eric Burdon. “My first time in the Brown Room was a Christmas Eve in the midst of a snowstorm and there was a very warm, comfortable feeling in the room. It felt like a safe haven in the storm, with lots of Christmas spirit.” 32

But not every holiday is so warm and cozy. John Byrne’s first time playing St. Patrick’s Day in the Boiler Room was pretty much in keeping with Murphy’s Law. Not only is John a talented performer, originally hailing from Dublin, Ireland, but he sure has the Irish knack for storytelling. When asked what his favorite memory was, he painted a picture of a perfect night traveling from the Boiler Room to Perry Street and back again. “On this particular night we had a packed house, all singing along with us, when all of a sudden the fire alarm went off. The room was evacuated, and we grabbed our instruments for fear that they might be damaged. As we and the crowd waited on the street, I turned to the band and said, “Let’s start playing.” So, in the middle of the street, we launched into a tune and the next thing we knew the whole crowd was gathered around us again. A few minutes later we got the all clear to return to the Boiler Room and we literally led the crowd back into the venue second-line style, jumped back on stage and continued the same song to uproarious applause. It was an incredible moment.” Speaking of things not going according to plan…

Considering that the pandemic made live performance nearly impossible, what are ways you continued to work (or didn’t) during this time? This was a tough question to ask, but the answers proved what we knew all along. The musicians who share their work with Cape Resorts are not only incredibly talented, they are creative, gracious, resilient people. Dane Anthony has been performing since he was three years old when he appeared on the Steel Pier in Atlantic City for “Tony Grant’s Stars of Tomorrow.” He has made his living for decades with his group the Dane Anthony Band and starring in the stage show Shaboom. If you’ve seen the episode of Friends, The One With Monica And Chandler’s Wedding, then you’ve seen Dane Anthony perform. But when lockdown hit in March of 2020, Dane stayed away from the stage for fifteen months. Instead, he found a new partner to work with, his son Isaac, who now performs with him regularly. They made videos together and posted them to his website, where

Below John Byrne is a Boiler Room mainstay

you can still watch them. Dane says these performances kept him active and hold special significance for him. Many performed virtually, from makeshift studios in spare rooms, bedrooms, garages and closets. “At first I was doing it to make people feel better,” says Greg Jones, who streamed performances on Facebook from his basement. “But I quickly learned I needed to be doing it for my own sanity as well,” he admits. “We all learned that music is not only important, it’s essential. It holds a deeper value.” This sentiment was echoed by John Byrne, who has been a fulltime musician for almost fifteen years. “Playing virtual concerts saved me both financially and mentally. Having (music) pulled away like that was devastating. The support I found through virtual shows is something I will never forget.” Pete Devine is a guitarist, composer and music educator. He began playing on the veranda four years ago, filling in for a friend, and has continued to be a part of the Cape Resorts family of musicians. His first performance back in person was at Congress Hall, an experience he describes as “being

able to breathe again.” “During the lockdown there were no gigs, and it took commitment to stay musically active and inspired,” Pete admits. He describes the first night coming back in person as “a beautiful night” where everyone was so grateful to hear live music. Pete performed at Congress Hall and out at Beach Plum Farm when outdoor events opened back up. Beach Plum Farm also became a home for John Byrne. “I can’t begin to describe how great it felt to perform there.” “Things are still tough,” he adds. “My band and I have had to pivot and find other forms of revenue, but we are keeping our fingers and toes crossed that 2022 will be another step forward. In the meantime, we are grateful to be here, grateful for folks like Cape Resorts who maintained their commitment to live music at a time when others saw it, quite reasonably, as a luxury they could not commit to. We feel very lucky.” From the perspective of those of us who get to experience the work of these artists every day, we can honestly say, the feeling is mutual. 34

Inside the Cocoon I

t’s a chilly Saturday in October. The parking lot at Cape May Point State Park is full, and the area is bustling with activity: birders, bicyclers, hikers, picnickers. Right below them, nestled in the East Pavilion, a group begins to gather. All of these guests have one thing in common: they want to know more about monarch butterflies, the beautiful, mysterious creatures that pass through Cape May in droves between late August and early November. Two young women with butterflyembroidered baseball caps address dozens of monarch enthusiasts. They are from the Monarch Monitoring Project. Field Naturalist Intern Madison Hull and Seasonal Field Naturalist Kyra Manudich hold up graphs and pictures of orange-colored insects. They address a captive audience. “The mission of the Monarch Monitoring Project is to educate through public outreach,” Hull explains, as she begins a monologue about the life cycle of the monarch butterfly, and why they, like many 35

humans, find Cape May to be an idyllic resting place in the fall. Like all butterflies, monarchs begin as caterpillars, but even before that, as tiny eggs laid on leaves of milkweed plants. As many may have noticed while driving or biking down Sunset Boulevard to get to Cape May Point, swamp milkweed is abundant in Cape May. After a week, the egg hatches and a caterpillar emerges. “For two weeks, the caterpillar does nothing but eat milkweed and poop,” says Hull, looking to a group of children attempting to suppress their giggles. After two weeks of feasting on this delicacy, the caterpillar finds a secluded spot where it hangs in a J-shape. For about twenty hours, the caterpillar forms a chrysalis—a hard outer skin where it will undergo the process of metamorphosis. For another two weeks, within the chrysalis, the caterpillar uses all the energy from the milkweed to convert itself into a butterfly. When the time comes, the butterfly begins to break out of its chrysalis, but it’s not quite ready to fly. At first, its wings are shriveled

Right A monarch butterfly snacks on a zinnia at Beach Plum Farm.

up and its abdomen is swollen. For several hours, the butterfly pumps liquid from its abdomen into its wings. The wings expand and it continues to hang until the wings have dried. Once the wings are nice and strong, it flies off to find its first meal as a full-fledged butterfly. Usually that is some nectar from a beautiful flower or plant. In Cape May, a butterfly never has to go too far for good food. The monarch butterfly’s premetamorphosis meals serve an important purpose. Milkweed is full of glycoside toxins, which are not poisonous to butterflies, but they are poisonous for any living organism with a chambered heart. This includes animals like humans and birds. The toxins in milkweed make the monarch taste bitter. If a bird were to attempt to eat a monarch butterfly, they would spit it out. Usually. “Yesterday we saw

Pictured A monarch caterpillar munching on a leaf. This is a familiar sight along Cape May’s Sunset Boulevard, where Sawmp Milkweed is abundant. 37

a cuckoo eat six of them in forty-five minutes,” naturalist Kyra Manudich chimes in. According to Manudich, this is very rare. Even rarer was the fact that the cuckoo did not succumb to the toxins. “We’ll keep monitoring the area and see if it shows up again,” she says. The bird likely went elsewhere and was very ill, or in some rare case, it may have been fine. Manudich mentions that this phenomenon could give insight to changes in the environment, particularly changes in the toxicity of milkweed. After answering questions about metamorphosis, the women turn their attention to a bearded man standing nearby. He listens intently and clutches a small cooler. They introduce him. “This is Mark Garland, director of the Monarch Monitoring Project.” He begins a round of applause for

the presenters and summons other volunteers waiting nearby. They reach into the cooler and pull out small, translucent envelopes. “Gather around the closest table,” Garland instructs the crowd. At each picnic table a member of the project or a volunteer naturalist lays out a small ruler, a small notebook, a pen, stickers and two envelopes that move slightly. Inside are monarch butterflies, awaiting the tagging demonstration. “Through the envelopes they can still breathe,” explains volunteer Paige Cunningham. “If we put them in a cage or something like that, they would bang up against the sides and damage their wings. The envelopes don’t hurt them.” She writes down the date, time and location in the notebook, and passes the page of stickers around. On each sticker is written a combination of letters and numbers, and a website address: “mwtag.org.” Below that, the words “Monarch Watch.” “The letters and numbers are like their social security number. It’s how we identify the butterfly if someone finds them hundreds of miles away.” Cunningham carefully takes the butterfly out of the envelope and gingerly holds it by the wings. The butterfly opens up, and she points to the thin black lines. “This is how we know this is a male. The lines are thinner, plus these—” she indicates two dark spots on the lower wings. They are scent glands. “The male releases pheromones. It’s the male’s job to attract the female.” An older married couple look at

one another. She nudges him. He shrugs and they both smile. Cunningham measures the wings on the butterfly and marks it down. She takes note of the quality of the wings. “Good.” She gently squeezes the abdomen, explaining that she is trying to assess how “fat” he is. “I’ll give him a three out of five,” she says, marking it down in the notebook. Cunningham shows the group the different parts of the butterfly’s anatomy. First, the proboscis, a long straw-like part at the top of the head that expands out for the insect to suck water and juice from plants. Then, the legs. Each person holds out a hand as the butterfly clings tightly to their skin. Cunningham explains that this tight grip allows them to land on plants and flowers and keeps them from blowing away. Finally, it’s time to tag the butterfly. Cunningham spreads out the wings and scratches a bit of the wings with her fingernail. “What I’m doing is taking off the scales.” She wipes her hand on her jeans and orange appears. “The butterfly wing is actually clear, like a dragonfly. Can anyone guess why the scales are orange?” After a few wrong guesses (from the grown-ups) she explains the reason for the monarch’s bright color. “In nature, orange and red indicate to other animals that they are toxic. It’s to warn other animals, and to protect the butterfly from getting eaten.” She goes on to explain that the 38

