Bay Magazine Summer 2022 by bay magazine

bay magazine S U M M E R

L E I S U R E

•

2 0 2 2

L I F E S T Y L E bay-magazine.com 1

500 Barnegat Blvd. North Barnegat, NJ 08005 Building 400

waltershomes.com 2 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Walters Architecture, LLC. - Lic # N.J. AI19884

Luxury in every way. Architecture. Custom Homes. Realty. Our three divisions offer you all-inclusive services that seamlessly turn your dream home vision into reality. Over the years, we have mastered the home building process from beginning to end – saving you time and money. Our team of experts will be with you every step of the way to ensure your home is designed around your lifestyle and how you’d like to enjoy it.

Don’t wait, start building your dream home today. Call 609.597.6999 or visit waltershomes.com ALL HOMES ARE TO BE ENERGY STAR® CERTIFIED Look for high performance homes built to EPA’s ENERGY STAR Homes Program. ENERGY STAR Homes offer enduring quality, value-adding energy efficiency features and a combination of materials and equipment that deliver better performance and an overall superior level of quality. New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program™ is brought to you by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and does not endorse any one particular builder. Information can be found at bay-magazine.com 3 NJCleanEnergy.com.

Contents

Open House 17

Live up to the Hype

More than Advise

The Steps

Maximizing Value on LBI

Ask the Decorator

A Dynamic Evolution of Transitional Design

Beyond Seashells & Sailboats

A Comfortable & Beautiful Home Starts Between the Sheets

The Journey

Bright & Welcoming

Creating a Customer Experience like no other

4 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

SOUTHERN OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER

INNOVATIVE TREATMENTS CLOSE TO HOME ADVANCED CARE IN OCEAN COUNTY KEEPS GETTING BETTER

At Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center, we’ve dedicated our lives to making sure you have access to advanced care, right here in Ocean County. We’re honored to offer you nationally-recognized stroke and heart care, as well as the region’s only robotic weight loss surgery program. We also provide access to over 500 cancer clinical trials across our network, including those with Hackensack Meridian John Theurer Cancer Center, one of the top cancer programs in the region. We believe every patient deserves to keep getting better, close to home. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org or call 844-HMH-WELL to find a physician.

Source: U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals 2021 – 2022. High Performing Heart Failure and Stroke.

KEEP GETTING BETTER

bay-magazine.com 5

Contents Healthy Living 80

Breath

Don’t put you Life on Hold for Joint Pain

Exercise is Child Play

Welcome Summer

100 Relax or Exercise

Get the Look 104

Totally Awesome

109

Cultivating your Inner Yogi with Conscious Consumerism

114

Don’t Sweat It

Feature Story 118

Finding Joy in Giving Back

Weddings 124

Wedding Bliss

132

The Rehearsal

134

Infinity Jewelry

139

Boho Bride

147

A Rustic Wedding

150

Just Married

156

Wedding Bliss Expo

Photo by Michael John Murphy 6 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 7

Contents Feed Your Mind 162 LBI’s #1 Seafood Cookbook 177 Ingredients for Success 182 Quarter Century Celebration 186 The Views 190 The Oyster

Art 194 Potters 200 Meet me at the Beach

Did you Know 210

Explore LBI

213

A Bond like No Other

219

Fun for All

224

An Iconic Oceanfront Refresh

226

Our Precious Ecosystem

228

A Perfect Wave

234

New Look

Photo by Robin Chase 8 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

FINE HOMES AND RENOVATIONS

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

WWW.DFINELLIHOMES.COM ! 609.342.0495

bay-magazine.com 9 NJ REGISTERED BUILDER LICENSE #45586

bay magazine

LEISURE & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FALL 2022 ADVERTISING | SUBMISSIONS | GENERAL INQUIRES

bay-magazine.com

info@bay-mag.com

bay magazine

CO-FOUNDER | CHAIRMAN PUBLISHER GARY HENDERSON CO-FOUNDER | EDITORIAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR FARRELL DUNLEAVY VP OPERATIONS LUELLEN HENDERSON

CONCEPT & STYLING WEDDINGS JEANNE COON-BOGATH BOGATH WEDDINGS AND EVENTS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS MICHAEL JOHN MURPHY JOHN MARTINELLI MICHAEL SPARK ROBIN CHASE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LISA SIMEK DENISE PETTI SUSAN FIELD JENNA COWPERTHWAITE SARAH HODGSON CAROLYN MIJAL ELAINE SISKO KATIE HOOD SUSAN VON BRACHEL MATT BURTON KATIE RIBSAM JESSICA SCANGARELLO THOM SWEENEY

ADVERTISING SUBMISSIONS GENERAL INQUIRES info@bay-mag.com

For a digital copy of bay magazine visit our website at www.bay-magazine.com. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by bay magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine.

bay-magazine.com 10 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

The Book

THE EXPERTISE YOU WANT. THE CUSTOMER SERVICE YOU NEED.

Kitchen Design by Woodhaven Kitchen & Design Center for Ted Fluehr Jr. Custom Homes Designer: Yasmin Deren Photographer: John Martinelli

CABINETRY CLOSETS FLOORING WINDOWS DOORS MANAHAWKIN 609-597-1118 ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS: LAKEWOOD, POINT PLEASANT BEACH, SHREWSBURY* *Kitchen & Closet Design Center only

WOODHAVENLUMBER.COM

bay-magazine.com 11

FOUNDERS NOTE

We Thank you Just when we’d thought we’d seen it all, from pandemics to wars, gas prices to formula shortages, one can’t help but live on edge with the constant thoughts of, “what is the world coming to?” But luckily, in this issue of Bay Magazine, we are reminded of the unwavering splendor and steadfastness that our community is built on. The willingness to help a neighbor, to share one’s lives and talents with another, to enhance each other’s lives, are the fibers that keep the fabric of our community resilient and everlasting. From the various number of charities fighting hunger and volunteering for senior living care and isolation, to the plethora of artists and creators who add wonder, beauty and charm to our world—this issue is for you. To the businesses who work tirelessly delivering, producing, providing for our community, we thank you. To the residents and visitors who synergistically utilize these services, appreciate their work, value the LBI culture and ethos— this issue is for you, as well. May we all welcome this upcoming summer season in stride, and utilize our precious moments on this tiny barrier island as a time for gratitude, connection and spending time with the ones we love. For some, their time on LBI is limited, for others, it is year-long. No matter which category you fall under, we wish everyone an amazing 2022 summer season. The

Founders

12 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Photo by Alyssa Grignolo Winner of the Southern Regional High School Photo Scholarship Sponsored by Bay Magazine

SERENITY DESIGN Everything for the Home of your Dreams

FURNITURE | TILE | ART LIGHTING | RUGS | ACCESSORIES

Shoppe Open Year Round 1102 Long Beach Boulevard Ship Bottom, NJ 609.494.5162 | serenitydesignlbi.com bay-magazine.com 13

NJ ARCH LIC# 21AI01038700 NJ PLANNING LIC# 33LI00413700 BLDR REG# 13VH04273700

14 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

THE JERSEY SHORE’S #1 DESIGN-BUILD FIRM SINCE 1990

Build with an Architect™ 342 W. 9TH STREET, SHIP BOTTOM 609.361.0011 WWW.PAGNOTTA.COM

bay-magazine.com 15

16 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

OPEN HOUSE

LIVES UP TO THE hype Written by Lisa Simek

Photos by John Martinelli

Designing homes with a luxurious front row seat to panoramic ocean views is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding experiences a homebuilder may take on. For one local architectural design-build firm, Michael Pagnotta Architecture+ Construction, designing and creating oceanfront homes is what they enjoy working on most when it comes to the plethora of fabulous projects they have the opportunity to develop on Long Beach Island. The challenges of building an oceanfront home are many, but the prime directive will always be how to take advantage of potential views while creating a wide-open plan that is still able accommodate as many people as possible. Pair this feat with the physical challenges of building a home that will need to resist the harsh coastal environment—and somehow stay dry in a place where it rains sideways and upside down at times—the success of this feat becomes that much more worthwhile. The fascinating dichotomy of an oceanfront home is that it needs to be solid enough to withstand incredibly strong winds, yet hollow enough (in just the right places) to be able to allow flood waters to pass through with as little damage as possible. Since exterior materials will be sand-blasted and need to survive in a high-humidity/high moisture setting, they too need to be virtually indestructible while appearing to be low-maintenance and able to last for years in this environment with little to no care. Oftentimes, these goals are met by utilizing Nu-Cedar cellular PVC shingles with stainless steel fasteners and all-fiberglass decks and roofing, and exterior trim and outdoor shower construction is typically also crafted from solid PVC materials. As a builder, these physical challenges can be met through best practice techniques and highest quality materials coupled with many years of experience in building coastal homes, something Pagnotta and team possess with their multi-decades long success building on Long Beach Island. As an architect, these challenges need to be met while working on extremely limited sites with undersized “allowable footprints” that are more often than not restricted by CAFRA regulations. As a design-build firm with accessibility to both facets of the homebuilding equation, maximizing these limited sites is how Pagnotta and team built their reputation on LBI.

bay-magazine.com 17

OPEN HOUSE

As the final element under their one-stop-shop homebuilding reputation, Pagnotta’s firm’s interior design department completed the home and worked with a color palette of natural hues to complement its oceanfront setting. Wide plank engineered oak flooring is used throughout the home, and the home is designed to be casual and comfortable in many settings, from intimate spaces to large communal gatherings.

They are able to take full advantage of a site’s natural attributes (views, solar exposure, breezes and vegetation) while arriving at design solutions that yield the most efficient floorplans allowed by zoning and CAFRA regulations. In this example of an oceanfront home, Pagnotta’s team was limited to rebuilding a new home withing the confines of an “existing footprint.” Three levels of living space were achieved which allowed for 6 bedrooms, 4 and ½ baths and three living spaces all within a 24’ wide footprint. Through the careful distribution of heights—the main living level has ceilings soaring over 10-feet tall— incredible views were made possible from nearly every vantage point within the home. Even where the hot tub sits comfortably on the roof, made sure to offer views of the bay, ocean and even Atlantic City in the views directly to the south.

18 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

As a completed project, this home “checks all the boxes”. It satisfies all of the design and structural challenges, while boasting a soft contemporary exterior that will age well over the years. The home was constructed through a period of incredible uncertainty—during the days of early covid, when manpower was limited to one truck per site per day—yet the result is impeccable. Although though those difficult days seem so long ago, new eras bring new problems—as builders now are tasked to complete homes with a new set of challenges: runaway inflation and supply chain shortages and delays. Without a doubt in the near future, there will be stories of these present-day homes being constructed despite their challenges as well. But if there’s one thing we all know, it is that the people of LBI are a very resilient lot.

bay-magazine.com 19

20 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Leadership of a national lender. Dedication of a local partner. usbank.com/mortgage

Jeffrey Schneider Senior Loan Officer Long Beach Island office: 908-991-4870 cell: 908-268-6159 jeffrey.schneider@usbank.com NMLS # 860846

To learn more, visit my mortgage loan officer webpage.