Pictured Beach Plum Farm’s beautiful flower gardens attract thousands of monarch butterflies each year 40

scales also protect a butterfly from getting caught in things like spider’s webs. Scratching the scales does not hurt the butterfly. It would be akin to cutting hair off a human. Cunningham takes a sticker and places it on the cleared part of the butterfly’s wing. She presses it gently for several seconds. Now, it’s time to let the butterfly go. The group moves to a nearby clearing and a guest steps forward. Cunningham places the butterfly on their nose. It perches there for a second as people take pictures. The butterfly gently flies away, and the crowd claps. “Adios! Vaya con Dios,” director Mark Garland calls after the butterfly. “I always say goodbye in Spanish, since they’re headed to Mexico,” he explains. Last year marked the thirtieth season for the Monarch Monitoring Project. Since then, approximately one hundred butterflies tagged in Cape May have made their way to the same spot in El Rosario, Mexico. Monarch tagging has provided invaluable information about these migratory insects and their travel patterns and habits. Monarchs are a tropical species, and therefore, as temperatures get cooler, they go further south. This is why during September and October, you’ll find monarch butterflies fluttering through the fields at Beach Plum Farm, enjoying a drink from the flowers along Congress Hall’s veranda and even resting on the beach before they begin their journey across the Delaware Bay. Some of these butterflies have already traveled 41

from Canada, Maine and other parts of New England. Because of Cape May’s geographical location and its abundance of sustenance, it’s the ideal spot for a butterfly to stop, rest and fuel up to make its way across the bay. Besides tagging butterflies, the Monarch Monitoring project also counts them. Two to three times a day, between September and October, the naturalists will drive along a five-mile route at twenty miles per hour. The route passes through a variety of habitats including southern hardwood forest, agricultural field, brackish wetland meadow, suburban neighborhoods and coastal dunes

along the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. A count is kept with a clicker and recorded. The global monarch population has experienced a decline in the past thirty years. But unlike the rest of the United States, the monarch population has held steady in Cape May over the past thirty years, thanks to the biodiversity and to small farms like Beach Plum Farm, full of flowers for the butterflies to feed on. Butterfly gardens in Cape May and up and down the East Coast help to keep the butterfly population alive and healthy. Some may ask why it’s so important to preserve monarch

butterflies. In practical terms, they are an indicator species. Butterflies and bees feed off the same plants, and bees are important pollinators. When butterflies are struggling to survive because of pesticides or changes in farming, that’s a warning sign to humans that they need to make some changes. Small, sustainable farms like Beach Plum Farm are important to ensuring monarch butterflies and bees can continue to survive. Plus, walking around the farm and seeing all of the bright orange fluttering wings is truly a sight to behold. While monarch butterflies pass through on their way to warmer climates, visitors from all over come to Cape May to see them on their journey. There’s no question that they’re beautiful, and some may say there’s something about them that’s magical. In some cultures, the butterflies have a deeper spiritual significance: They are symbols of rebirth. In Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebrations, they are believed to be the souls of ancestors returning to earth to visit for one day. According to Mark Garland, “They are conspicuous insects. People come to Cape May just to see them, and they touch people’s hearts. I think there’s value to that.” The monarchs know more than any other species that the fall is a special time in Cape May. The days on the beach are still warm. The nights are crisp, and there’s plenty of delicious— and beautiful—food. It’s the perfect place to come and take a rest, whether you’re a monarch butterfly looking to cross the bay or a human coming to bask in their beauty. 42

The Heroes of Summer W

e bet you didn’t know this, but the walls at the Rusty Nail can, in fact, talk. If you don’t believe us, take a trip down there sometime and take a listen, or rather, a look. A picture is worth a thousand words, and the walls at the Nail are lined with pictures of those who’ve dubbed it their unofficial home: The men and women of the Cape May Beach Patrol (CMBP). That’s right, the Rusty Nail has long been known as “the spot” to grab a beer, a bite, and relax after a long day protecting visitors along Cape May’s 2.3 miles of beach. On the walls are photos of generations and generations of lifeguards. The CMBP has been in existence almost as long as the concept of a “lifeguard,” and it continues to serve the same purpose that it did over a hundred years ago: To keep those bathing in the waters off of Cape May safe. In the 19th century, swimming in the ocean became increasingly popular, and resorts started to emerge, especially along the New Jersey coastline. Places like Atlantic City and Cape May welcomed thousands 43

of visitors each year, and seaside cities soon realized that they needed to adopt measures by which to keep swimmers safe. First, there was the “lifeline,” which was a rope tied between a pole in the water and another one on shore. In 1845 in Cape May, these were known as “rescue ropes,” which were tied to bath houses. Swimmers could cling to the rope to bring themselves back to the sand. A problem was if the swimmers drifted too far from the line, it was nearly impossible to get back to it. Soon thereafter, whaleboats were stationed off the shore in the event that swimmers should find themselves in need of assistance. In 1865, private hotels hired crews to man surfboats during bathing hours. Rivalries, of course, developed between crews, and summer races were held to entertain and delight guests. And then, the “lifeguard” emerged. Atlantic City is believed to have the oldest continuously running beach patrol, founded in 1891. In 1911, the Cape May Beach Patrol was established. Paid, professional lifeguards were hired to protect

Below A lifeguard stand and lifeboat at Cape May’s Cove Beach

bathers under the direction of the first CMBP Captain, Tom Keenan. Since then, lifeguards in Cape May are individuals hired by the city, just like police and firefighters. From the beginning, Cape May has been ahead of the curve when it comes to water safety. A year after the founding of the CMBP, the National Lifesaving Service was created. In 1914, Wilbert E. Longfellow established the American Red Cross Lifesaving Corps, which “trained swimmers in lifesaving and resuscitation, and organized them to accept responsibility for

supervision of bathing activities in their communities.” In the Cape May Beach Patrol’s early days, they kept one registered nurse on staff. Today, all lifeguards receive extensive medical and safety training, and all Lieutenants are Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). And every single member of the Beach Patrol receives training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and use of the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) when they join the team. But even getting to that step is no easy task.

Pictured A lifeguard comes ashore after a training exercise at Cape May’s Poverty Beach.

Anyone over the age of sixteen can apply to become a lifeguard, but first they have to prove they have what it takes to do the job. Cape May’s current Lifeguard Chief, Harry Back, was a rookie in 1992 and took the same test that aspiring CMBP members take today. “It’s exactly the same,” according to Chief Back, whose mother Diane worked at Congress Hall for many years. So you want to be a lifeguard? First things first: can you swim? The test starts with a one-hundred yard swim in a pool that must be completed in a minute and twenty-five seconds or less. If you pass that test, you move on to the next round. A five-hundred meter swim in the ocean, followed by 45

a seventy-five meter straight-out swim that is timed. Next comes another timed event: a run into the surf, about chest deep, where you touch a rope and run back to shore. Tired yet? Good—there’s only one more physical test. A quarter mile run down the beach, a quick surfdash into the water, run back out onto the sand, and then run back a quarter mile down the beach. That test is scored by place. If you get through all of that, then you move into the final phase of the process. “That’s the most relevant part,” according to Chief Back. Candidates are brought in to be interviewed by the Lieutenants. “What you are really trying to do

there is gain some kind of feel for their character and their maturity level. Do they have what it takes to do the job we ask of them?” If the answer is yes, then the real work begins. New hires undergo a weeklong “Rookie School,” an onboarding process that is extensive and intense. “It’s a forty-hour week of training on CPR, AED, first aid, and then you get into the whole nuts and bolts of the organization. Some of it is physical. The rest of the time is spent on education, education, education.” According to Back, Rookie School not only covers the U.S. Lifesaving Guidelines, but also considers the conditions that are unique to Cape May.

“Every beach patrol runs rescues differently. Even if you’re a lifeguard coming from say… Ocean City. We make experienced guards coming from other towns go through Rookie School in order to learn our procedures and protocols and how we operate. Every town is going to be different all over the country, so we put in local training as well.” “You need to know what the tide conditions are that day. Is it incoming or outgoing tide? If you try to swim straight out to someone, you’re not going to get to them, and you’re not going to chase someone down in a current. That’s the biggest difference between Cape May and even somewhere as close as Wildwood 46

Crest. They’re not going to have that lateral current. Their currents are more in and out.” Chief Back says that this commitment to education has put the Cape May Beach Patrol on the map as one of the most highly regarded organizations in the country. While a lot has stayed the same since his rookie year, other things have changed for the better. “There’s been a lot of growth between where we were and where we are today.” One of those changes is gender diversity. When Chief Back first became a lifeguard thirty years ago, there were one or two women on the beach patrol each summer. Today, forty percent of the force is made up of women, and the first female Lieutenant, Sara Werner, was named last summer. But the biggest change that the Chief has witnessed is the growth in education and national recognition. “We’re always staying on top of what’s new in the first aid world and with the U.S. Lifesaving Association (USLA). We have better trained lifeguards than we ever did. It’s definitely become a more professional organization, and I credit former Chief Buzz Mogck. He took the CMBP and put it on the map in the United States.” Harry “Buzz” Mogck retired from the CMBP in 2020, after serving as Captain and then Chief for forty years. (Captain was the highest distinction until 2017, when Chief was added by the city.) During his tenure, Mogck is credited with launching multiple safety initiatives, such as requiring 47

EMT training for all Lieutenants and first aid and CPR training for all members, creating an after-hours rescue program, and introducing new rescue techniques like paddle boards and rescue cans, as well as surf chairs for visitors with limited mobility. In that time, Cape May played host to the USLA Lifeguard National Championships six times, and more competitions between local Beach Patrols began. Back considers himself lucky to have learned so much from Chief Mogck, and to have been a part of the change. His own daughter is now fifteen and is “chomping at the bit,” as he puts it, to become a lifeguard after going through a Junior Lifeguard program. The CMBP is in fact, a family affair for the Chief. He met his wife, Patrice, during her rookie year. She was a swimmer from the University of Delaware, who wasn’t allowed to take the test until she graduated from college. As soon as she did, she went to Cape May with a few friends from the swim team and the rest is history. Their wedding reception was, of course, at the Rusty Nail. “The Rusty Nail was the place to go since … forever. It was owned by the Hober family before, and they were really good to us. They respected what we did, they valued what the Beach Patrol meant to Cape May, and they went out of their way to make us feel comfortable and part of their family. Cape Resorts and Curtis have really gone out of their way to keep that. It still has that feeling. It’s still the lifeguard place to go.” But before they can kick back and relax with a beer at the bar, lifeguards

spend the day, well, saving lives. It all begins at the crack of dawn with a workout, lifting weights, running, a swim in surf, and a row through the waves in a lifeguard boat. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., they’re watching the water from twenty-six lifeguard stands along the beach. About ten stands were added in the past thirty years, in response to the beach itself changing from beach replenishment, which began in 1990. On any given day, from fifty-five to sixty lifeguards are on duty, with ninety-six staffed for the summer. It’s a seasonal job, so during the rest of the year lifeguards have a variety of occupations. For many years, Back and his wife were professors in the Wellness Studies Department at Binghamton

University in Binghamton, New York. Although his wife continues to teach, Chief Back now runs his own business in Cape May. To say that he “runs” it is the only way to describe his work, because he is the founder and proprietor of the Cape May Running Company. The Company has a retail store on Beach Avenue, and also organizes local charity races and events. Other lifeguards’ off-season jobs run the gamut—everything from schoolteachers to waiters, biologists to filmmakers. Back has observed that many men and women choose their off-season jobs for the flexibility they provide to return to the Beach Patrol in the summer. “It’s an easy job to fall in love with,” he says with a smile. Last summer, between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Cape May Beach Patrol performed around three hundred and seventy-five saves. “We are a 100 percent preventative beach patrol. We try to prevent those rescues from happening,” says the Chief. “But it’s the ocean.” Anything can happen, and when it does, the CMBP is there, prepared to snap into action. Besides saving lives, the local lifeguards pride themselves on being approachable to guests of Cape May. “People always want to know where to have a good dinner or a good meal. Who are you going to ask? A lifeguard would be sure to know.” And where does Chief Back send them? “For me, the Rusty Nail always has a lot of fond memories,” he admits. “You look at the walls and see the pictures and think, ‘aw that young 48

man or that young woman was a junior lifeguard and now they’re on the patrol.’ I just think that’s neat. To have that history on the wall. It’s nostalgic and special to me.” Like many visitors to Cape May, it’s more than just a building with four walls. “It was a big part of my young adulthood, to my marriage, and continuing from there. You don’t have a lot of places in life like that where you walk in and feel like—‘ah, I’m home.’”

Special thanks to Chief Harry Back and historian Ben Miller for their expertise and input to this article. In memory of Norman V. Inferrera III

War Relics I

t may come as no surprise, but in Cape May, history is all around you. No matter where you look— north, south, east, west, up, down and all around, you’ll find some historical artifact, relic, or site. While Cape May is best known for its Victorian gingerbread houses and hotels that served sitting presidents in the 19th century, did you know that the city also played a major role keeping the rest of the country safe during

the Second World War? You can go anywhere on the island and not even realize the history that lies beneath the surface. (Even the fact that Cape May is an island has to do with World War II.) From the moment you get off the Parkway, the effects of this time period are both visible and hidden. Whether you’re driving around town, biking to Cape May Point, or taking a walk along the beach, here are Cape May’s World War II relics unveiled.

Below German U-Boats

Above Postcard of the Cape May U.S. Naval Air Station and Airplane Hanger, dated c. 1930-1945 Right Fire Control Tower No. 23—also known as the Cape May World War II Lookout Tower

The Canal Did you go over a bridge to get here? If you did not arrive by boat, then the answer is probably yes. If you arrived via the Garden State Parkway/Route 109 (into Cape May City) or Route 162 (from the mainland to West Cape May), then you most certainly passed over the Cape May Canal. It may be hard to imagine, but before 1942, Cape May was a full-fledged peninsula. During World War I, there was discussion of dredging the area to connect the Delaware Bay to Cape May’s harbor. When the war ended, the plans were abandoned. The idea was revisited in 1935 to increase commercial trade, but it wasn’t until 1940 that the matter was brought before the U.S. Senate by New Jersey State Senator William Barbour. At that time, the U.S. Navy had a vested interest in dredging the area. The project became a part of the Rivers and Harbors Bill that passed both 52

houses and was eventually vetoed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. But in April of 1941, the canal was approved, as it was considered essential to defense. So why did Uncle Sam have a change of heart? While the attack on Pearl Harbor wouldn’t happen until later that year, American involvement in the Second World War was becoming increasingly inevitable. A new coastal artillery battery at Cape Henlopen, Delaware, and the development of a naval air station in Cape May made quicker access between the two points essential. Travel around the peninsula would have been risky, and before the canal could be completed, the risk became real with the sinking of the USS Jacob Jones. 53

USS Jacob Jones Unless you are into deep-sea diving twenty miles off the coast of Cape May, this is not a World War II relic that you’ll be able to visit. If you are, though, the shipwreck of the USS Jacob Jones may be of interest to you (although, admittedly, there’s not much left to find). On the morning of February 27, 1942, the USS Jacob Jones, a 1,211ton Wickes-class destroyer, departed New York with orders to patrol the area between Barnegat, New Jersey and Five Fathom Bank (a station for light vessels). German U-boats had torpedoed a tanker and the Jacob Jones was in search of survivors when they were given orders to focus on the waters around Cape May.

Above A declassified military map of the Cape May Military Reserve during World War II. Positioned at the mouth of the Delaware River, Cape May MR supported Delaware’s Fort Miles by providing rapid fire protection from fast moving subs and U-boats. Opposite Top The USS Jacob Jones. Opposite Right Path leading to the Cape May World War II Lookout Tower.

At dawn on February 28, 1942, an undetected German submarine fired torpedoes at the destroyer. The first torpedo struck the ship’s magazine and caused “unbelievable damage.” A second torpedo would cause the ship to sink within forty-five minutes. Later that morning, twelve survivors were spotted in lifeboats by an Army observation plane. By the time they arrived on land in Cape May, there were eleven survivors. When the war ended, German U-boat U-858 was forced to surrender off Cape May on May 10, 1945, at the very same spot where the Jacob Jones was attacked. By December 1942, there was a canal where there once was none. The jetties that exist around the cape were put there for the purposes of creating the canal. Now that you’ve gone over the canal and you’re in town, hop on a bike and head to Cape May Point. That’s where you’ll find most of the World War II relics. One of them, you absolutely can’t miss.

World War II Lookout Tower Technically called a “Fire-Control Tower No. 23,” historian Ben Ridings of Cape May Museums, Arts and Culture (MAC) admits that the “technical” name can be misleading. “We still get this question today- ‘why 54

are fire towers overlooking the water?’ It was to help the large artillery guns find their target. They were helping with the firing of shells.” MAC runs the tower and looks after its preservation and historical interpretation. The tower was originally built as part of Fort Miles in Delaware. During the war there was fear of an amphibious assault on Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Camden, New Jersey, and Wilmington, Delaware. The way to these three cities would be through the Delaware Bay. Fort Miles was constructed to prevent such an invasion. There were twenty-one fire control towers built, four of which were in New Jersey. The one at Cape May Point is the last free-standing tower, although the top of one of the towers can be seen poking out

of the roof of The Grand Hotel. Fire control towers were originally built to man the skies, but when it became apparent that the greater concern was German U-boats below the surface of the water, the towers were used to see what they could spot along the ocean. “The U-boats were a lot harder to find,” Ridings admits, since the tower only stands about seventyfive feet high. Today you can climb up Tower No. 23, where inside you’ll find rotating exhibits that highlight various topics of history. A Wall of Honor pays tribute to local residents who served during World War II, and an Eternal Flame sculpture on the boardwalk outside provides a place for quiet contemplation. The tower has been on the registry of National Historic Places for over twenty years.