Get the personalized mortgage service and step-by-step guidance you deserve, backed by the strength and solutions U.S. Bank offers: – U.S. Bank lending available in all 50 states – Loan options for your needs to buy, build or borrow – Conventional fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages – Jumbo loans with increased lending limits – FHA and VA mortgages available

Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage, home equity and credit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2022 U.S. Bank bay-magazine.com 21

OPEN HOUSE

More Than Advice Written by Elaine Sisko

According to Mark Reynolds, owner of Mark Reynolds Project Management (MRPM), the design-build division of the Reynolds family of businesses in Manahawkin, the once sleepy little community of LBI has evolved over the years into one of the most sought-after destinations for coastal living on the east coast. So too have the standards for an ideal property changed in the eyes of the buying public. As Reynolds, also a real estate agent affiliated with G. Anderson Agency on LBI, continues, today’s homeowners have become more selective and farsighted in their quest for the ideal property. Given these changing attitudes and expectations, he suggests that the services of a property development consultant may be in the best interest of the discerning homebuyer. Mark Reynolds, a seasoned business owner for over 40 years, is considered one of the most experienced professionals on LBI as it relates to the lay of the land and its unique environmental characteristics. He has become proficient in the myriad of complex building and zoning codes of each diverse townships that makes up this remarkable island-- from the historic district of Beach Haven to the oversized properties that comprise the north end. Assembling a core group of licensed professionals of equal repute—surveying and mechanical engineers, DEP consultants, architects and construction sub-contractors—has allowed Reynolds to not only push the boundaries for property expansion but offer unparalleled consulting advise to the preceptive homeowner. For the consultant, the home-buying experience begins with finding the perfect piece of real estate that checks off all the wants and needs of

22 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

the prospective client. When partnering with Mark Reynolds from concept to completion, however, many of the unknow variables that typically arise after a property is purchased can be discovered during the initial stages of the buying process. By applying both the concrete and intangible criteria important to the client into a mathematical formula, many properties under consideration can be ruled out early in the process due to their inability to fulfill the overall objectives for the project. This unique toolset combined with an instinctive knowledge garnered from years of experience, have been put to good use on Reynolds latest and on-going design-build project—a 25,000 square foot property in Loveladies surrounded on 3-sides by 347 linear feet of waterfront bulkhead. Initially retained for his consulting services, Mark Reynolds was able to determine the development potential of this unique property and establish it’s worth in just 48 hours. This rapid assessment allowed the clients to move forward with the property purchase without delay. With the intention to raze the existing building and start anew, the property first needed to be assessed by the State Department of Environmental Protection (NJ-DEP) and awarded permission for development. Reynolds, partnering with an environmental consultant, prepared a State DEP permit which, once awarded, established the guidelines for waterfront expansion. Taking full advantage of all State rules and regulations governing bulkhead and dock allowances, the Reynolds team was able to extend a new bulkhead construction outward by 2-feet on three sides. Larger upper

bay-magazine.com 23

OPEN HOUSE

docks and extended lower docks, boat and jet ski lifts and mooring locations with the ability to accommodate boat sizes upward of 50-feet were all skillfully designed—pushing the boundaries of property size and development. Approval permits in hand, Reynolds was able to match the homeowners with an architect who best complemented their ideas, lifestyle, design and architectural tastes for the new home construction. Happening simultaneously, the MRPM team began to create 3-dimensional conceptual plans for the property as a whole including not only the house footprint but a swimming pool, cabana, outdoor showers, dock configurations, parking areas, outdoor kitchen, firepit, decks and patios as well. Once the initial 2-dimensional architectural plan for the new home was finalized, the Reynolds team converted the plans into a 3-dimensional rendering facilitating the selections of siding and roofing material choices, deck configurations, 24 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

stair locations and interior floor plan alterations. These rendering also simplified the communication process between homeowner and architect, providing a clear and concise visual aid to references their changes and feedback for the new home design. With architectural plans and State DPE permits finalized, building permits are currently being prepared for Long Beach Township Building and Zoning Department processing. It is with great confidence and satisfaction, that Mark Reynolds proudly states that the project is just days away from breaking ground. By combining an open and consistent dialog with homeowners and consultants alike along with innovative ideas that pushed the boundaries of property development, Mark Reynolds and his MRPM team have established the framework for this dream home and property to be fully realized—a partnership certain to provide a lifetime of happy memories for this deserving family.

bay-magazine.com 25

LET’S BUILD A HOME DELIVERING RELAXING C O A S TA L E S C A P E S

T O L B I FA M I L I E S F O R O V E R 4 0 Y E A R S . O U R C L I E N T- C E N T E R E D T E A M W I L L WORK WITH YOU FROM DESIGN TO C O M P L E T I O N A N D B E YO N D. NJ REGISTERED BUILDER LICENSE #042471/HIC#13VH04329200

26 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Thomas J. Keller AWARD WINNING

C U S T O M E R S AT I S FA C T I O N A N D ONGOING BUILDING EXCELLENCE

BUILDING CONTRACTOR LLC 4 N . L O N G B E A C H B LV D . S U R F C I T Y, N J 609.494.2215 | THOMASJKELLER.COM

OPEN HOUSE

PROPOSED POOL WITH RAISED SPA

RAISED PATIO AND FIREPIT

JUNIPER 'MT. BATTEN ( 10 ) 19'

HOSTA 'FRANCEE ( 6 )

CRAPE MYRTLE 'MUSKOGEE ( 7 )

0" SALVIA 'CARADONNA ( 8 )

HYDRANGEA 'ENDLESS SUMMER ( 15 )

POOL AREA PATIO CATMINT 'WALKERS LOW ( 8 ) OUTDOOR SHOWER

STEPPING STONE WALKWAY

RESIDENCE Scale: 1/8" = 1 ft

The

STEPS CONCEPTUAL LANDSCAPE PLAN

Written By Carolyn Mijal

The team at David Ash knows that the design is in the details and like all home improvement projects planning is essential; but what makes the David Ash process so unique? The personalized and advanced approach that is given to each and every client combined with the use of the latest technologies in landscape design makes all the difference. There are nine essential steps in the David Ash process each one building upon the one before it, resulting in not only beautifully executed projects but a lasting relationship as well. Step 1: First Appointment / Consultation The very first step is booking the appointment to meet with David Ash. During this appointment is where the discovery stage happens. Information such as the

28 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

client’s contact information, property information and a brief overview of what the client is looking to achieve, frames the basic outline for David Ash. This outline helps frame the entire project, ensuring that the final design remains true to what the client wants. The second component to the consultation is the property analysis. “Before we even get to the appointment, we know more about the property and can determine whether or not it will be a good fit for both parties,” said David “We will take a look at zoning allowances and limits to determine what work we would actually be able to do on the property given the local ordinances set in place by the town and so on.” This not only ensures that a project is possible it also ensure that what the client’s wants are attainable.

Step 2: Design Agreement After the initial consultation appointment the team at David Ash will set up a design agreement with the client. This is a commitment from the client that they will go through the design process with David Ash. Essentially the design agreement is a contract that spells out the details of what is included when a client receives a design from David Ash. Step 3: 3D/2D Conceptual Design Step three is the fun part of the pro cess. It is where traditional methods of landscape design and technology blend to take the vision from the client and David Ash and start to build the reality. “This truly is the stage were we pull the client’s wants and wishes together with our knowledge and expertise to create a dream design for the client” said David. David Ash and his team provide complete 2D and 3D design to help clients visualize how their new landscape/pool will appear in a real time visual image. This means they can show a client what their backyard will look like at 1:00pm on July 4th 2021, even the way the sun will hit the property during that time. The program that they use is so sophisticated it can bridge the visual gap by showing clients their own home with the plants fully-grown. How the hardscapes textures and colors will appear when they are finished and any structures such as kitchens, firepits, and seating areas; the backyard of their dreams coming to life before their eyes. Step 4: Design Review After the client receives the design and has time to review it on their

own, David Ash then sets up an appointment to review the project with the client. The reason for this is to ensure that the client’s wants are aligned with the designs presented. Clients have the ability to meet with David in the David Ash showroom or the comfort of their own home (current social distancing precautions are practiced in both settings). Together David and the client review the entire project and with a red pen in hand make any desired changes and then finalize the design. A full review of the project cost based on the full design happens as well to ensue that the project is well within the client’s budget. Step 5: Project Estimate When all of the information has been finalized and gathered and updated within the system, David Ash and his team put together pricing and options for the client to review. “We will factor in all of the details the client is looking for and the material selections, which drive the cost of the estimate,” said David. Step 6: Finalize Design/ Contract Review The phrase “measure twice and cut once” rings true throughout the entire process with David Ash. The goal is to ensure that the project from start to finish is completely transparent and exactly what the client wants. At this stage the client and David review and finalize all changes that have been made to the design thus far. They also review the estimate to ensure that David and his team have included everything the client desires. At this point David and his team will finalize and execute the contract sending all documentation over to the client so they can sign and approve the property designs. bay-magazine.com 29

Step 7: Engineering and Permits Like any home improvement project having to work with local municipalities is not the most pleasant experience. Fortunately for clients who work David Ash, that part of the process is covered. The permit expediter will keep the client up to date all the way through the permitting process. They work with the town directly to be sure that all the work preformed at the home is up to code and in compliance with local ordinances.

there to answer any and all questions, assist with communication and project updates as well as keep the client informed every step of the way. From start to finish they are there for the client and truly only a call or email away. “You will see friendly faces at your property working hard to bring the vision to life right up until the last detail is complete” David said “Upon job completion, a final walkthrough will be conducted to be sure every last detail is just perfect.”

Step 8: Project Starts!

Step 9: Relationship Continues

After signing, the client will be assigned a project coordinator/ advocate who will work with them throughout the entirety of their project. The project coordinator is

David Ash truly sums up this step by explaining the importance of maintaining an excellent client relationship. “We love to maintain the relationship with the client

30 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

for as long as they own the home. Even after your job is complete, we will offer to continue maintenance on your landscaping and pool throughout the seasons. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our work and keeping up the relationship with continued maintenance is a perfect way to ensure your property is looking it’s best for years to come.” David Ash and team take pride in each and every client’s home they are privileged to work on. The relationship formed is a lasting one where there are endless possibilities and collaborations that David Ash, his team and the clients can create. With limited possibilities it is no wonder that clients keep coming back and refer their friends and families to the David Ash experience, which is truly one of a kind.

32 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 33

OPEN HOUSE

MAXIMIZING VALUE ON LBI Written by Carolyn Mijal

As we sit in his office at 8:30 AM on a Saturday morning for this interview, I asked him have you been waiting long.... He chuckled. Garabedian generally starts his day by 4:30 AM each morning in the office. One of the many things that he contributes to his successful growth over the past 5 years on LBI. As a fellow early bird, I understand the mediative qualities of starting the day when the world is still asleep. By the time 7: 30 AM rolls into 9:00 AM, Garabedian’s phone begins to ring nonstop until the end of the day. The need to get all the scheduling, contracts, and correspondences out is paramount. “When it comes to my businesses, I’m all in” Garabedian said. How has the company grown to both a real estate brokerage office based in Surf City and a building office in Ship Bottom in such a short period of time? Garabedian suggests it’s his emphasis on “Value” and “Communication.” With both the brokerage

34 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

and building company, delivering value to the client while constantly communicating should be the number one goal. Garabedian Realty Group currently operates with a handful of select agents that share the same core beliefs as its founder. It is about giving the client the maximum amount of resources to deliver the highest value on their property. That goes the same when working with a buyer and seeking that select property. With offices in both North Jersey as well as LBI, this ensures his clients maximum exposure for sellers and buyers. Something other local offices do not have. Garabedian’s plan is to open another location on LBI this fall. Garabedian Building Company “3GS Equities LLC” began as request from a customer. After a client had viewed and followed the building process of a spec home that was already sold, they asked us would

we consider custom building their home. Almost 15 custom homes later and several more contract for the fall, Garabedian Building Company was born. With design, selection specialists, industry leading sub-contractors all under one roof and a slightly different approach to running the project than the traditional builder; “This allows us to have constant communication with our clients and allows the building process to be enjoyable, while staying on budget, and on schedule despite the hectic times we all live in today. When you have some of the largest general contractors in the state and a CEO of a large nationwide architectural firm choosing your company to construct their home... we must be doing it right” Garabedian said. Taking a moment to sit with Matt is a memorable experience, nicknamed “The Shark” by one of his clients it is not hard to see why. Matt’s determination and passion for his business and clients is evident from the moment you meet him. The pride he takes in all of his work to not only do the job but do it with accuracy and efficiency is outstanding. His homes speak for themselves. With his million-dollar smile and unwavering determination he is all grit and all heart.

“Those who have worked with Matt know first-hand the standard of excellence he brings with him to each and every project.” Paul Winslow has worked with him on several occasions and can attest to Matt’s standard. “ My experience in working with Matt has been from all three aspects of the business: buying, selling and building. He is a consummate professional with extensive experience which has yielded outstanding results.” When working with Garabedian, the real value is having a broker and builder together as your partner. Whether Selling, Buying, or Building, having all these assets at your exposure only allows for a blueprint for success. Many entrepreneurs focus on building companies in many different spaces, I focus mine all on real estate. I was born into a real estate family and want to be the best option for our clients. “Matt is an extremely likeable guy. His professionalism, knowledge, and ability to think on his feet makes him an asset to work with. He is receptive to new ideas and partners with each and every one of his clients and partners to get the job done. He knows how to handle situations quickly and efficiently” said the partners at DNF1 LLC. bay-magazine.com 35

RENT ME

The DESIGN MAGAZINE for Long Beach Island OPEN HOUSE magazine is the top resource for consumers who want to tap into design and architecture communities in the Long Beach Island and surrounding area.

OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE LONG BEACH ISLAND HOME DESIGN MAGAZINE

I N T E R I O R

YOUR HOUSE. ONE HOUR.*

LONG BEACH ISLAND HOME DESIGN MAGAZINE

E X T E R I O R

S P R I N G

D E S I G N

I N T E R I O R

2 0 1 7 O P E N H O U S E M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 017

A N D

E X T E R I O R

S P R I N G

D E S I G N

2 0 2 0

OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE LONG BEACH ISLAND’S HOME DESIGN MAGAZINE

LONG BEACH ISLAND HOME DESIGN MAGAZINE

I N T E R I O R

E X T E R I O R

D E S I G N

I N T E R I O R

A N D

E X T E R I O R

D E S I G N

“Ask the Decorator” in person. Get a professional opinion on those nagging questions you might have about your home: Space Planning, Color Palette, Accessorizing, Whatever! You get the answers you want from an expert (member ASID). You pay me. I leave...and go directly to Sink’R Swim to add to my Tommy Bahama Shirt Collection. Right, Sam?

S P R I N G S P R I N G

2 0 1 8 OPEN HOUSE MAGAZINE

2 0 2 1

OPEN HOUSE MAGAZINE

OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE LONG BEACH ISLAND HOME DESIGN MAGAZINE

I N T E R I O R

A N D

LONG BEACH ISLAND’S HOME DESIGN MAGAZINE

E X T E R I O R

D E S I G N

I N T E R I O R

A N D

E X T E R I O R

D E S I G N

*CALL OFFICE FOR RIDICULOUSLY LOW RATE!

THOM SWEENEY INTERIORS Gunning River Mall

849 West Bay Avenue Barnegat, New Jersey 08005 609.622.2950

36 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

S P R I N G

2 0 1 9

S P R I N G OPEN HOUSE MAGAZINE

2 0 2 2

For Advertising, Submissions, and General Inquires Contact gary@bay-mag.com

OPEN HOUSE MAGAZINE

111

NJ Home Improvement Contractor | License # 13H02727800 New Home Warranty Registered Builder | License # 039844

OPEN HOUSE MAGAZINE

111

bay-magazine.com 37

OPEN HOUSE

Ask

THE DECORATOR Q & A with Thom Sweeney

Photo by John Martinelli

Thom Sweeney has more than 35 years of interior design experience and is member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). His company, Thom Sweeney Interiors, has a 3,000 sq ft showroom that houses furniture, textiles, hand-picked accessories (not to mention a plethora of catalogues that clients can browse through)— everything needed to select just the right design element to configure the perfect wall, table or floor. A refined designer with a well-trained eye, his primary goal is to bring a space to life with the most stunning, curated finishing touches that pull together an exquisite design vision. Below, two Bay Magazine reader asks Thom popular design questions with all-too-familiar themes:

Q. We have a beautiful, large brown three-piece entertainment center. Since I want to freshen up the look of the house, would you suggest painting it a light color? -Mary Ann, Surf City A. As you undoubtedly know Mary Ann, “beauty” is in the eye of the beholder. As far as entertainment centers are concerned, well, let’s just say they are from a previous era, and, therefore, no matter what color you paint it—it’s STILL going to be the white elephant in the room. Your home will look much fresher if you get rid of the pachyderm, mount the TV on the wall, and put that enormous amount of space that you have now reclaimed to better use. You’re very welcome. Q. Is wallpaper making a comeback? My wife says she wants to use it, but frankly I’ve gotten cold feet at the thought of doing it. Your thoughts? -Richard, North Beach A. First of all, wallpaper never left. This is especially so with interior designers who have access to a huge variety of what, we, in the trade, call wallcovering. You see, it is more than just paper. People generally conjure up visions of wallpaper as the colorful cabbage roses that once graced Grandma’s dining room, or the calico border in your Aunt Edna’s bedroom (Remember paper borders, Richard? Has that put a chill down your spine?). Wallcovering is wildly diverse. It can be 38 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

grass cloth (real or vinyl), wood veneer, metallics, wovens, linens or a leather or wood look of embossed vinyl. It can be a simple striped wallcovering hung horizontally for a dramatic effect. (Did you see how we used it at Hotel LBI in the hallway leading to SALT restaurant?) This technique can be used on a bed wall, with the other three walls painted a color to match one of the stripes. It adds a designer touch to any room. Think of using vinyl wood wallcovering on the ceiling, which we also did on the Lobby ceiling at the Hotel. The added texture achieved is enormous, and you wouldn’t be able to get that from paint. Why not try a vinyl burlap under the chair rail in your family room to add color and protection to the walls in those areas of highest activity. The material vinyl is so practical for bathrooms and powder rooms for obvious reasons. So, you see, Richard, wallcovering can do a lot for you! Plus, we haven’t even talked about murals. One of our clients is a Yankee fan with tons of sports memorabilia. So, for him we found a giant blueprint of Yankee Stadium for the wall behind his enormous sectional—Dynamite in Yankee Blue! We installed a stunning mural of Pebble Beach for another client’s Golf Simulator Room. I could go on all day about the endless amount of drama that wallcoverings can add to your home. So, throw away your paint roller, and thaw out those “cold feet,” Richard. This designer is siding with your wife’s instincts in this case.

Twin Glass Company SOUTH JERSEY’S LARGEST FRAMELESS SHOWER DOOR SHOWROOM

SHOWER DOORS | COMMERCIAL GLASS | GLASS RAILINGS ALUMINUM DOORS & WINDOWS | MIRRORS ALL GLASS ENTRANCE | SPECIALTY GLASS

SHOWROOMS 601 NJ-72, BEACH HAVEN WEST, NJ LBI@TWINGLASS.NET | 609.488.2521 3164 FIRE RD EGG HARBOR TWP, NJ INFO@TWINGLASS.NET | 609.645.8834

Serving New Jersey for over 75 Years! Est. 1946 www.TwinGlassCompany.com bay-magazine.com 39

40 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

A DYNAMIC EVOLUTION OF TRANSITIONAL DESIGN As experts in the homebuilding industry, Walters offers one stop shopping with in-house real estate, architecture and custom home services at the Jersey Shore.

“The pandemic has changed the way people live in their homes,” said Matthew Gaudet-Walters, Director of Business Development for Walters. “Everyone wants everything in their space and designs are more catered towards people having a full ecosystem on their property. It is an evolution of their lifestyle at the beach.”

bay-magazine.com 41

As experts in the homebuilding industry, Walters meets homebuyers where they are by offering one-stop shopping with in-house real estate, architecture and custom home services. “This gives us the opportunity to truly build relationships with our homebuyers in order to build the home they’ve always wanted,” said Gaudet-Walters. “Over the last few years, we have connected to our homebuyers in new and different ways and promise to continue to do our part in making their homebuying dreams a reality in whatever way they feel the most comfortable – whether that be in-person, over the phone or virtually. That has always been, and will continue to be, what inspires so many families to build with Walters.” In many cases, the pandemic has accelerated design trends that were already occurring, according to Arnold Boyle, AIA, Walters Architecture, LLC. “In other cases, the pandemic prompted individuals to rethink the ways in which new home designs can positively impact their lives,” said Boyle. “We have found that homebuyers were searching for opportunities to use their spaces in different ways that would help balance their work-at-home life. As a result, they are customizing their homes more and more. It’s my job to listen to their wishes and guide them through the process. It’s quite a dynamic thing.” The Walters Architectural division continues to assess and reinvent home designs based on what the public desires to see in their future homes. “Our goal is to help you ‘future-proof’ your home by personalizing it to make it more in line with how you live now as opposed to how you lived pre-pandemic,” Boyle adds. In the beginning of the pandemic, everyone absolutely needed a home office, according to Boyle. “Today, everyone still wants a dedicated home office, but the size is not as big as previously requested,” he said. “Clients are also asking for smart houses and smart home technology, as well as outdoor living and entertaining spaces, decks, balconies, and dual-purpose living spaces 42 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022 (flex rooms).”

Whether it be a primary residence, second home, future retirement home or investment property, Walters helps homebuyers take full advantage of every part of their property. The mechanical elements are also important. “All of our homes are ENERGY STAR® certified, which enable for better air flow and circulation, as well as lower operational costs and long-term savings,” GaudetWalters said. “We incorporate high thermal performance windows, advanced framing techniques, tankless hot water heaters, efficient air conditioning, high efficiency forced hot air gas furnaces and fiberglass insulation. This gives our homebuyer peace of mind as they enjoy their new home for many years to come.”

“We personally walk our clients through every step of the process to ensure they are getting a home that is livable, unique and exactly the way they envisioned it be.” – JANELLE WELCH, I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R F O R WA LT E R S

At their first meeting, Welch will ask homebuyers to think about the different aspects of their previous homes in terms of spaces that were either overutilized or underwhelmed. “Our goal is to create floorplans that offer spaces that are frequently utilized,” she said. “We also love to see inspiration photos to assess styles, aesthetics and small details.” When looking at most of the home designs that Walters creates along the Jersey Shore, Welch sees most homebuyers opting for transitional designs. “This is a delicate mix of modern and traditional touches in the home,” she said. “Transitional design bridges the gap without feeling too classic or stark.” Looking to the future, the demand for housing remains high. “With an extremely low inventory of available homes on the market and historically low interest rates, the desire for new homes – especially new construction homes – is stronger than ever,” said Gaudet-Walters. “Whether you prefer a two- or three-story home, a traditional shore colonial that is both versatile and symmetrical, or a contemporary marvel with clean lines and a connection to the outdoors, your home should reflect your lifestyle and personal preferences – both now and in the future.”

Unlike other homebuilders, Walters does not offer preset packages with options. “Every home is customized for each client,” said Janelle Welch, Interior Designer for Walters. “We are not a production building company. We personally walk our clients through every step of the process to ensure they are getting a home that is livable, unique and exactly the way they envisioned it be.”

About Walters Walters has been building quality homes at the Jersey Shore since 1984. The company offers three divisions, Architecture, Custom Homes and Realty, to offer all-inclusive services that seamlessly bring a homebuyer’s dream vision to reality. Walters Architecture is a completely complimentary service that allows homebuyers to work with in-house architects to design the perfect home with the latest technology and quality building materials. Walters Realty offers full-service brokerage experts that help homebuyers find the right homesite depending on their desired location. Walters Custom Homes offers newly designed custom home plans that help homebuyers through the homebuilding process. Every custom home built by Walters meets or exceeds the energy efficiency requirements for ENERGY STAR® certification. Walters is located at 500 Barnegat Boulevard North, Building 400, Barnegat, NJ 08005. To learn more, call 609.770.6257 or visit waltershomes.com. bay-magazine.com 43

44 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

OPEN HOUSE

Beyond Seashells & Sailboats Written by Lisa Simek

Coastal interior design may take on many different forms and fashions, from Mediterranean-inspired textures to tropical exotic-themed plants, or contemporary crisp whites to classic, rustic earthy tones. No matter what the design direction, it’s safe to say that all beach homes share that open and airy aesthetic, making coastal designing more reminiscent of a summer holiday than any other design style. Coastal décor evokes a feeling of being near the water, bringing the relaxed and laidback vibe of seaside living into everyday life, and this is why it has consistently been so popular for generations. While classic coastal motifs in fabrics, wall art and area rugs don’t ever go out of style, it is possible to achieve a beachy look for those looking for more subtle design elements that still evoke beach. Seashell prints, sailboat fabrics, flip flop trinkets, and coral embellished pillows are not the only thing that can make a design have that coastal feel. If you are looking to have the nautical design influence without your décor screaming “beach,” there is a way to get a sophisticated coastal feel, and the designers at Oskar Huber Furniture & Design of Ship Bottom are experts in skillfully achieving this look.

bay-magazine.com 45

OPEN HOUSE

Pro Tip #1

Choose Color Wisely. The designers at Oskar Huber urge homeowners to focus on color, reflective objects and natural fibers to tap into the spirit of the beach without being too obvious. You want to keep the overall concept of the design light. Trends in color palettes should not only remain bright, but earthy tones with accents of color (keeping color palettes minimal) and playing with textures adds the depth and warmth needed to truly pull together a space.

46 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Pro Tip #2

Less is more. Balance in design is key, and when it comes to coastal décor, the Oskar Huber design team recommends choosing neutrals for your larger pieces (think tables, sofas, chairs) and accessorizing them accordingly. They suggest incorporating details like tone-on-tone stripes, natural fiber rugs, blue-and-white hued pillows, grass cloth covered decorative boxes, sea glass beads, and bamboo photo frames to help offer that sea-inspired feel without relying on the classic seashells and sailboats. The key to pulling off a chic and not heavy look is making sure to mix pieces of different sizing and scale working off the same neutral color palette.

Pro Tip #3

Don’t overthink it. Coastal design is all about creating a cool and effortless vibe. Homeowners should consider a variety of colors inspired by the sky, sand, and sea mixed with natural elements of wood, rattan and seagrass— the options are endless in terms of creativity. Pieces that are organic in form and double as functional furniture are always great coastal options.