Above The remnants of Battery 223—now known as “the concrete bunker”

While the naval base was located on the other side of Cape May, where the Coast Guard base is today, the service people who manned the tower did not go back and forth between shifts. “There was a little separate base by the lighthouse, which is how you have that stone bunker that’s there today,” according to Ridings. Leave your bikes at the bike rack, and let’s take a walk on the beach by the lighthouse, shall we?

The Concrete Bunker Take a walk on the beach just east of the lighthouse and you can’t miss it—the remnants of what was once Battery 223, otherwise known as “the concrete bunker”. To look at it now, it’s hard to imagine, but the bunker was once nine-hundred feet inland and surrounded by earth and sod. There was plenty of activity happening 56

within the unassuming hill. During the war, the bunker contained heavy artillery and was manned by naval gunnery crews. The seven-foot-thick concrete walls, now exposed to the ocean air, contained powder rooms, latrines, a switchboard and radio room, showers, a generator room, and more. The roof was blastproof, and the six-inch guns had a nine-mile range. While the battery’s guns were never fired against the enemy, there were drills and live fire tests that took place. In front of the bunker were Panama mounts, which held four 155mm coast artillery guns to temporarily protect the coast until the bunker’s completion in 1942. Throughout the years, the bunker became more and more exposed due to beach erosion. Because of beach replenishment, the Panama mounts are no longer visible, and all entrances are sealed up, so you can’t really go inside. Now that some of the mystery behind the concrete structure has been unveiled, let’s head back to the lighthouse.

The Lighthouse Remnants of the military base by the lighthouse are still there and still functioning today. “That area by the state park, where the bathrooms and the museum are, that was all part of the base. It was a mess hall,” according to Ben Ridings. And the lighthouse itself was also utilized for the war effort. Due to blackout restrictions, the lighthouse was not illuminated during the war. However, servicemen 57

would go to the top to see if they could spot U-boats beneath the surface of the water. “The lighthouse is double the height of MAC’s fire control tower, so it makes sense they would go up there as it would give them more height advantage and they didn’t have to build as much.” Hop back on those bikes and let’s head down to the tip of Cape May for a walk along Sunset Beach.

Below The Cape May Lighthouse

The Ghost Railroad & the Magnesite Plant

Background Cape May’s elusive “Ghost Tracks”. The tracks are located on Higbee Beach and only appear under certian tidal conditions.

“What’s interesting about Cape May during World War II, is that a lot of the relics we recognize today came about because of World War I,” says Ben Ridings, speaking about the Coast Guard Base, but also, the mysterious railroad tracks that appear every so often on Higbee Beach. If you’re at the parking lot at Sunset Beach and look up, you’ll notice an old water tower. There is an entrance nearby to a path which leads to an approximately two mile walk around Davey’s Lake (check with the Concierge for more information about guided tours at Davey’s Lake). The water tower is all that remains of the magnesite plant, built during World War II. The plant utilized the “ghost railroad tracks” that recently surfaced along the beach, which were laid down during the early 20th century. In 1905, the Cape May Sand Company was established by a man named Thomas Stevens. The Delaware Bay, Cape May, and Sewell’s Point Line, which was the railroad that ran parallel to the ocean, was created to help ship sand from the area to other parts of the country for the manufacture of glass. In 1910, sand from Cape May was used to construct the heavy locks of the Panama Canal. It was at this time that the man-made, freshwater Davey’s Lake was dug out for the use of the sand company. The lake is still there today.

During World War I, the area was leased by the Bethlehem Steel Company to test ammunition. The area remained dormant during peace time, but a flurry of activity would resurface during World War II. With the war came blockades that prevented the importation of magnesite, a substance that is necessary for the manufacture of fire brick for steel production. Seawater is often used in creating synthetic magnesite, and the spot became ideal for the plant. When the United States entered the war, the Northwest Magnesite Company purchased the land and began using the railroad to ship the product from Sunset Beach to the rest of the country, and to receive materials necessary for production. For many years, the plant provided year-round employment that was not tied to tourism, fishing or farming. It closed in 1983, the same year that the Pennsylvania-Reading Seashore line suspended operations for good. In 2014, a big nor’easter hit the Atlantic Coast and caused significant beach erosion. Due to the erosion, the tracks emerged for the first time in years. The “ghost tracks” as they’ve come to be known, get covered and resurface according to changes in the tide. Chances are a walk along Higbee Beach today could reveal signs from the more-than-a-century-old railroad that helped keep America going through two World Wars. Before we leave the southern end of the island, we should probably mention the elephant in the water...

The SS Atlantus The Atlantus has nothing to do with World War II, other than the fact that it was a lesson learned during World War I. The SS Atlantus was one of twelve concrete ships built during the first World War. With the shortage of steel, essentially, the government was trying to see if they could make ships out of concrete. The problem is, concrete ships were really heavy. Some called them “floating tombstones,” mostly because that’s what they looked like, but they were also rather inefficient. After the war, in 1926, Colonel Jesse Rosenfeld had an idea to start a ferry service from Cape May. The plan was to dig a channel where they would place the Atlantus at Sunset Beach to serve as a dock for other vessels. The ship was brought to Cape May, but during a storm, it broke free from its moorings, and ran aground a mere 150 feet from where it had been placed. Despite their greatest efforts, the concrete ship could not be moved, and has been slowly deteriorating in the Delaware Bay for nearly 100 years. It wouldn’t be until 1964 that a ferry service would come to fruition, this time with a regular dock in North Cape May. We would be remiss if we did not address the current military presence in Cape May. It’s not a place you can really visit, but it does have ties to World War II and it is worth riding your bike to the other side of Cape May to see how the war affected the town. We must be speaking, of course, about the US Coast Guard Base. 59

US Coast Guard Base “What is now the Coast Guard Base was actually started as a Naval base in World War I. Between the two wars, the Coast Guard had it, and it was shared between the Coast Guard and the Navy during World War II,” says historian Ben Ridings. The site on which the Coast Guard base sits today is known as Sewell’s Point, which was ceded to the Coast Guard in 1946 following the war. But before the military ever had a presence in Cape May, the area was owned by the Cape May Real Estate Company and was site of an old, abandoned amusement park. In 1917, the Navy moved into the building that was once

Top Postcard of Cape May’s famous Concrete Ship, dated c. 1930-1945.

Bottom Aerial photo of the Cape May US Coast Guard Base, c. 1941.

known as the “Fun Factory” and built another base across the harbor just north of Schellenger’s Landing (where the Lobster House is today). The Fun Factory burned in a huge fire on July 4th, 1918, which required the building of new barracks. The eastern end of Cape May was home to a lot of military activity, including in hotels. In 1918, the War Department leased the Hotel Cape May to be used as a military hospital. It was renamed US Army General Hospital #11 and the 600room hotel became a treatment and training facility. The Hotel was used as a hospital again during the Second World War, and later in the 20th century the building would have very close ties to Congress Hall (see story on the Christian Admiral). Between the two wars, the base at

Sewell’s Point was an airport, at one time used to accommodate dirigibles (simply put, military blimps). The largest hanger in the world was constructed there to house an aircraft that was under construction in Britain. But the ZR-2 crashed in a tragic test flight. The area became a civilian airport until American involvement in World War II, when the Navy came back to town and found a home for training aircraft carrier pilots. During World War II, Cape May was home to five branches of the military, complete with a USO and other entertainment facilities for servicemen. Following the war, as four of the five branches left the island, the Coast Guard made the area its permanent home. By 1948, it became the site of basic training for the entire east coast. In 1982, all recruit training functions were moved to Cape May. And now, if you’re willing to take a drive….

Naval Air Station Wildwood Located about a fifteen-minute drive from Cape May, Naval Air Station Wildwood is now home to a museum that records Cape May’s military history. The airport nearby is still a functioning airport, and the museum is located inside of an aircraft hanger built during World War II. Beginning in April of 1943, the air station was commissioned as a training facility for dive bomber squadrons. For two years, naval pilots were trained in night-flying and target practice over 60

the Delaware Bay. The museum tells the history of the 17,000 take-offs that took place between April of 1942 and October of 1944. While Cape May’s recorded history goes back more than fourhundred years, there’s no denying that World War II had a lasting effect on the Cape May of today. The evidence is all around—in the air, on the ground, and even below the surface of the ocean. Some stories will continue to live on, while others may remain a mystery, only to be revealed every so often when a storm causes the surface to wash away, revealing a relic that begs to have its history known.

Bottom Left A hanger at NAS Wildwood—now a museum! Below A Cape May MAC trolley tour arrives at the World War II Lookout Tower. Interested in learning more about Cape May’s history? Visit: CapeMayMAC.org

It Takes a Village T

hey say it takes a village to raise a child, but did you know it takes a lot of farms to keep one farm going? Beach Plum Farm is proud to partner with local farmers and community agricultural workers to keep the operation going like a well-

oiled machine. We interviewed a few of the farmers, butchers, and beekeepers that we are lucky to work with to learn more about them, their farms, and their symbiotic relationship with Beach Plum.