Pro Tip #4

Its OK to add color. Although the experts said to focus on earthy tones above, this is mainly directed at your larger, permanent design features such as furniture. This will give you a sophisticated coastal design base, and then adding in color via smaller items such as sea glass beads, artwork on the walls, and pillows on the sofa or bed will give just the right amount of pops of color to polish the space off with finishing touches. The design team all agrees that you can never go wrong with blue, and many of the latest pieces in the Oskar Huber showroom were inspired by the colors of the ocean, beautiful grays, washedout blues, and whites. At Oskar Huber, designers are always available to help clients with their homes and their style. From whimsical coastal designs that include the classic seashells, sailboats and coral scenes to sophisticated and elegant coastal settings, when you walk into Oskar Huber, one can think of their furniture as an artist’s blank canvas—their designers help you discover your beach house’s design potential. They help you personalize your home to your taste as well as how you use and function within the space. For more information or to connect with an Oskar Huber interior designer, visit OskarHuber.com or visit their showroom located at 101 W. 8th Street in Ship Bottom.

bay-magazine.com 47

Cleaning Service LBI’S PREMIER CLEANING COMPANY, OPEN YEAR ROUND. FAMILY | VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED FOR 10 YEARS

CALL TODAY! 609.342.0208 518 CENTRAL AVE. SHIP BOTTOM DRILLSERGEANTCLEANING.COM INFO@DRILLSERGEANTCLEANING.COM

CLEANING SERVICE

Enjoy your Freshly Painted & Cleaned Home CALL TODAY! 609.342.0208

For your Consultation

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM | 518 CENTRAL AVE. SHIP BOTTOM 48 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

LARGE SELECTION IN-STOCK OR YOUR CUSTOM ORDER DELIVERED IN AS FEW AS 12 WEEKS* *SEE STORE FOR DETAILS

UNMATCHED COASTAL CHOICES.

Our Ship Bottom NJ (Long Beach Island) store is your destination for everything coastal. Bring the sounds of the ocean, the warmth of sun and your beach memories inside with our coastal style furniture and accents.

Ship Bottom NJ / 609-494-8127 101 W 8th St, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008 Mon - Sat 9-6. Sun 10-4. Also in Southampton, PA oskarhuber.com bay-magazine.com 49

A Comfortable & Beautiful Home Starts

Between the Sheets Written By Ryan Gallagher

Photos By Eric Hance

As you pass down Central Avenue in Ship Bottom, you will certainly notice Between the Sheets. While the store has been in the Shore community for over 30 years, the newly remodeled location is now even more inviting. The interior design firm helps its clients develop beautiful, inviting, and of course, functional home interiors. While many customers initially stop in the store to select lovely and luxurious bedroom 50 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

linens, they quickly learn what other services might be of interest to them. Clients meet with designers to help them achieve an opulent yet cozy shore home design. “We take great pride in keeping our design staff well-educated on the latest linen and home furnishing collections. Our designers select the perfect linens to complement the unique design choices for every client,” says Kristin Nissen, Co-Founder of Between the

OPEN HOUSE

Sheets. “Humans spend a third of their lives in bed; that experience should be delicious.” Between the Sheets’ team of retail professionals and designers specialize in projects for the whole home. MOST RECENT SUCCESS For 30 years, Founders and Owners Kristin Nissen and Maryann Schmid have advised, consulted, designed, and delivered for their clients on LBI, many of whom are from Philadelphia, North Jersey, and New York, and own summer homes on the well-known island. Schmid recently worked with clients to bring their distinct vision to life in their luxurious island condo. The final product: a classic coastal, navy and white decor, complete with white sheers billowing in the ocean breeze. Schmid says, “It was wonderful to work with the clients ,meet their goals and vision for their spaces.” “This design project was all about great spatial planning.” explained Ashley Sbailo, a Senior Interior Designer at the company. “Furniture must be both beautiful and functional, working well in each unique space,” she explains. “It must fit the location as well as the homeowner.” bay-magazine.com 51

OPEN HOUSE

“We use many different resources to get the right home furnishings for each project,” said Sbailo. “It is our job as designers to create cohesive spaces that are well thought out. Our designers focus on each project to create spaces that flow together seamlessly.” Between the Sheets takes pride in their long-term relationships with their vendors which translates into resourcing the best home furnishings for their clients. “Do you have children? Do you have pets? Frequent guests? These are the standard questions we cover,” said Sbailo. “We want to know how the furniture is going to be used. And from there, we utilize all of our resources to see what makes the most sense.” Product procurement is also handled completely by the designers, while the office staff handles the challenging logistics around delivery schedules to get everything delivered for their clients. Sbailo continues, “At the end of the day, we’re on the same team as the client. We just want to give clients the home of their dreams.”

52 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

30 years in Business In 1983, Maryann Schmid and Kristin Nissen found themselves in the same dorm room at Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science (current day Jefferson University). By 1992, the two were business partners, opening up shop on LBI. Today, the two, and their growing team welcome recent additions, Ann Marie Yorke, a senior designer; and coming back for her third summer as an interior design intern, Angelena Boeta. This fall, Maryann Schmid and Kristin Nissen will celebrate Between the Sheets’ thirtieth year.

msparkphoto@gmail.com msparkphoto.com 609-389-9541

A Higher Standard.

Interior Design • Home Furnishings • Luxury Linens Lighting • Window Treatments

1012 Central Ave, Ship Bottom | 609.361.9297 betweenthesheetsnj.com | info@betweenthesheetsnj.com

bay-magazine.com 53

2 Generations Selling LBI’s Finest Homes for 40 years... CALL COWLES 609-492-1300 4 Aggressive, professional marketing of your property. 4 Maximum exposure to prospective Buyers. 4 Expertise in handling all aspects of your real estate transaction. 4 Personalized one-on-one service.

David Cowles Broker/REALTOR 609.290.0779

54 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Michael Cowles REALTOR 609.290.3680

Build with an Architect ™

NJ ARCH LIC# 21AI01038700 NJ PLANNING LIC# 33LI00413700 BLDR REG# 13VH04273700

Jersey Shore’s #1 Premier Design-Build Firm Since 1990

342 W. 9th Street ~ Ship Bottom NJ 08008 (609) 361-0011 www.pagnotta.com

bay-magazine.com 55

The First Thing We Build Is A Relationship

West Creek, NJ | (609) 342-6000 JSProConstruction.com Registered Builder 046441 HIC Lic# 13VH04124900 56 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 57

58 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

OPEN HOUSE

THE JOURNEY Interview by Jessica Scangarello Photos By Ann Coen Photography

“Owning and operating a landscaping company on Long Beach Island, NJ wasn’t something I ever could have imagined would be part of my journey, but life has an interesting way of leading you in unexpected directions. After living here year-round for over a decade and working in a new environment, it has been fun to reflect on how our family has arrived where we are. The Scangarello family has had a presence on the island for many years, witnessing many of the transformations the island has been through. Susan and Tom Scangarello Sr. purchased Bay Avenue Plant Company, then a garden center on Bay Avenue in Manahawkin, over 20 years ago. After Hurricane Sandy, Tom Jr. and I were able to make the leap to become its new owners. I had the opportunity to interview my husband, Tom, who runs the day-to-day operations, working tirelessly on his vision for the company’s future, as well as his mother, Susan, who is still very much an integral part in the company – the ultimate plant lady. They shared their thoughts on the old and new days at “The Plant Company,” what they personally enjoy about landscaping, as well as the challenges they have faced as business owners.” Jessica Scangarello

bay-magazine.com 59

OPEN HOUSE

Questions for Susan: What do you miss the most and the least about the old garden center on Bay Avenue in Manahawkin? “I loved going to work every day in that unique environment, surrounded by the beauty of plants and trees. The indoor brick floor, hand crafted stone counter, and wood stove created a welcoming rustic ambiance that I enjoyed. What I miss most, however, are the people - mostly those who worked there. I learned a great deal from many of them who helped me along the way. There was camaraderie among the workers and a shared love for the place and the business. We worked hard, but we had fun. It was my home away from home. However, I don’t miss working seven days a week! Nor do I miss dealing with hiring and firing, complications with the trucks, and repairs and maintenance of equipment: all the “fun” things that come with being a business owner.” What is your favorite kind of gardening at home and why? “Because I am a year-round resident on LBI, I have

60 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

the opportunity to incorporate plants for all seasons in my yard. This brings personal pleasure because that opportunity doesn’t exist often when landscaping for customers who are only here in the summer months. My small gardening space includes early bloomers like PJM Rhododendron, Sea Thrift, Peony, and German Iris. I have late summer/early fall bloomers such as Sedum ‘Matrona’ and Solidago (golden rod). My garden also gives me a place to try out new plants to see how they do. For example, last year I planted three of the new reblooming azaleas and discovered they become leggy shrubs and need more water than I am willing to give. In short, my garden provides enjoyment, education, and therapy, under my own time constraints.” What do you enjoy the most when working with Bay Avenue Plant Company now? “I enjoy the satisfaction of watching my son and daughter-in-law grow the business and take it to new levels with the increased services. I continue to enjoy customer contact, client friendships, and I will never stop loving the feeling of making someone happy with the results of our work.”

Questions for Tom: What is one of the hardest challenges you’ve had to face while owning Bay Avenue Plant Company? “Currently, our biggest challenge is making sure we are meeting our customers’ expectations. Landscaping is subjective; every customer has a different idea of what looks good on their property. At the end of the day, my goal is to evenly balance the clients’ vision, while maintaining my own vision for what will work best in each individual space. I want the property owner to love their new landscape, and I also want people to say “Oh, that’s a Bay Avenue Job” when they pass by a property!” What do you enjoy the most about working with Bay Avenue Plant Company? “Right now, our staff! We have such a great group of guys and girls out in the field, in middle management, and in our new Surf City office. I know finding good employees has been hard for most companies out there, and filling entry level positions has been challenging for us as well. However, we currently have some high-quality individuals working for us that really care about

what they are doing and enjoy their work each day. I credit many of our veteran employees, some of whom have been with us for over 20 years, for helping to create a great work culture. They have done a great job in helping to teach our younger staff members.” What is a sustainable landscape? How do you work toward creating sustainable landscapes? “A sustainable landscape on LBI to me is “as God intended it to be.” As we continue to change and develop the small island we live on, the landscape shifts as well. Being aware of the naturalized areas and attempting to do our part in maintaining as much of them as possible should be a consideration as we alter our own landscapes. There are three simple things that you can do to help create a more sustainable landscape. First, try incorporating some native plant material into your project. These plants are readily available to us, and they have already been thriving here for hundreds of years. They help with pollination, bird migration, water filtration, and even more. These plants also generally require less watering and once established, should successfully thrive on their own. Second, try and cut back on the amount of impervious coverage you have on your bay-magazine.com 61

OPEN HOUSE

property. With less paving and building, excess water has a place to go. As it drains, it’s being filtered through the ground before ending up in our waterways. Third, cut back on your pesticides and herbicides. Pesticides and herbicides are very powerful tools, but if used incorrectly or in excess, they can be dangerous and harmful. We try to offer eco-friendly landscape options, such as native plants and permeable paving, whenever possible as sustainability is important to us as a company, and as locals of Long Beach Island.” Susan and Tom answered even more interesting questions; the full article can be found on the Bay Ave Plant Company website at BayAvePlantCo.com. The photos featured here are of the original Bay Avenue Plant Company Garden Center and the new Bay Avenue Plant Company office in Surf City, as well some recent photos of landscape projects done (including a project utilizing native plant material).

62 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

COASTAL LIVING REAL ESTATE GROUP

LocaLLy K nown G LobaLLy connected coastaLivinG . pro

609.492.4444 bay-magazine.com 63

OPEN HOUSE

BRIGHT & Welcoming Written by Susan Field

Photos by John Martinelli

Luxury bed and breakfast gets kitchen makeover to better accommodate food prep for guests, make new innkeepers’ home fresh and modern. When Audrey Cavaco-Raughter and her husband Brian Raughter were given the opportunity to buy The Sandcastle: a Luxury Bayfront Bed & Breakfast, 710 Bayview Ave. in Barnegat Light, last summer, it took them by surprise. Years earlier, the family had stayed at the four-star bed and breakfast. They enjoyed

64 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

their stay so much, Cavaco-Raughter told the owner to give her a call if she was ever looking to sell. She didn’t expect it to actually happen. The day after receiving a phone call from Nancy Gallimore, the previous owner of 22-years, Cavaco-Raugther drove from her

home in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, 20 minutes outside of Pittsburgh, took a walkthrough of the home, and said to herself, “I can do this.” It was an opportunity she and her family could not pass up. “A chance to move to LBI, own a beautiful home, and run a business? Yes, please!” Cavaco-Raughter says. Within a few months, she left a job she loved, sold her house, and moved her family to the beach. Cavaco-Raughter and her husband opened an LLC with her mother, and sister, who already lived in LBI. The couple began training under Gallimore to take over as innkeepers. It was October. There was six months until the bed and breakfast would open its doors to guests, and Cavaco-Raughter and her husband wanted to make big improvements to their living quarters—especially the kitchen. The room was outdated, dark, and had a giant peninsula that took up too much space and cut off the flow of the room. The kitchen is an important room in a bed and breakfast, as it’s shared by the chef, who cooks and prepares all the meals for the guests. It must have a good work space, in addition to being functional for the owner’s family’s daily needs. Could the renovation be done by early 2022, during Covid with potential supply chain delays? Cavaco-Raughter and her husband were about to find out. They called John Tilton, owner of Tilton Construction Co. Tilton had built Audrey’s sister’s home on Sixth St., and had come highly recommended. Tilton then referred them

bay-magazine.com 65

to Woodhaven Lumber & Millwork for the kitchen design and materials, based on positive experiences of using Woodhaven as a supplier in the past, and on the strength of their showroom in Manahawkin. “Based on the information that Audrey gave me regarding her budget and the style of cabinets she wanted, I knew Woodhaven would be a good fit for her,” Tilton says. “She saw the showroom and found some items she was drawn to. Woodhaven’s products fit the design concept she had envisioned.” Tilton put Audrey in touch with Yasmin Deren, Kitchen Design Specialist. The goals were to make the kitchen multi-functional, efficient, and more welcoming—all in a few months’ time. While Tilton did the demolition, tiling, electrical and plumbing work, Woodhaven designed the kitchen, installed the cabinets, countertops, and flooring, and coordinated between departments at their store. Woodhaven is a one-stop shop for everything from 66 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

windows, doors, custom closets, mouldings, flooring, kitchens, bathrooms — and much more . Its team takes a comprehensive approach to design. Experts in each department collaborate to coordinate home projects tailored to the customer’s unique project needs. “Yasmin was great to work with. With all the supply-chain issues, if something I wanted wasn’t available, she would call me right away and tell me what my other options were. I was okay with switching to what was available to meet the deadline,” Cavaco-Raughter says. That is exactly what happened with the color selection for the cabinets, which proved to be a stroke of good luck. Originally, Audrey wanted gray-stained cabinets with a blue island, but the gray color she wanted for the cabinets wouldn’t be available until April, so she switched to white instead. Glass doors were added for decorative appeal.

OPEN HOUSE

“Sometimes things happen for a reason,” Deren says. “The white cabinets are timeless and they make the room look more bright and airy. The room feels light and beachy.” The massive peninsula was removed and in its place went a large rectangular island with a Blanco Arebescato quartz countertop. “We wanted to make it large enough to accommodate some seating, but not too large that it cut off the flow of the room. We chose a quartz color that had some gray in it—it’s simple, beautiful, and durable,” Deren says. The island’s blue cabinets draw from the colors of the ocean. “Against the white cabinetry, the blue is accentuated and it makes the whole room ‘pop’!” Cavaco-Raughter says. A dark gray stain was chosen for the ceiling beams,which were previously a dull brown, to make them look like driftwood. With the kitchen’s lighter color scheme, the beams stand out as a design feature. The original kitchen had large picture windows facing the bay. To take advantage of the stunning view, a breakfast counter with seating was added underneath one set of windows.

Additional accessories, such as tray dividers in the cabinets, pull-out trash and recycling, and a Lazy Susan, were strategically placed to make the work space more efficient for the chef and the homeowner. For the flooring in the open-concept kitchen and living room space, a mash-up of outdated materials was replaced with COREtec luxury vinyl in Klondike Contempo Oak, a soft brown color with notes of gray. COREtec flooring has a realistic wood appearance, is durable for high-traffic areas, and the cork backing makes it quieter and warmer underfoot. The flooring ties the space together for a cohesive and seamless look. Thanks to a strong partnership between Woodhaven and Tilton, the project went smoothly and was completed by the end of January—one week ahead of schedule. The couple had plenty of time to settle and acclimate to their new space before they opened the bed and breakfast’s doors to guests at the start of the season in April. “Working with Woodhaven was fabulous!” Cavaco-Raughter says. “The final result is so beautiful, open and airy. I wanted it to feel welcoming and inviting, and that’s exactly what I got!”

bay-magazine.com 67

68 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

You won’t find them in ordinary kitchens. Or at ordinary stores. Sub-Zero, the preservation specialist. Wolf, the cooking specialist. Cove, the dishwashing specialist. Find them exclusively at your local kitchen specialist. 1968

491a Main Street West Creek, NJ 08092 609-597-3571 anchorappliance.com Monday & Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday: 9 am – 6 pm Saturday: 9 am – 4 pm

bay-magazine.com 69

Born Into The Business Written by Ashley Williams

Garabedian is a second generation Broker-Builder. Matthew spent his summers on LBI, where he now lives and works year-round and is an integral part of island life. In his younger years, Matthew served as on Officer for the Long Beach Township Beach Patrol and was the Commodore for the Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club. His wife, Coleen, graduated from the Southern Regional School District. Today Matthew is a member of the Ship Bottom Fire Department and his company, Garabedian Real Estate Companies, has since become a familiar and well-respected name in real estate. “We are brokers. We are builders. We are real estate.” Matthew says. It’s one of a few of his working taglines, he says, and one that encompasses the pulse of his hybrid company’s focus. Awarded Top 30 Under 30 by age 24 in Realtor Magazine, Matthew credits his classic style street hustle and exemplary client communication practices for his long-standing success. He attended the executive program at Harvard Business School for Real Estate Finance and Development and the Construction Management Program at Columbia University. Even amid such Ivy League academic credentials, Matthew still cites experience as his best education. Matthew prides himself on working in the trenches and is heavily involved with both companies, in both of his office locations, South and North, each and every day. Matthew’s successful world is held together in what he calls his Business Bible. This custom-made, hand-held planner allows him to track every day, every week and every month. He keeps it close beside him at all times and credits his proprietary planner with his ability to effectively operate his office and job sites. Everything Garabedian does is about managing goals and schedules; from his agents to his clients to his own personal life, he focuses first and foremost on setting a date and then coming in ahead of schedule with value as his top priority. When you work with either one of the Garabedian Real Estate Companies, you work directly with Matt.

70 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

“Whether it’s selling, building, or buying… our clients’ equity and value positions are of the utmost importance. The average builder doesn’t have that kind of knowledge of the real estate market and the average broker doesn’t have that kind of knowledge of the construction side. That’s our difference.” Referring to the brokerage side of the business, Garabedian

states, “We do things differently at Garabedian. We are about leveraging the market outside of the local area. As the only firm on Long Beach Island that is independently owned with offices also in North Jersey, it allows us to exhaust the exposure of a property to all potential buyers, not just strictly local.” He is also licensed in NYC. This exposure guarantees our listing clients the highest value for their property when selling.” This strategy seems to work well. Since the firm started in 2016, Garabedian claims he’s never had a residential listing fail to sell. The camaraderie, the culture, and the collective mindset may just be what keeps this lean brokerage firing like a small hedge fund. With twenty agents between the two locations, Garabedian is always pushing his team to succeed. Garabedian is not as concerned with the number of agents but rather in the quality and productivity for our clients. Whether on the brokerage or building side, our clients’ equity is always a top priority. It’s not important where we’re sitting, it’s what we’re doing differently to achieve the goal. On the construction side of the business, he credits the constant communication with clients with allowing him to be a creator of value. Garabedian assists clients in not only finding property, but also managing the build while protecting their equity. In addition, our architecture and interior selection specialists, included in our service, help bring ease to our clients throughout the process, allowing a new project to be enjoyable instead of a headache. All done under one roof. Garabedian is currently completing and preparing several homes for immediate delivery, with more custom homes expected to break ground this fall.

Recent construction client, Lynn Goldstein, affirms the notion that a smooth process from concept to completion is absolutely essential. She and her husband recently hired Garabedian to build their primary residence in Surf City. “We are ecstatic to be in our new home,” Goldstein says. Through a referral, we were impressed with Matt’s strong real estate history, so we gave the office a call. Matt called back within a matter of hours on a Saturday evening, so that truly set the stage. Matt’s a real go-getter and his company was a great choice for us.” “Matt was extremely proactive and very organized with files and spreadsheets, all of which were very clear,” Goldstein says. “He told us exactly what we were paying, juggled supply chain issues, followed up and followed through with vendors. He’s just very detail oriented so supplies were there and lined up. Contractors were stacked and ready to go from one phase to the next. Matt is really on his game, he made sure we didn’t incur higher costs.” This is one of the key differentiators Garabedian identifies for his business and allows Garabedian’s projects to keep moving smoothly. Goldstein concurs, “We were in a time-sensitive situation, living in a long-term rental from October to June, so we appreciated Matt’s constant communication. His follow-up and turnaround time were great and it really made all the difference. Communication was key, and he delivered our project on time despite COVID delays. As a one-stop shop, having the architecture, interior selection specialist and working alongside Matt made the process enjoyable.” Garabedian looks forward to brokering and building for generations to come on LBI and hopes one day his three daughters will choose to work alongside him and continue to grow the business.

bay-magazine.com 71

The #1 BROKERAGE on LBI for DECADES Why List or Buy With Anyone Else? Call One of Our Convenient LBI Locations Barnegat Light Office 609-494-1776

Beach Haven Office

Ship Bottom Office

609-492-7277

609-494-7272

©2022 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

72 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 73

OPEN HOUSE Photo by Michael John Murphy

creating a customer experience like no other Written by Denise Petti

In 2012, after having spent a decade in the Audio/ Visual business working for the likes of Comcast, Cablevision and local A/V companies, owner Nick Oramas saw an opportunity in the local market which he felt was not being met. That need was for high quality A/V installation by a well respected company who stood behind their work. Nick set about creating a customer experience like no other. Having developed many relationships from early on in his career, trust and credibility were already well established out of the gate. With that, Nick had the foundation to hit the ground running. It was the summer before Superstorm Sandy, and there was some construction happening on the island, as Nick recalls, however it wasn’t as if some huge opportunity opened up and he leapt at the chance. Nick knew full well that he still had to prove himself by doing things right from the start. The competition at the time, many of whom Nick had previously worked for himself, still had strong roots. This meant Nick would be expected to go above and beyond. He set about creating a process and a style for delivering high caliber service in the A/V industry on LBI.

more sophisticated. “We are finding that creating a smart home is leading essentially all of what we do,” Nick affirms. “Back in 2012, when the business first launched, services centered mostly around the television, installing components like surround sound and whole house audio packages. Back then people were listening to CD players, Sirius XM and FM radio. Today, everything is about digital streaming and Smart Home integration.” While every homeowner may have different motivation and personal taste for what and how they would like to see technology adopted in the home environment, Nick and his team are often called upon for their input, knowledge and expertise related to the many intricate nuances of Smart Home integration. This typically includes solutions for helping customers control things such as interior and exterior lighting from their cell phones, programming thermostats from an app, and monitoring surveillance systems from virtually anywhere in the world. From music speakers to door locks to home theater solutions, Techno Sound & Video does so much more than just their name says.

“Customer service is at the forefront of everything we do,” says Nick.

“We’re seeing a lot more architects designing houses with, high ceilings, and many of windows because that’s what customers want,” Nick says.

It’s a good thing too, as clients today expect more as technology becomes more complex and integration

These state of the art homes can present challenges when deciding where to place items such as a large,

74 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

flatscreen television or figuring out the best spots for placing wall switches. Techno works with builders to create solutions such as hydraulic lifts for TVs as well as panelized lighting systems, whereby the electrician runs everything back to a single panel controlled by a keypad. These creative solutions allow the architecture to play the primary role, as intended, offering dramatic design statements as the homeowner enjoys seamless technological integration without aesthetic interruption. From creating virtual offices to installing motorized window coverings, technology is more impressive and more user-friendly than ever. “I tell people we can have your TV wired through your speakers and you don’t need five different remotes or even a universal remote,” Nick says. “Everything just works.” The Techno team stays busy all year round doing jobs for local LBI customers whose primary homes are located up north. “We find ourselves doing their beach houses in the summer,” Nick says. “They like our work, they like the products, so they ask us to travel and work on their main homes in the winter.” Techno’s successes aren’t relegated just to new construction or large contemporary homes either. Recently Nick performed a job for a client who put a second floor on his original LBI home. It was a small home, formerly a pool house, that had been converted into a main house. The homeowner expressed that he really wanted to put a TV in his office, but was frustrated at the lack of space available to accommodate one. The office was so small it had a Murphy bed. Nick took one look and suggested they mount the TV to a hydraulic inside the soffit. The homeowner was so surprised and delighted, he dubbed it “The James Bond TV.” Nick credits this solutions-focused, easygoing customer service model for the company’s success. Nearly every employee on his team has worked with builders, so they understand what it means to work outside the box and on a deadline. “When we are asked to complete an install by a certain date, we show up and it gets done on that date, Nick says.” He prides himself on having a good team that is easy to work with and who doesn’t need to be chased down.