Thomas Bros. Feed Roaming the 62 acres of Beach Plum Farm, you’ll quickly notice the pens of our peppy Berkshire Pigs. It’s here where our Berkshires spend their happy lives wandering the fields, rolling in mud, and eating delicious “play waste” and feed. And boy, do they get hungry! But where does all that feed come from? The answer: not so far from Cape May! Thomas Bros. Feed Company is located a little over an hour’s drive from Beach Plum Farm in Monroeville, New Jersey. Jerry Thomas runs the business along with his cousin, James Parks. “There’s been a Thomas on the farm since 1873. It’s been in the family that long,” according to Jerry. On the four-hundred-acre farm, Jerry and James grow corn, barley, soybeans, and alfalfa, all for the purpose of creating feed for livestock. They grind the feed up using what Jerry calls “the recipe.” “It depends on what kind of feed you are creating. For Beach Plum Farm, we make pig feed which requires corn, roasted beans, meal, and trace minerals. You add X amount of pounds of each to the mixer-grinder according to the recipe.” A “mixer-grinder” is an attachment that goes on a tractor that does exactly what it sounds like. It grinds up the corn, meal, barley, and other ingredients and mixes it up. The feed is then bagged, and local farmers come to the farm in Monroeville to 64

pick up their supply. Beach Plum Farm purchases so many pounds of feed from Thomas Bros. that Jerry personally delivers it to all three Beach Plum Farm locations. Naturally, business increased since their partnership with Beach Plum Farm (there are a lot of pigs to feed!), but both Jerry and James have fulltime jobs in addition to farming. They call themselves “weekend warriors.” “Farming doesn’t pay the bills anymore, but our farm has been passed down from generation to generation.” Like the farmers at Beach Plum Farm, for Thomas Bros., the love for farming is rooted in love for the land, tradition, and family. 65

Pictured Beach Plum Farm’s pasture-raised pigs— fed buy Thomas Bros. 66

Nello’s Meats Nello Liaocono was working in the data center for New York Life when he bought a farm in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, in 1982. Up until about eleven years ago, he continued his day job in research and development while pursuing his dream of meat processing and production. “I bought the farm when I was twenty-seven years old, and we lived there and raised animals.” By that time, Nello already had an interest in the butchering business. He sought out a mentor who could introduce him to the trade, and he found Guenther “Hank” Schineller, a master butcher from Germany living in Pennsylvania. At first, Hank was reluctant to train Nello, but he was persistent and offered to work for free. Hank took Nello on as an apprentice.

“Hank taught me everything I know about being a butcher, how to hold a knife, how to cut. He taught me to make the best quality and don’t ever take shortcuts.” This advice paid off, and Nello’s business has grown rather significantly since it became an official, federally inspected operation eleven years ago. By that time, his kids were grown, he retired from his day job, and with help from his wife Jan, he became a fulltime butcher. In 2011, Nello had one employee; today, he has thirty-one. He is more than happy to pass down all the knowledge he has gained to those who work for him. “I want the people I hire to learn the business of butchering. That’s why I don’t hide anything. I teach them the spice blends, and how everything works. The idea is for them to learn so they can move on and up in their careers.”

Each year Nello takes a group of employees to the Pennsylvania Association of Meat Processors held at Penn State University. At the event they meet in community with other butchers and attend classes. Besides his years as an apprentice with Hank, Nello also trained with Luigi Pintore and Pietro Castoldi of Milan, Italy, in making salami and charcuterie. Several years ago, Nello became connected with Beach Plum Farm. He’d gained a reputation with hunters and with local restaurants in Pennsylvania and New York for his high-quality meats. After a newspaper article named him one of the top three butchers in the tri-state area, business boomed. But what exactly does a butcher do? “I don’t slaughter,” he affirms. “I know how to, but I don’t.” He does all of the cuts of meat and creates specialty products. “For Beach Plum I know they like the long bone pork chop. If they want

a specific kind of sausage, I make that too. I have private spice blends for different farms. I’ve made sixty-five varieties of sausage and eight varieties of hot dogs, roast, and smoked hams. I’ve also made charcuterie for Beach Plum Farm, specific salami blends. I use primary spices because it lasts longer. I know that my stuff is not cheap, but it’s better quality. It lasts longer.” Nello gets so much business from Beach Plum Farm, he bought a new freezer truck to deliver the meat to Cape May. “We wanted to keep them as customers—they’re a good account. They’re easy and pleasant to work with.” The purchase ended up paying off in more ways than one. Around the time that Nello bought his new truck, the Covid-19 pandemic hit, and with it came more business. As Frank Germanio observed from his farm in Belleplain, the lack of supply

on supermarket shelves had people looking locally to get their food, especially meats. Nello’s Meats needed to produce continuously to keep up with demand, and the truck provided the necessary extra freezer space. Whenever Nello has a surplus, he donates it to the food bank, as giving back to the community has always been an important part of his work. “It’s the right thing to do.”

South Jersey Honey Giving back is something bees do naturally, which is one of the first things Jim Parker of South Jersey Honey will tell you. Twelve years ago, Jim was stuck on the couch recovering from a hip replacement, when he

started watching YouTube videos about bees and beekeeping. Upon his recovery, he bought his first set of bees and kept a hive in his backyard in nearby Rio Grande. Jim has spent the past twelve years learning everything there is to know about bees. Back then, he found a kindred spirit in Bill Gerber, another local who was interested in beekeeping. Jim and Bill met when their children were dating in high school, and their partnership in the bee business blossomed. First, they raised bees in their respective backyards. Then, they found a farm in Lower Township where they kept a couple of bee boxes. A change in ownership left them looking for a new place to house their beehives. “About five or six years ago, I had a friend who worked for Cape Resorts full time. He introduced me to the folks at Beach Plum Farm, and we 70

started taking care of the bees at their properties.” So how exactly does one raise bees? “Bees essentially raise themselves,” says Jim. “As long as you give them good food and good shelter.” There’s a little more to it than that. It involves checking the boxes constantly. On weekends, Jim and Bill make the rounds and open up the boxes to make sure the hive has not been invaded by any pests or mites. They also check to make sure the hive isn’t overcrowded. This could lead to a swarm. “A swarm is when the queen leaves the hive with a group of bees and starts a hive somewhere else. As long as there are eggs that are three days old or less, the hive is ok. The bees will make a new queen. But if not, then the bees can’t grow properly. They’ll die off.” To prevent a swarm from adversely affecting the farm’s honey supply, Jim places empty boxes nearby where the runaway queen and her bees can live should the original hive become overcrowded. In the summer months, bees are constantly producing food and storing it. They cluster, but they do not hibernate. Usually bees find an abundance of food in summer, but many days of rain could affect their supply. Otherwise the bees continue to work hard to produce their honey. “Summer bees can have a life expectancy of six to seven weeks,” according to Jim. “They literally work themselves to death.” Honey is harvested between June and July, but Jim and Bill don’t 71

want to harvest too much. Bees stop production in October, and their food supply has to last through the winter Bees in the summertime are surprisingly docile. When Jim opens up the box, he puts a few puffs of smoke in to clear the way, and the bees move aside. But in the fall—“They’re nasty. They’re trying to protect the honey supply for the winter. I try to stop harvesting by August.” Last year Jim and Bill harvested about five hundred pounds of honey, much of which came from Beach Plum Farm. The bees kept at Beach Plum account for fifty percent of the bees raised by South Jersey Honey, and yet they yield sixty to seventy percent of the harvest. Jim credits the abundance of food available. “There’s a lot of wildflowers down there.” And also, the conditions were optimal last year. “The way the rains were coming … it would rain just enough to feed the nectar of the plants.” So has Jim ever been attacked by bees? “A couple of times. I wear a jacket and gloves, but I was wearing short socks when I opened up a hot hive once. They tore me up!” he says with a chuckle. Clearly, he would advise against going near beehives unless you really know what you’re doing. Despite the stings, raising bees is still a passion project for Jim. “Bees are what makes farms work. They make food for us. I enjoy it so much. I could talk about bees all day long.”

Bringing It Home It’s an honor for our farm to be part of a venerable community of makers; an ecosystem of farmers dedicated to their craft. Since 2008, Beach Plum Farm has grown to produce over 100 kinds of vegetables, fruits and meats. If you stayed with us back in 20092010, you may remember our small farm stand. We’ve grown a bit since then! Beach Plum Farm is proud to provide fresh ingredients all over the Cape May community. You’ll find our flavor on the menus of Louisa’s Cafe, the Ebbitt Room, the Blue Pig Tavern, the Rusty Nail and more. Beginning in 2020, Beach Plum Farm instituted a range of regenerative farming practices. “This is about understanding the natural ecological system,” explained agricultural director Christina Albert. “It’s about working with nature, instead of trying to control it.” Regenerative agriculture allows for the conservation of soil by rotating its use. Beach Plum Farm’s fields all follow a 3-year cycle. To start

the process, a field is given a season of rest by planting a cover crop. Livestock grazing and allowing freerange poultry to roam is the focus of the second season, while the third season is a return to growing produce. “We’re allowing for an environment the crops understand,” Albert said, “rather than making them conform to an environment that’s been thrust upon them.” Because the end result of regenerative farming includes healthier land, healthier farmers and better tasting food, Albert’s hope is that it catches on like wildfire—or at least like the organic craze did. In the meantime, she is content making a small-but-powerful impact in Cape May. “Having the opportunity to supply our restaurants while doing right by the land is fantastic,” she said. “We hope to be a beacon for those interested in promoting good ecological practices, and we want people who visit this place to know: Our food was grown in a way that mirrors the values of Cape Resorts. We’re not just talking the talk… we’re walking the walk, too.”