He knows that the customer service model he built fosters appreciative builders and clients alike, and is a model for success that allows customers to count on Techno to keep projects going. Nick further credits his success to the effective communication he shares with his office team and customers. He also cites the excellent relationships he shares with local builders, making him and his team comfortable working with people of all personalities. There are about fifteen employees; three work in the office doing billing and proposals, answering phones and ordering, and then there are ten solo installers, everything from rough wiring of houses to installing TVs, and finishing homes with components. There are different levels of experience and know-how, and Nick says that he and his team are always seeking out training to learn the latest and greatest technologies systems and techniques. Some of the best compliments Nick can hope for is a recommendation or referral from a former client. “Sometimes I’ll meet a client,” he says, “And I’ll bay-magazine.com 75

DID YOU KNOW?

discover that we previously did a job for his or her friend or brother, sister, parents… some other acquaintance somewhere down the line. Usually we’ve worked for somebody they know, which seems to happen more and more these days.” A customer from a previous employer had called him a technical genius, which is what informed the very name of the company: Techno, in which the N stands for Nick and the O stands for Oramas. Often times, it’s when things are going smoothly that solidifies a company’s reputation. It’s usually during times of chaos and confusion that determines the true grit and resilience of a business. When Superstorm Sandy hit the island, Nick claims it helped him grow his business. Unlike other businesses on the island that found themselves reeling in the aftermath of the natural disaster, for Techno, it served as a prime opportunity for businesses like his to rebuild and redefine their value to island’s homeowners. When disaster struck once again with the COVID-19 pandemic, initially there was a substantial decrease in opportunity as the world froze to hold its collective breath and re-orient itself to whatever might be on the horizon. No one could have predicted what this would ultimately mean for the businesses that served homeowners on Long Beach Island. Subsequently, with the overwhelming increase in people working from home, quarantining at home, moving to their beach homes, making significant home improvements to enjoy their space, and rebuilding homes, meant opportunities galore for Techno Sound & Video. Both Superstorm Sandy and the global pandemic really served to usher in an uptick in volume and opportunity for business owners like Nick, who held on tight for the ride. Success ultimately rode on the wave of homeowners ready to make home improvements, and for Nick, that meant upgrades to their home technology packages. As such, Techno Sound & Video was one of the lucky industries that proved to be hurricane-proof, recession-proof and pandemic-proof, and went on to see some of the most successful fiscal years in company history.

76 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Even so, Nick prides himself on being fair and reasonably priced. “I bid for jobs and a client may feel compelled to share a competitor’s quote with me,” Nick says. “We all end up being in the same ballpark, but I like to break down everything so it’s easy to understand. I explain why we’re doing certain things. When you’re going to spend this kind of money, you may see a price tag and say, ‘Why is it so much?’ So I explain it all right off the bat, that way it makes a lot more sense and there are no surprises. This allows me to deliver value and manage my customers’ expectations.” When the pandemic first started, Nick admits he was very concerned about what was going to happen. When it was announced which businesses were essential, Techno ended up falling into two different categories; residential construction and communications. So that meant they were still able to work. In fact, they actually got busier because people were saying, ‘Well, if we’re going to end up moving to the island full-time, then let’s do that project now that we were going to hold off and do next year.’” Nick and his crew found themselves busier than ever within a month or so of the shutdown and have been booked consistently with jobs ever since. And there’s no end in sight either, as the business prepares to move into a new office. Techno Sound & Video may call this beautiful island home, however Nick admits he doesn’t really take time to take in the sights and sounds of the beach much. He’s too busy making the Audio and Visual worlds a little bit brighter for homeowners. “I enjoy working on the island and seeing the water when I come over the causeway every morning,” he says. “It’s one of my favorite times of the day, especially when it’s clear and you can see everything. As most of us would agree, and Nick sums up so perfectly, “There’s just a different feeling about being here that you don’t really get anywhere else.”

ENHANCING YOUR EXPERIENCE AT THE SHORE

AUDIO • VIDEO • HOME CONTROL SEE US IN OUR NEW LOCATION

P L AT I N U M D E A L E R Photo: Ryan Paul Marchese

2020 E LONG BEACH BLVD, UNIT B, SHIP BOTTOM, NJ 08008 609.607.7230 | WWW.TECHNOSOUNDANDVIDEO.COM FULLY INSURED • LIC.#13VH06976400A bay-magazine.com 77

Introducing The POWER OF ONE from Valley National Bank Valley's unique POWER OF ONE construction ﬁnancing program combines the construction phase and the permanent phase into one convenient process. Now you can build the home of your dreams and: • Gain peace of mind knowing you only have to go through the loan process once • Enjoy one deﬁned rate structure for the life of your loan • Count on professional support from a team of banking and constructing professionals who want to make sure your home is delivered on time

A lender that's there for you For more than 90 years, Valley has provided buyers with specialized lending knowledge along with exceptional service. If you're interested in a free mortgage consultation, pre-qualiﬁcation or preapproval, please reach out to us. We'd like to help turn your dream of building your next home into reality

Rick Butera Home Loan Consultant NMLS# 263964 561 Atlantic City Boulevard/Rt 9 Bayville, NJ 08721 O: 877-914-9500 C: 732-241-2678 F: 732-358-0302 rick@rickbutera.com

2022

78 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 79

HEALTHY LIVING

B R E A T H 80 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

The Importance of Proper Breathing for Your Overall Health Written By Ted Siciliano, DC

It is not called “The Breath of Life” for nothing. One of the most basic functions of the human body, breathing not only fuels the body with oxygen, it influences our mental acuity, cardo-vascular system, vision, sense of smell, speech, musculoskeletal movement and physical activities, organ function and, of course, sleep. Yet few people learn how to breathe in a way that allows the body to function the way it should. Below, I hope to explain how breathing works, how we benefit from proper breathing and then give some recommendations of how to improve your breathing and overall health.

T H E B I O M E C H A N I C S O F B R E AT H I N G How does our breathing work? What are the mechanisms of respiration? The biomechanics of breathing has always fascinated me since my early collegiate days. There are basically two biomechanical phases of respiration: Inhalation is when you bring air into your lungs and exhalation is where you expel air out of your lungs. Simple right? When you breathe in, or inhale, the muscle on the bottom of your ribcage, called your diaphragm, contracts and moves downward. This allows the lungs to have ample room to expand. The muscles between your ribs, called the intercostal muscles, contract to pull your ribcage upward and outward. As your lungs expand, air is sucked in through your nose and mouth and travels down your trachea to your lungs. After passing through your bronchial tubes, the air finally reaches the air sacs where oxygen is passed into the blood stream. At the same time, carbon dioxide travels into the air sacs from the blood stream and is expelled from the body as you exhale. On average, this process is repeated between 17,000-30,000 a day, every day, as long as a person is alive.

T H E B R E A T H I N G + H E A LT H C O N N E C T I O N Every system in the body relies on oxygen. From cognition to digestion, effective breathing can not only provide you with a greater sense of mental clarity and brain function, it can also help you sleep better, digest food more efficiently, improve your body’s immune response, and reduce stress levels. Many people who practice yoga or breath control, have been shown to regulate the sympathetic nervous system, or the part of the body that controls breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. One of the main factors in optimizing our breathing is to consider the air we breathe. Since breathing in oxygen is necessary for all physiological functions, we must consider the quality of air we breathe. Breathing clean air can promote the integrity of your brain and prevent cognitive decline. Another significant health benefit of breathing clean air is the lowering of your heart rate and blood pressure. Clean, fresh air has a higher oxygen content. As you breathe, filling your lungs with oxygen rich air, the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to meet the oxygen demands of your body which slows your heart rate. This can also have an effect on your blood pressure. When your breathing is slower and deeper, you stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system which in turn opens your blood vessels, increases blood flow and reduces functional demands on your heart. Where can we go in New Jersey in our search for clean breathing air? Luckily for the day trippers to Long Beach Island, weekly summer vacationers, snow birds and locals— your search is over. The air quality on and around LBI has some of the best, if not the best, air quality in the State of New Jersey. Since LBI is considered to be “6 miles at sea” and as an island is surrounded by

bay-magazine.com 81

HEALTHY LIVING

the Atlantic Ocean, Manahawkin Bay, the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuse, Stafford Forge State Conservation Area and the Wharton State Forest on the mainland side, this puts LBI in an ideal geographic location for great air quality. Additionally, Long Beach Island has those prevailing southeast “million dollar” breezes during the summer season which bring in the cool, fresh, clean air off the Atlantic Ocean—bathing LBI in pristine air. Of course, when the wind blows from the west, all bets are off. Fortunately, these southeast ocean breezes are prevailing for the summer season for everyone can enjoy.

I M P R O V I N G Y O U R B R E AT H I N G Now that we know how to breathing works and where we can go to breathe fresh air, what are some strategies or exercises the average person can do to improve their breathing? Of course, the first thing you can do is to stop smoking or vaping. Enough said! You can implement a basic cardiovascular exercise program into you weekly schedule. You can make sure your Vitamin D levels are within a normal range. To do this, ask your Primary Care Physician to incorporate your Vitamin D values into your routine blood tests and adjust your Vitamin D intake accordingly. Most importantly, you can practice and perform beneficial breathing exercises. This begins, first and foremost, with great posture. Sitting up straight allows the lungs to expand quickly and efficiently with every breath. Likewise, sitting up straight helps air to travel into the lungs and carbon dioxide to travel out of the lungs unimpeded. If you are sitting at your desk and feel foggy or otherwise uninspired, take a moment to reposition your body with a straight back to notice an immediate improvement at how well oxygen is reaching your bloodstream and thereby your brain. These exercises are easy to learn and don’t take a lot of time. First, you can just focus on your breathing pattern which is to inhale through your noise with a slow, deep, quiet regular rhythm then exhale through your mouth slowly. Do this for 5 times more, then breathe normally. Next, try a breathing technique which can help increase your energy levels. This traditional exercise

82 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

is often used in Yoga and is known as “Bellows Breathing” which stimulates the diaphragm, energizes the body and clears the mind. Here’s how you do it: sit up tall, relax your shoulders, keep your mouth closed then inhale and exhale through your nose with quick shorts breaths. Do this for 10 seconds then rest and breath normally for 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat this sequence for 3 to 5 times then breath normally. Lastly, there is the “Abdominal Breathing Technique” which is one of the best known, most widely used positive coping breathing techniques which is recommended by the American Lung Association and the American Heart Association. This technique can help lower your blood pressure and heart rate as it reduces the effects of stress on your body. Here’s how it works: Get into a comfortable position, lying on your back. Loosen tight, constricting clothing, especially at your neck and waist. Close your eyes and place your left hand on your abdomen and your right hand on your chest. Breathing normally, notice how your hands move as you breathe. Then slowly count to four as you inhale through your nose. Pause for a two counts. Then open your mouth and counting from one to six, exhale through your mouth. As you continue breathing this way, try to shift most of the movement toward your lower hand, which is at the level of your diaphragm. Try to let your abdomen push your left hand out as you inhale then pull your abdomen in letting your left hand fall as you exhale. After few minutes of slow, rhythmic breathing, let your hands slowly move to your sides as your abdomen continues to move freely with each breathe. After a few more minutes, slowly open your eyes and lye quietly. Of course, if you have a respiratory condition or other health concerns, it would be prudent to consult your Primary Care Physician prior to performing any breathing exercise program. As you can see, breathing, something we do unconsciously every day, is extremely important optimizing bodily function and has a huge influence on achieving and maintaining great health. My intent for this article is to bring some appreciation of the breathing process to the reader and to encourage everyone take advantage of this wonderful place we call Long Beach Island. So, sit back, relax your shoulders, take a nice deep breath, exhale slowly and enjoy!

We restore healthy spine function and ENHANCE quality of life

Ted Siciliano, D.C. | Manahawkin Chiropractic Center 720 South Main Street Route 9 South Manahawkin, New Jersey 609-597-9333 | www.drtedsiciliano.com Non-surgical treatment of Spinal Stenosis | Herniated Discs of the Cervical or Lumbar Spine Degenerative Disc Disease | Neck pain with or without arm pain | Sciatica bay-magazine.com 83

HEALTHY LIVING

Don’t Put Your Life On Hold for Joint Pain Get back to enjoying life, pain free

Jason Wong, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon

James P. Doran, Jr., MD Orthopedic Surgeon

Some of summer’s greatest treasures are walking on the beach, riding bicycles, and fully enjoying activities with family and friends. If you suffer from joint pain, these physical activities can take a toll on your knees, hips and shoulders. The most common causes of joint pain are related to aging, injury or repeated overuse of a muscle, and sports injuries. Osteoarthritis, a common type of arthritis, happens over time when the cartilage, the protective cushion in between the bones wears away and the joint becomes painful and stiff, “Severe joint pain can affect your quality of life but there are a number of orthopedic treatments and surgical advancements that can get you back in the game again,” says Jason Wong, D.O., orthopedic surgeon, Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center. “Our goal is to restore your movement and function, relieve pain, and prevent further injury so you can lead an active, fulfilled life.” 84 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Options for Managing Pain There is a range of pain control options available depending on your degree of pain and its effect on your lifestyle. “Whatever the cause of joint pain, you can usually manage it with regular exercise, medications, physical/occupational therapy, injections, and integrative medicine,’’ says James P. Doran, Jr., M.D., orthopedic surgeon, Southern Ocean Medical Center. “If the joint pain is long lasting and does not lessen with these options, surgery may be an option.”

Surgical Options Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure where a surgeon makes two to three small incisions in the skin over the joint and uses an arthroscope, a thin fiber optic video camera, to inspect and diagnose injuries within the joint. Next, special arthroscopic instruments can be inserted to repair or remove cartilage and/or bone in or near the joint. If the cartilage that cushions and protects the end of the bone gradually wears away, joint replacement surgery may be needed to replace the joint. This can be done for hip, knee and shoulder joints. The surgeon removes part of the bone and implants an artificial joint made of plastic or metal. This procedure has had excellent results and the majority of patients feel long-lasting pain relief after post-operative therapy to ensure the healing is complete.

If you are experiencing mild to disabling joint pain, speak with your doctor to discuss symptoms such as: Swelling Stiff or enlarged joint Numbness Noisy joints, or clicking, grinding, or snapping sound when moving the joint Painful movement Difficulty bending or straightening the join Loss of motion A red and hot and swollen joint

How much does hip or knee pain truly impact your life? Find out in minutes. Take a free risk assessment at HMHforU.org/HipRisk. To make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon, call 800-822-8905 or visit HMHforU.org/Doctors.

Hackensack Meridian Health offers outpatient physical therapy and rehabilitation locations throughout the state, including Manahawkin, Stafford, Forked River and Little Egg Harbor. Visit HMHforU.org/Rhab to learn more.

bay-magazine.com 85

H y d r a t i o n

P r e - G a m e

G r o u p

B o o k i n g s

B o t o x

A t We l l , o u r g o a l i s t o g e t y o u f e e l i n g your absolute best. An IV fluid and electrolyte infusion and a vitamin

boost will provide a quick and much needed solution to replenish, r e h y d r a t e , r e g r o u p a n d r e b o o t … To b e w e l l .

6 0 9 - 5 2 9 - 0 3 0 3 | w e l l h y d rat i o n . c o m | 1 1 1 0 1 Lo n g B e a c h B l v d H a v e n B e a c h , N J

Fa m i l y

M e d i c a l

Family Medical Care 8 5 3 M ill C r e e k R d . M a n a h a w k in w e lln e s s - n j.c o m 6 0 9 -7 5 6 -4 6 6 7

Familyvisits Medical Care Wellness

C a r e

U r g e n t

| @ w e l l h y d ra t i o n

C a r e

S e r v i c e

Urgent Care Services 853 Mill Creek Rd. Manahawkin

w e lln e s s - n j.c o m 9-a 7r5e 6-S 46e6r7vices Urgen6t0C

Treatment of acute illness 853 Mill Creek Rd. Physicals (annual, sports and DOT) 3 M ill C r e e k R d . Chronic85disease management Manahawkin Ear problems/irrigation M a n a h a w k in Women’s Health w e l lness-ninjuries j.c o m w e lln e s s - n j.c o m Musculoskeletal Pediatrics609-756-4667 EKG 609-756-4667 Physicals (annual, sports and DOT) Medication tetanus) Treatment of (including acute illness Weight management counseling Nebulizer treatments Wellness visits Physicals (annual, sports and DOT) Burn treatment Chronic disease management Ear problems/irrigation Foreign object injuries removal Women’s Health Musculoskeletal Incision & drainage EKG Pediatrics Splint placement Medication (including tetanus) Physicals (annual, sports and DOT) Suture repair & removal Nebulizer treatments Weight management counseling IV therapy Burn treatment Foreign object removal Incision & drainage 8 5 3 M i l l C r e e k R d . M a n a h Splint a w k placement in Suture repair & removal w e l l n e s s - n j . c o m | 6 0 9 . 7 5 6 IV . 4therapy 667 86 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

BOATING

DREAMS

Sea Ray SLX 260

Galeon 325 GTO

Sailfish 276 DC

Scout 277 Dorado

YOUR LOCAL BOATING RESOURCE We are your one-stop shop for Sales, Marina, Parts, and Service. Contact us today for all of your boating needs. MarineMax Ship Bottom – Sales Office 214 West 9th | Ship Bottom, NJ 08008 (888) 579-3249 marinemax.com/shipbottom

MarineMax Brant Beach – Service Center 20 W. 44th St. | Brant Beach, NJ 08008 (866) 932-3113 marinemax.com/brantbeach

bay-magazine.com 87

HEALTHY LIVING

E X E R C I S E I S C H I L D ’ S P L AY Black Sheep Studios in Haven Beach welcomes a new demographic to its fit flock: kids. Written by Sarah Hodgson

Photos by Ann Coen

Famed for its butt-kicking, high-intensity, sweat-inducing workouts, the boutique fitness hub is making gym trips a family affair this summer with a program designed specifically for younger audiences.

being,” said Karvan. “Kids in particular were not socializing during a pivotal time in their youth and weren’t able to stay active with after school sports and extracurriculars.”

Owner and fitness guru Devon Karvan launched the “Kids Fitness” initiative just last year. “We started Kids Fitness during Memorial Day Weekend 2021 to gear up for summer! We felt strongly about getting the program going considering the circumstances surrounding covid.”

Indeed, the youth-focused classes come at an opportune time given the sobering health and wellness data emerging post-lockdown era. A study from UNICEF reviewing more than 130,000 children from 22 different countries found adolescents reporting symptoms of depression, irritability and anxiety. Social isolation and loneliness promoted sedentary behaviors and even substance abuse.

“Covid severely impacted peoples’ health and well 88 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

An antidote for this mass decline in mental health is just within reach: exercise. Recent studies show that, on average, children who partake in physical activity are less likely to experience depression, anxiety and psychological distress. The gist? Exercise can improve their overall mental well-being. Karvan’s hope is to introduce the benefits of fitness to youth across the Long Beach Island region (and beyond) through specialized programming. “We wanted to offer a safe way for kids to get their bodies moving again and enjoy the outdoors with some of the best kids’ fitness coaches in South Jersey,” said Karvan. Designed for ages 4-12, Kids Fitness fosters a safe environment where youngsters can play on the beach while improving their endurance, flexibility, listening skills and social abilities. By way of engaging drills and interactive games, Black Sheep works to instill in children that physical activity doesn’t have to be a chore. Exercise can be fun. “It’s important that kids find sports and activities that speak to them so they have the want and drive to keep going,” said Karvan. Swapping out tire-tossing for tag, and kettlebells for water guns, Black Sheep has adapted their signature adult beach boot camp for kids. The new, 45-minute long format opts for less strenuous movements and incorporates equipment better suited for little ones and their developing muscles. And who will be teaching these unique, highly-specialized courses? Frank Kellog and Brittany Dunn. Kellog is a kids martial arts instructor and Certified Level II Fitness Trainer with a concentration in Youth Fitness through the American Council of Exercise. Dunn is a growth mindset oriented fitness coach with extensive experience in Kids and Family Programming.

bay-magazine.com 89

HEALTHY LIVING

“Coach Frank and Coach Britt are always mixing up the props and design of the classes so the kids have something new and fun to look forward to each time they come,” said Karvan. Karvan said she notices a difference in the group dynamic before and after just one session with Kellog and Dunn. “The first day of class when they meet, everyone is very shy, quiet and subdued. But by the time they get back from the beach, they are chatting, excited, full of energy and have made new friends.” She continued, “The more often they come, we notice a difference in their dispositions, energy levels, confidence and overall mental and physical health.” The Black Sheep crew has even carried the program off the beach, enriching local school systems with 90 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

their novel curriculum. Regular visits are paid to Beach Haven Elementary School where the entire student body gathers in the playground to participate in interactive fitness courses. For 20-minute bouts, kids are given a much-needed, energy-boosting reprieve from their deskbound routines. Aside from the obvious need for youth-centric fitness programs in a post pandemic world, Karvan felt that the kids classes are a natural expansion for the Black Sheep brand. “We are always looking for ways to keep workouts fresh and fun for everyone. It made sense to offer a program geared towards kids, utilizing the beautiful beaches we have at our fingertips.” For more information about the Kids Fitness program at Black Sheep Studios in Haven Beach, visit www.blacksheepstudiosnj.com.

CIRCUIT

New! bay-magazine.com 91

HOST ON THE COAST LBI's Premier Concierge Service

WWW.HOSTONTHECOASTLBI.COM photo by ann coen

UNFORGETTABLE SUMMER (Free with Purchase)

92 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 93

HEALTHY LIVING

Welcome Summer

8 flowing Postures to Salute the Summer Sun Written by Katie Ribsam & Lea Pancher

Photos by Pia Villamayor

With summer upon us, so is the season of flowing active energy and the perfect time to deepen your connection to your mind and body through active movement. Common to many yoga classes, the Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar) builds an internal heat and activates, strengthens and stretches the body. Sun Salutations are good cardiovascular training as well and help increase overall flexibility. They can also be seen as a dynamic meditation as you connect movement with breath that can serve as a bridge between body and mind.

GIVE THIS ENERGIZING FLOW A TRY TO AWAKEN YOUR SPIRIT AND DRAW IN THE ENERGY OF SUMMER!

Repeat the entire sequence 3 to 5 times. 94 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

M O U N TA I N

S E

FOLD D R

Start the flow in a standing position either placing your feet together or having them hips width apart for more stability. Stand tall and distribute your weight equally. Lengthen your arms beside your body, draw your shoulders back and engage your pelvic floor and lower belly. Take a couple of deep breaths here to prepare your body for the movement that’s to come.

LIF T

With your next inhale reach your arms up and over head and exhale folding your upper body all the way down, placing your hands either on your upper thighs, calves or the floor. Stretch your hamstrings while releasing your back.

Inhale, straighten your arms, lift your chest up and look forward while straightening the spine bringing your back flat like a table top. This posture will help build strength in your upper back and help lengthen your entire spine.

bay-magazine.com 95

GA P

D AR

FA C I N G

AN UR

As you inhale, press your palms into the floor to straighten your arms, untuck your toes, and arch your back looking towards the sky. Keep the knees lifted up off the floor. and feel your chest and shoulders open. Draw your shoulder down your back body. Here you also have the option to keep the hips and legs on the floor while pressing through the palms of the hands and lifting only the upper torso for Cobra. In this variation keep the elbows slightly bent and pressing towards the sides of the body.

With your exhale step back to your plank pose, shift your weight forward on your inhale and on your exhale bend your arms coming down to Chaturanga. This is a great posture to strengthen the muscles in your shoulders, back and core. Here you have the option to drop your knees for more support.

96 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

D O W N WA R

FOLD

NG DOG

D R A

Transition into Downward Facing Dog. On your exhale, press your hands down into the floor, send your hips to the sky and create an inverted V shape with your body. Engage through your shoulders and press your weight back into your heels. This posture helps you to stretch your back, hamstrings, calves and ankles while strengthening your upper body and relieving tension and stiffness.

With your next inhale step your feet back up to meet your hands and exhale back into your forward fold.