Our Family Wherever you’re staying with us in Cape May, we hope you’ll recognize the distinctive touch that makes your visit memorable and meaningful. Each Cape Resorts hotel has its own personality, but all share the same warm, welcoming spirit and reflect our commitment to giving our guests an authentic, all-American resort vacation. That means beautiful settings—from The Virginia’s quaint spot on Jackson Street to the majestic beachfront location enjoyed by Congress Hall— accompanied by an approachable (and fun) design ethos, an array of wonderful dining options, plus can’t-miss activities for everyone in the family from morning ’til evening. On the following pages, you can become more acquainted with the diverse properties that make up the Cape Resorts family.

Congress Hall

est.

1816

WHAT The oldest seaside hotel in America. WHERE The majestic L-shaped building sits on the beachfront and also on Congress Place, next to the Washington Street shopping district. HISTORY Built in 1816 by Thomas Hughes, the hotel was so big—reportedly the largest seaside hotel in the country at the time—locals thought it could never work, and they called it Tommy’s Folly. Hughes called it The Big House by the Sea. Twelve years later, it was renamed Congress Hall because of Hughes’s election to Congress. Four sitting presidents stayed here—Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, Ulysses Grant and Benjamin Harrison, who in 1891 turned the ground floor of the hotel into his Summer White House. VIBE This Cape May landmark is a haven of relaxed elegance and historic charm. BEST FOR Families looking to create memories and couples in need of a getaway. AWARDS Since 2012, Congress Hall has been honored by Condé Nast Traveler magazine as one of the top US hotels in the Northeast. Most recently, it was awarded the #13 spot in the magazine’s Reader’s Choice Awards Top 20 Hotels in the Mid-Atlantic and New York regions. It was also named Best Hotel in New Jersey by Travel and Leisure magazine in its annually released World’s Best Awards. WHAT’S NEW? Congress Hall’s iconic Grand Lawn is now a coveted dining destination throughout the summer and during the holidays, with seasonal cocktails and light fare beginning in June, and festive winter igloos in December. 77

Congress Place Suites

est.

1890

WHAT Beautifully renovated apartments located across from Congress Hall. WHERE In the heart of historic Cape May, one block from the beach on Perry Street. HISTORY These beautifully renovated, fully equipped apartment-style rooms joined the Cape Resorts family in 2017. Sitting above the quaint shops of Washington Street, one of the earliest examples of a pedestrian-only zone on an American main street, these second-story suites were built to mirror the same fresh, cool blue tones and whimsical seaside decor characteristic of sister property Congress Hall. VIBE Bright and sunny, thanks to picture windows that allow for natural light and provide the ideal frame for people watching. A couple of the suites also provide the ideal vantage point for dolphin spotting, taking in the fireworks on the Fourth of July or watching the annual West Cape May Christmas Parade. BEST FOR Families or couples looking for a comfortable home away from home. WHAT’S NEW? Arguably the best spot in town, Congress Place Suites offer views of Congress Hall, Washington Street, and more. This season, the Suites went through a thorough refresh with whimsical touches and luxury amenities. 78

The Virginia

est.

1879

WHAT An impeccably restored 1879 landmark hotel. WHERE In the middle of beautiful Jackson Street, a half-block from the beach. HISTORY Like many Cape May hotels,The Virginia was built following the catastrophic fire of 1878, which wiped out 35 downtown acres. When Cape May slumped in the 1900s,The Virginia went from a high-class hotel to a rooming house. It was condemned in the 1980s and then bought in 1986 by Curtis Bashaw and his family. It was renovated and reopened in 1989, the first Cape Resorts property. VIBE Polished and elegant, cozy and intimate, The Virginia is a jewel box of quality—think of bathroom amenities made with ingredients fresh from Beach Plum Farm, infused with lavender, lemon verbena and mint. And then there’s its highly acclaimed restaurant, The Ebbitt Room, plus a classic cocktail lounge with piano entertainment. BEST FOR Couples looking for a boutique hotel experience. AWARDS Since 2012, the hotel has been honored by Condé Nast Traveler magazine as one of the top US hotels in the Northeast. It was awarded the #4 spot in the magazine’s Reader’s Choice Awards Top 20 Hotels in the Mid-Atlantic and New York regions. WHAT’S NEW? The Virginia went through a full porch renovation this season. Ample seating allows for leisurely breakfasts, lively cocktail hours, and dining al fresco throughout the year. 79

The Virginia Cottages

est.

1891

WHAT A collection of five charming cottages—Red, White, Gray, Brown and Pink. WHERE On historic, breezy Jackson Street, a half-block from the beach and the mall. HISTORY In 1891, Edward Knight, owner of Congress Hall, hired architect Stephen Decatur Button (who also designed Congress Hall and once lived next door to Walt Whitman) to draw up plans for seven identical cottages. The buildings have changed use several times—three are now owned and operated by Cape Resorts. VIBE Equal parts classic and comfort. BEST FOR Available as separate apartments or full-house rentals, these are ideal for families or groups of friends, girls’ getaway trips or wedding groups. WHAT’S NEW? The Red Cottage went through a top-to-bottom renovation, elevating the comfort and convenience of this unique accommodation. 80

The Beach Shack

est.

1966

WHAT A stylish, relaxed oceanfront hotel. WHERE Just west of Grant Street, directly across from the beach… everyone stands on their tippy toes to peer over the dunes when the dolphins start leaping. HISTORY Established by Philadelphia builder Jules Hober, this laid-back hotel began as The Coachman’s Motor Inn in 1966. Ten years later, construction began on the Rusty Nail bar and restaurant, in a style inspired by the chalets Hober found at the ski resorts he frequented. He saw a table fashioned from a tree in Vermont, and loved the look of it so much he tracked down the carpenter, who made Jules a bar from the same wood. The Coachman’s and Rusty Nail remained in the Hober family until 2005, when they sold to Cape Resorts, who relaunched the hotel property as the Beach Shack in 2009. VIBE Fresh, fun and flip-flop friendly all year-round, thanks to the addition of heating in the rooms (and a rustic-chic fireplace indoors at the Nail, too). The shades of blue and orange and the pineapple motif carpeting evoke a 1970s Hawaii vibe. Kids in particular will love the bunk rooms, a popular new coastal design trend. BEST FOR Anyone who likes to feel the sand between their toes. AWARDS The attached Rusty Nail is one of Travel and Leisure magazine’s top 10 picks for best beach bars in America. WHAT’S NEW? Make a splash in the beautiful new Beach Shack pool! In addition to a new swimming pool, the Beach Shack has added new guest rooms and expanded garden areas for first floor rooms. 81

The Star

est.

1926

WHAT The Star, Congress Hall’s remarkably versatile sister property, consists of an inn, a motel and carriage house. WHERE On Perry Street, close to the shops, beaches and restaurants. HISTORY This property used to be the site of the Ocean House Hotel, a grand old dame that took up the whole block. It is also where the Great Fire of 1878 began. Embers from this blaze blew off the roof onto Congress Hall, burning that down and eventually raging through 35 acres of town. VIBE Imaginative and inspiring (with a coffee shop on site). BEST FOR Family vacations or group getaways. The Star offers a range of accommodations to suit the needs of every type of traveler. Couples love our cozy Inn Guest Rooms, while the kitchenettes, living rooms and outdoor sitting areas of our motel-style Star Suites make them a great option for families and groups. For even more space, choose to stay in one of our beautiful Carriage House Suites—two luxurious two-bedroom suites set atop a renovated carriage house, each with full kitchens, washer/dryers and fulllength decks looking toward the ocean. WHAT’S NEW? Things are heating up at the Star Inn with new fire pits for all first floor rooms, along with a refresh of the guest rooms and coffee shop. 82

Sandpiper Beach Club

est.

1977

WHAT A condominium resort with 51 one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, living rooms and balconies… most with spectacular ocean views. WHERE Overlooking the dunes of Cape May’s beautiful main strand. HISTORY The original building, which shows up on maps from 1878, was built around 1870 by Richard D. Wood, a wealthy Philadelphia businessman who helped establish the Cape May Ocean Wave newspaper and West Jersey Railroad. In1940, the property was demolished and replaced by the Cape May Motel before being bought in 1977 by Robert and Ruth Escher, who enlarged the building to the 65-room Sandpiper in the early 80s. In 2004, Cape Resorts acquired the property and renovated it into condos. The company now manages the property on behalf of the owners. VIBE It feels like a luxe hotel—think pool, daily housekeeping, beach service, sauna, concierge service and expansive fitness center—but with a sense of home-sweet-home. BEST FOR Families who want to plant some roots in America’s first seaside resort (with signing privileges at all Cape Resorts properties). AWARDS The Sandpiper has been named one of Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards Top 20 Best Hotels in Mid-Atlantic and New York. WHAT’S NEW? The Sandpiper Beach Club’s new pool isn’t the only exciting improvement for the 2022 season. New kitchen appliances, furniture and decor will debut this spring. 83

Beach Plum Cottages

est.

2018

WHAT A collection of cottages located on a 62-acre working farm. WHERE An idyllic spot on Stevens Street in West Cape May. HISTORY Beach Plum Farm launched in 2007 as a way to provide local produce for the Cape Resorts restaurants. What started as a modest operation has grown to include more than 100 crops. And the concept of the farm has expanded, too. Since the space opened to the public in 2009, it’s become a serene place for connecting with nature and one another, usually over a meal of farm-fresh food and drink. The space offers a produce market and storein an Amish-built barn, a kitchen that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and overnight stays in five farm cottages. VIBE With a beautiful landscape and a soundtrack of bird song and contented, free-to-roam farm animals. It’s as chill as you would imagine. BEST FOR Families, groups of friends or wedding parties... and everyone who appreciates sunshine, beautiful scenery and real, clean food. AWARDS Beach Plum Farm was awarded a “Hero” designation from Edible Jersey Magazine for working to protect the “culinary soul” of the Garden State. WHAT’S NEW? Beach Plum Farm has a talented new Chef, beautifully renovated garden seating, and horseback riding in 2022. Keep an eye out for the newly renovated West Cottage to join the portfolio this season. 84

Baron’s Cove

est.

1962

WHAT An all-American resort destination situated on a harborfront. WHERE In Sag Harbor, a charming little village in the Hamptons of New York. HISTORY After a two-year renovation, Baron’s Cove reopened to guests in the summer of 2015. It embraces the history of the original 1960s hotel, which boasted prominent guests including John and Elaine Steinbeck, Paul Newman, Art Garfunkel and Richard Kind. Local leaders, out-of-town guests and regional artists regularly gathered in the restaurant and hotel. VIBE The resort offers the same spirit of creativity and community while also offering up-to-date amenities expected from a modern resort. It’s a quiet, intimate and accessible place to stay any time of year. The nautically inspired lounge is the place to relax with a cocktail or glass of wine, whether on a summer afternoon or a chilly fall evening. BEST FOR Anyone looking to explore the wineries, farmer’s markets, antique stores, shopping and culture on offer in Eastern Long Island. This is the perfect home base. AWARDS Baron’s Cove was honored as one of the Top 20 Hotels in the New York and Mid-Atlantic region by Conde Nast Traveler magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards. WHAT’S NEW? It’s all about the outdoors this season with private sailing, pool and beach days at our new sister property on Shelter Island, and Chef ’s delicious seasonal picnic hikes at Mashomack Preserve. 85

The Pridwin

est.

1927

WHAT A beloved all-American resort. WHERE On Shelter Island, a beautiful island community on New York’s Eastern Long Island. HISTORY Back in the 1920s, it was considered a folly (similar to the history of our beloved Congress Hall!); not quite as large in its size compared to the other grand resorts that originated on Shelter Island. Now, it’s the last grand resort to remain. For nearly 100 summers, the Pridwin has played host to cocktail parties, cookouts, Fourth of July celebrations, and soirées of all sizes, each set before the sparkling waters of Crescent Beach. VIBE Nestled under a canopy of old-growth oak trees and skirted by a lawn dotted with Adirondack chairs, the Pridwin feels like a retreat from a lost era—and that’s because it is. Think cocktail parties on a sweeping porch, dining overlooking the beach, leisurely swims in the pool, and jumping right off the private dock into the sparkling waters of Long Island Sound. BEST FOR Families looking for an authentic Shelter Island resort experience. WHAT’S NEW? The Pridwin underwent a complete renovation, preparing it for another century of service to Shelter Island. From whimsical interiors to spacious new cottages, and excursions and activities for all ages—The Pridwin Hotel is a short jaunt from Manhattan, but feels like a world away. 86

Food & Drink We know vacation is all about the food—and maybe a cocktail or two. With Cape Resorts, you’ll have a plethora of taste at your fingertips. Plus, all of our restaurants source ingredients from our very own Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May, meaning that each dish and drink you’ll try is made from the freshest of ingredients. From elegant fine dining at the Ebbitt Room, hearty staples of the Blue Pig Tavern, to delicious coffee and baked goods from Tommy’s Folly and the Beach Plum Farm Café, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving in Cape May.

Cape Resorts Food Guide

THE BLUE PIG TAVERN

THE EBBITT ROOM

THE RUSTY NAIL

The cozy tavern style is underlined by a wood-burning fireplace. On warmer evenings, reser ve a table on the lush garden patio and enjoy classic American fare.

Using fresh produce from Beach Plum Farm, Chef Jason Hanin’s menu wows guests—the buzzy-yet-intimate vibe helps, too. The bar is a favorite spot, along with the front porch.

The hottest beachfront spot in town offers reasonably priced fare from Chef Jimmy Bur ton with an emphasis on local seafood. Don’t miss Chef Jimmy’s Monday Night Pig Roast.

Location: 200 Congress Place Meals Served: Breakfast , Lunch, Dinner Reservations: Recommended Phone: 609-884-8422

Location: 25 Jackson Street Meals Served: Dinner Reservations: Recommended Phone: 609-884-5700

Location: Beach Avenue, near Patterson Meals Served: Breakfast , Lunch, Dinner Reservations: Recommended Phone: 609-884-0017

BEACH PLUM FARM KITCHEN

TOMMY’S FOLLY CAFÉ

THE BOILER ROOM

Breakfast and lunch dishes loaded with produce straight from the farm. And look out for regular pop-up dinners throughout the year.

Tommy’s Folly has a full menu of La Colombe coffee drinks, plus freshly made breakfast sandwiches, pastries, soups and salads—grab and go to the veranda rockers for an extra treat.

Thin-crust, brick-oven pizza and seasonal salads with fresh farm ingredients. Plus draft beer on tap. Don’t miss the live enter tainment, from acoustic acts to dance bands.

Location: 140 Stevens Street, West Cape May Meals Served: Breakfast , Lunch Reservations: No ( Yes for Dinner) Phone: 609-602-0128

Location: 200 Congress Place Meals Served: Breakfast , Lunch, Treats Reservations: No Phone: 609-884-6522

Location: 200 Congress Place Meals Served: Dinner, Late-Night Snacks Reservations: Recommended Phone: 609-884-6507

THE BROWN ROOM

BEACH PLUM BAKERY & CAFÉ

POOL & BEACH SERVICE

Congress Hall’s elegant cocktail lounge features a spectacular fireplace and a wood-and-marble bar. Enjoy a great cocktail menu, excellent appetizers and live music.

West End Garage’s eater y ser ves sweet and savor y pastries, sandwiches, soups, cold-pressed coffee on tap, classic coffee and espresso beverages, teas and La Colombe Draft Lattes.

Location: 200 Congress Place Meals Served: Dinner, Cocktail Snacks Reservations: Recommended Phone: 609-884-8421

Location: 484 West Perry Street Meals Served: Breakfast , Lunch, Treats Reservations: No Phone: 609-770-8261

From the comfor t of your lounger, fill out an order card and have lunch delivered right to your pool or beach table. Available at Congress Hall, The Virginia, The Sandpiper and Beach Shack.

EBBITT ROOM BAR & PORCH

THE GRAND LAWN & VERANDA BAR

There are four cozy nooks as an alternative to the dining room. Tr y to snag a seat on the front porch—there’s no better place to indulge. Location: 25 Jackson Street Meals Served: Dinner Reservations: Recommended Phone: 609-884-5700

Congress Hall’s breezy outdoor dining and cocktail venue, featuring service to the veranda rocking chairs and tables spaced out overlooking the ocean. Location: 200 Congress Place Meals Served: Dinner, Small Plates Reservations: Recommended

Meals Served: Lunch, Snacks Reservations: No

FARM-TO-TABLE DINNERS A seasonal series of elegant dinners at our farm, featuring an ever-changing menu that utilizes ingredients sourced from our fields. Location: 140 Stevens Street, West Cape May Meals Served: Dinner Reservations: Required Phone: 609-602-0128 90

The Farm-to-Table Dinner Series Each year, Beach Plum Farm hosts a series of intimate Farm-to-Table Dinners. Spontaneous and ever-changing, these dinners are seasonal celebrations of our farm’s harvests, immersing our guests in the truest of field-to-fork flavor. The ingredients on each menu are plucked—quite literally—just steps away from the table, and each selection is prepared by our Executive Chef using sustainablyraised meats, produce, and garden herbs.

learn more at B E A C H P L U M F A R M C A P E M AY. C O M

SP RING Beach Plum Farm comes alive in the spring, transitioning from young blooms to lush, green gardens over the course of a few weeks. Spring dinners are intimate, served personally by Chef in our Amish Barn, or by candlelight in our Hoop House, surrounded by fresh greenery.

SUM M E R Summer on the farm is bright and lively. The smell of open fire cooking complements the fresh produce and fertile fields in which these open-air dinners are served.

FAL L Fall is a magical time in Cape May with warm days, crisp, cool nights, and a farm still in bloom with the last of summer’s bounty. Dinners are hosted in the field, or our warm Hoop House, surrounded by the season’s harvest.

HO L I DAY Beach Plum Farm provides a magical background to celebrate the season of thanks and togetherness, adorned with winter greens and holly. Holiday dinners highlight our heritage meats and flavorful root vegetables with rich desserts and caroling as the evening’s finale. 92

Beach & Pool The summer season is all about our beaches and pools. Cape May’s wide, breezy, white-sand beaches are regularly named among America’s best in numerous annual surveys, so we know you’re going to want to spend a lot of time on them—especially since you’re being pampered by our beach staff. There are reasons why your mind and body crave beach time—studies have shown you get a vitamin D boost from the sunshine, the iodine in the

ocean is an excellent immune system booster, the sand does a fine job of exfoliating your body, and salt water helps remove toxins from the skin. If you’re not a beach person, relax on a poolside lounger, dozing and reading, snacking and cocktailing (the prohibition of alcohol on Cape May’s beaches does not apply at our pools), being waited on by attentive staff and splashing around with family and friends.

Guests of Congress Hall, The Star and The Virginia can enjoy Congress Hall’s pool bar, surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the hotel’s famous Grand Lawn. Serving lunch, snacks and drinks, the pool bar facilitates long, lazy, self-indulgent (in a good way!) days. Not only is our delicious menu offered poolside at Congress Hall, but the pool bar is open daily in season. The menu features treats such as delicious burgers, housemade salads and our irresistible french fries. Pair with a cold craft beer or a poolside cocktail for the perfect combination. Guests of the Beach Shack and the Sandpiper can enjoy poolside food and beverage service from the Rusty Nail.

Please Respect our Beach Rules The beaches in front of our properties are public and are shared with our neighbors and visitors. As a result, please take note of the following rules so that everyone may enjoy a wonderful day by the ocean...

a place in the sun

Our attendants will set up your chairs, umbrellas and towels once most members of your party arrive on the beach and are ready to occupy their chairs. Please note that we cannot set up chairs in advance. City laws forbid us from doing so—please do not ask our attendants to bend the rules (however nicely you do it!). Beach attendants will arrange the set-ups on a firstcome, first-served basis, once guests are present. This applies to families, multiple families and groups. We hope that you trust us to try to accommodate your needs while respecting the public aspect of our beautiful beach.

empty nesting

Please notify our attendants if you intend to be away from your chairs for more than 30 minutes. They will happily collect your chairs and umbrellas and reset them upon your return.

refreshments

Alcohol is not permitted on the beaches of Cape May. We do, however, have a selection of water, sodas, juices and smoothies. Alcohol is available at Congress Hall’s pool bar and at the Rusty Nail.

tipping

We do not automatically add a service charge to pool and beach checks. Please tip according to the service you receive when you receive your check.

Shop & Spa Antiquing. Manicures. Trying on that new pair of shoes. Relaxation takes many forms—and during a Cape May vacation, you have access to some of our town’s best boutique shopping and spa destinations. Stop by Tommy’s Folly, a chic and colorful collection of shops in Congress Hall and on Perry Street.Then, mosey over to West Cape May, where you’ll discover West End Garage—the perfect spot for vintage finds. And, of course, the Sea Spa is calling your name.... On the following pages, you’ll get to know some of our favorite Cape May treasures.

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The Shops at Tommy’s Folly The stores at Tommy’s Folly now offer more than ever! You’ll still find the great branded items and stylish boutique clothing you’re used to... but the layout now offers more fun, useful and inspiring shopping. Tommy’s Folly Coffee Shop is now Tommy’s Folly Café, with tables where you can enjoy coffee and snacks—and browse the comprehensive selection of newspapers, magazines and everyday essentials. Across the hall, you’ll find an exciting combination of the old General Store and Home Store. Browse a kaleidoscopic range of Congress Hall-branded merchandise for the entire family, from caps to belts to yoga pants and tees, plus Blue Pig pajamas for women and kids made exclusively for Tommy’s Folly by Roberta Roller Rabbit, and Blue Pig boxers and lounge pants for men. If you love the china and linens found in our grand hotel, you can buy them right here. And don’t miss the must-have collection of Congress Hall Christmas ornaments and collectible snow globes! Tommy’s Folly Boutique has expanded and moved across Perry Street. Here you will find an exclusive selection of carefully curated resort wear and accessories. Next door is the new Tommy’s Folly Kids shop, where cute meets cool. You’ll find swimwear from Snapper Rock and Sunuva, swim goggles from Bling2O, and mermaid tails! Plus, we offer a selection of toys for all-day fun.

learn more at TO M M Y S F O L LY C A P E M AY. C O M

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West End Garage, a Shopping Dream West End Garage, Cape May’s most interesting collection of boutiques, artisans and collectibles, is nestled into two historic warehouses—an old Model T dealership and gas station as well as a former bakery. There are now over 50 vendors offering a dizzying array of all things beautiful, quirky and cool. Local photographers and artists display their many wares here, plus there are antiques, home furnishings, books, jewelry, vintage clothing, and gourmet food including olive oils, vinegars, sauces, jams, candy... the list goes on. The best thing? The inventory changes regularly—which is why it’s so much fun to keep coming back.

learn more at T H E W E S T E N D G A R AG E . C O M

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Sea Spa Everything you need to know about the Sea Spa at Congress Hall—it’ll take your vacation to a whole new level of relaxation. What services are offered? An enticing selection of massages (from relaxing to therapeutic) as well as ocean-inspired facials and body treatments. Plus an array of beauty services including manicures, pedicures and waxing. What kinds of products are used? SkinCeuticals products, which are made in the USA and feature clinical skincare used by dermatologists, plastic surgeons and medi-spas for daily home care and to complement aesthetic procedures. This product line works to correct signs of aging, protect healthy skin, and prevent future damage. We also retail lotions, bath salts and shampoo using herbs from our Beach Plum Farm. Any specials and packages on offer? Throughout the year, Sea Spa is always coming up with innovative ways to help you unwind. Check in with our Spa Concierge to see what specials are being offering during your visit.

Do you feature massages for couples? We offer an Outside Garden Couples Massage.This takes place in a cabana off the veranda, adjacent to the spa. Do you have any services for men? We have massages, body treatments, facials and nail services all tailored to a man’s needs. The Gentleman’s Facial is for that hard-working man who wants to erase some of those signs of tiredness and stress. Men can also enjoy hot towel treatments plus gentleman’s manicures and pedicures. What do you have to offer wedding parties? Customized facials, exfoliation and massage treatments and mani-pedi combinations will have your hands ready for the ring! Do you cater to groups or other special events? Definitely! It’s the perfect place to relax and indulge with family, friends, colleagues or corporate guests.

learn more at S E A S PA C A P E M AY. C O M

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Campus Activities There’s always something exciting happening at Cape Resorts. From summer carnivals to Winter Wonderland festivities, any time of year is a great time to experience something new on our island. learn more at C A P E R E S O RT S . C O M / A C T I V I T I E S

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Summer Carnivals at Congress Hall, Tie-Dye Tuesdays at the Rusty Nail, Train Rides on the Congress Hall Express, Outdoor activities at Beach Plum Farm

Fall Hayrides & Pumpkin Picking at Beach Plum Farm, Guided Nature Hikes & Excursions

The Holidays Breakfast with Santa at Congress Hall, Winter Wonderland festivities, Congress Hall Tree Lighting, Holiday Events at Beach Plum Farm

Spring Spring Break Wilderness Adventure activities like Birding, Watercolors, Nature Hikes, Archery & much more

TEXT OR CALL THE CONCIERGE Our Concierge team is always in the know about what’s happening around campus. We’ll happily assist you with reservations and handle any other arrangements to help make your stay as easy and hassle-free as possible.

Text: 609-849-3132

Call: 609-884-6542

Concierge@CapeResorts.com 108

Dedicated in memory of Charles Riter— photographer, artist and friend

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Concierge Magazine 2022

Articles inside

Campus Activities

The Shops at Tommy’s Folly

West End Garage

Food & Drink The Cape Resorts Food Guide

Beach & Pool Making a splash in Cape May

Our Hotels Our family of hotels, cottages and inns

Summer Sounds A Q&A with the musicians of Cape Resorts

It Takes a Village The cooperatives of Beach Plum Farm

Dave the Gardener Getting to know Dave “the Gardener” Chanudet

War Relics An exploration of Cape May’s WWII History

The Heroes of Summer An interview with the Cape May Beach Patrol

The Lost Sister Reflections on the Christian Admiral

Welcome Letter By Curtis Bashaw

Inside the Cocoon All about the Monarch Butterfly