A RD SAL UTE

As your inhale come to stand reaching your hands up over your head stretching the entire body upwards and slightly back.

bay-magazine.com 97

Beach Barn Boutique Gifts . Clothing . Antiques & more I n t he hea rt o f S hi p Bo tto m

when y ou are look ing fo r so m ethi ng o ut o f the o rdi na ry

La Colombe Coffee & Baked Goods

1920 Long Beach Blvd Ship Bottom | 609.467.7170

home

life

found

1 7 0 0 l o n g b e a c h b l v d . s u r f c i t y | 6 0 9 4 9 4 1 8 0 2 | @ s h o p l i tt l e b u n g a l o w

98 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

just unrolled:

new yoga mat collection! AVAILABLE ONLINE & LOCALLY AT HOT OR NOT YOGA

Will you be aligning your chakras, unwinding in paradise or ﬁnding your zen in the mountains? Be one of the ﬁrst to own one of these extremely limited designs - available NOW at apeironyoga.com and Hot or Not Yoga!

bay-magazine.com 99

Realx or Exercise Written by Sarah Hodgson

100 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

HEALTHY LIVING

Following the closure of fitness facilities at the height of the COVID-19 lockdown, individuals relying on spas and public swimming pools were left, quite literally, high and dry. Luckily, spa system manufacturers swooped in with budget-friendly wellness options so that folks could relax or exercise from home without breaking the bank on pricey, inground pools. One of these manufacturers is Long Beach Island’s very own: LBI HotSpring Spas. In the last two years since the advent of the pandemic, this local business has seen a substantial uptick in the purchase of wellness-focused products. We spoke with the crew at LBI HotSpring Spas to learn a bit more about their top three, self-care spa systems and how they can benefit users!

Swim Spas Want a lap pool in your backyard, but don’t necessarily have the space or budget for one? A little Swim Spa goes a long way. These innovative systems are basically personal pools. They mimic the functionality of a full-size lap pool by incorporating revolutionary design elements like underwater treadmills and swim current generators. The best part? All fitness systems are aboveground and come in convenient sizes for any yard, big or small. “That’s the nice thing about the swim spas, they don’t take up a lot of space. If you have a really tiny yard, the smallest one is 7 ½ feet by 12 feet. The largest one goes up to 20 feet,” said Amy Woodring, of LBI HotSpring and Spas.

While fitness swim systems are worthy of olympic-level athletes, anyone can partake. These family-friendly machines can accommodate recreation, conditioning and health needs. In fact, Woodring says that their primary swim system users are people with medical conditions like arthritis and Parkinson’s disease. “That was the biggest thing when the pandemic hit. People were looking specifically for units to put in their houses because they had Parkinson’s and they needed to use it for therapy every single day,” said Woodring. Hydrotherapy is a key treatment for neurodegenerative and chronic disorders. Aquatic exercise regimens have been proven to enhance balance, build strength, improve flexibility and even increase confidence. With backyard swim spas, patients can get the invaluable therapy they need without ever having to leave their homes.

bay-magazine.com 101

HEALTHY LIVING

Saunas Home saunas, once a luxury, are now staples in many a household. “Ever since the pandemic, people have really been focusing on what they can do for themselves,” said Woodring. Sauna users enjoy a myriad of health benefits: improved cardiovascular performance, weight loss, stress relief. “Heat bathing” even increases blood circulation, flushes out toxins and improves complexion by rinsing bacteria out of the skin and cleansing the pores. Sauna systems, whether indoor or outdoor, are also beautiful, undemanding additions to any home. Not only do they come in a variety of elegant styles, but they are simple to maintain - requiring very little upkeep.

Hot Spring Spas Who knew soaking in a hot tub could be so good for you? A daily, 20-minute session in a hot spring spa can actually improve your sleep cycle, increase circulation and mitigate chronic pain. At LBI HotSpring Spas, these units are their bread and butter. “We are the only manufacturer of spas that carry an in-line saltwater system,” said Woodring. The salt water in hot spring spas is known for its restorative effect on sore joints and imbalanced nervous systems. The mineral content of the water even acts as a natural detox on skin, softening rough or dry areas and improving persistent conditions like acne. An added bonus: the hot spring spas are built from a polymer substructure impervious to rot, unlike a typical wooden unit. Coastal homeowners can soak at ease knowing their spas won’t succumb to the salty climate. Established in 1987, LBI HotSpring Spas has locations in both Ship Bottom and Toms River, servicing all of Ocean County. For more information about their products and services, visit www.lbihotspringspas.com.

102 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

INTRODUCING TOTAL WELLNESS

WE SELL AND SERVICE 2 FULL LINES OF F R E S H W AT E R & S A LT S Y S T E M S P A S 319 WEST 8TH ST. PO BOX 127 SHIP BOTTOM, NJ 08008 609.361.0221 | WWW.LBIHOTSPRINGSPAS.COM bay-magazine.com 103

GET THE LOOK

TOTALLY

Awesome Written by Carolyn Mijal

Photos by Allyson Jordan

Golden rays of sun capture your imagination dancing off the waves as the beaches fill with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and music. Similarly, to last fall’s 90s fashion Renaissance Summer 2022 is all about Y2k in the most awesome way. A fondness of what made this time creative and fun for fashion without the cringe of extremely low-rise jeans with whale tale flair…. Oh no, this summer is all about embracing your inner butterfly and creating a 2022 twist on Mariah Carey’s iconic Heartbreaker music video look with a fun, fresh, and modern twist. 104 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Five 0 Six Boutique’s collection of clothing and accessories is 18 miles of inspiration in one location, from end to end of the island the selection of clothing and accessories create limitless wardrobe possibilities. The 2022 Pantone Color of the year is a stunning lilac. A perfect way to transition from the spring to the summer. Muted tones of lilac / lavender and light blue with their icy hues can be styled with a variety of pieces and style preferences. Clothing is not the only piece that is seeing this color trend, swimwear is drenched in cool muted tones which evoke whimsical and ethereal feelings that modernize and bring sophistication to fairy like inspired pieces. As you walk around the boutique the variety of combinations you can create are endless… the limited does not exist (Mean Girls anyone?). The dreamiest lilac sweaters with delicate white stars line the tables of the shop like clouds. While billowy dresses dance as the sea breeze makes its way through the store. Last season maxi dresses were in the primary spotlight and for the Stevie Nicks in every woman the patterns this season bring fields of flowers to life. Summer 2022 is all about the Midi Dress, a more functional summer

dress, this stylish and flowy dress feels like a maxi, but its shorter hemline shows off the perfect pair of sneakers and makes biking from Harvey Cedars to Old Barney a dream. Midi dresses fit any style and can be found at the boutique in muted tones and boho patterns. Denim has been experiencing a creative burst as brands explore different cuts, lengths, and washes. Layering Denim has been iconic since Britney and Justin and with the modern sophistication added to styling denim, it has become so much more than just throwing on a pair of jeans. Denim is a great jumping off point for mixing fabric textures. Crochet / knitted tops, slick blouses, or a classic cotton tee all work with denim and a great pair of mules. Classically chic fashion seekers know that Neutrals never go out of style and this year in particular neutrals blend exceptionally well with the color trend. Monochrome styling is still as strong and provides an effortless way to stylize a look with accessories or pops of color: think white denim paired with a white blouse and Icey blue tank under neither; the perfect blend of modern cuts and sophistication while emulating a look from the 2000s, think J-Lo glow up. bay-magazine.com 105

GET THE LOOK

Accessories are key this fashion season and the selection at 506 ties in several looks and styling options. Butterfly clips are now delicate gold necklaces and tiny stud earrings. If you are a butterfly clip purest, don’t worry they are back and come in just as many colors and sizes as they did pre-Instagram. The shapes, colors and variety of sunglasses can all be found on display at 506 and the kaleidoscope display makes it hard to choose just one for the summer. The array of fashion, accessories, home items and gifts make 506 the perfect spot to stop into this summer. The friendly staff is always ready and willing to help and the quality of the pieces created timeless editions to your wardrobe. Five 0 Six Boutique is located at 506 Long Beach Blvd in Surf City. Stop on in and see all the treasures their boutique has to offer, you will not be disappointed!

106 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

SINCE 1969.

LOYAL TO THIS.

@FARIASSURFSPORT | @FARIASGIRLS FARIASSURF.COM – 6 LOCATIONS ON LONG BEACH ISLAND

fresh style, all summer long. (609) 467 5306 five0sixboutique.com @506boutique bay-magazine.com 107

GET THE LOOK

Upcycled Sari Dress by Colors by Padmina 108 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

CULTIVATING YOUR INNER YOGI WITH CONSCIOUS CONSUMERISM

Written by Katie RIbsam & Lea Pancher

Photos by Carolyn Dentz

Nowadays, yoga is often seen as an exercise that helps maintain a strong and agile body. However, when looking at its roots, one can quickly see that the practice goes beyond the physical. Yoga encompasses numerous, wisdom-filled philosophies that help guide us through life. This doesn’t mean, of course, that yoga can’t be a physical workout. But seeing it solely as such limits the practice and the power it can have in one’s life. The philosophy of yoga is vast with much wisdom to share. For example, the Eight Limbs of Yoga is a system of practices and commitments that reaches into all aspects of our lives. The Eight Limbs of Yoga help build a foundation of how to approach life and show that ethics are fundamental and of great importance to the yoga practice itself. This is where the first limb, Yama (ethics) comes into play. The first three Yamas are Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness) and Asteya (non-stealing). When analyzing these first three Yamas in the context of modern life, we can begin to see that being a conscious consumer fits in perfectly with yoga philosophy. Ahimsa (non-violence) teaches us to live in harmony with people and the planet. Satya (truthfulness) teaches us to not only be truthful in our words, but also in our actions helping us see the truth about the impacts of our decisions. Asteya (non-stealing) is a moral compass that can call into question our consumption-oriented economic system and how our needs and wants can take from others. Together, these three Yamas call for us to take a look at the social, ethical and environmental impacts of our consumption so that we may become more conscious consumers. bay-magazine.com 109

GET THE LOOK

SO WHAT EXACTLY IS CONSCIOUS CONSUMERISM? Conscious consumerism is the commitment to making purchasing decisions that minimize social and environmental impact. From shopping small and buying local, to choosing upcycled goods and forgoing unnecessary buys; becoming aware of our shopping habits and choosing options with less impacts can go a long way to living a lifestyle with a humanitarian and environmental heart. And while much attention has been given to campaigns like “shop small” and “buy local”, less attention has been given to another important daily-use sector: the clothing industry. The concept of ethically produced and sustainable fashion is based on the idea of respecting our environment, natural resources and caring about the working conditions of producers of our material goods. A focus on equity and transparency in trade helps to reduce poverty while increasing sustainability. Right here on Long Beach Island, businesses have had these ideas in mind. For example, in 2021 Yoga Bohemia expanded its operation to include a boutique that supports local and global artisans. In this spirit, the Bohemia Boutique was created to sell handcrafted, locally connected and ethically sourced products.

110 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

In the way that the food industry has made the leap from convenience food to community supported agriculture helping to shorten the gap between farmer and consumer, here we have the opportunity to shorten the gap between production and purchaser with our clothing. For example, Yoga Bohemia has partnered with Michelle Paladino from Sundog Imports and Taylor Thorn from Yaatree Bazaar, two Long Beach Island brands that have rooted their businesses in ethically sourced design from places like Bali, India and Morocco. Paladino, who has been building relationships with her Balinese tailors and textile designers for over 20 years, has made this part of her mission, “By knowing the names and faces of our production teams, Sundog has not only built long lasting relationships, but we also know our products meet our ethical standards.”, said Palidino. Beyond Bohemia, more and more retailers across LBI are supporting ethical product lines. Just this year Barnegat Light has welcomed Yaatree Bazaar’s first brick and mortar retail location offering both ethically sourced clothing and homegoods while longer standing boutiques such as Firefly Gallery and Little Bungalow of Surf City along with Sink or Swim of Long Beach continue their commitment to source ethical brands. According to Sam DiPetro, owner of Sink of Swim, “Consumers around the globe are becoming more and more committed to ethically sourced clothing and as consumer demand grows wholesalers and producers are taking notice. With each passing year we are seeing more brands trending towards ethical and eco-friendly production lines and we have been happy to further our relationship with brands with a conscience such as Faherty, Costa and Jetty. Our customers have taken notice investing in brands that are investing back in our world and ultimately investing back in our island.” And speaking of local brands, Jetty continues to blaze the trail with social and environmental stewardship. Jetty is one of only 5,000 global brands that has gained the difficult B-Corp Certification which ranks environmental and social performance. Among the efforts that awarded Jetty this distinction are its use of eco fabrics such as Repreve (recycled plastic bottles) and Oystex (recycled oyster shells) along with its environmental and humanitarian aid efforts. Through the Jetty Rock Foundation, Jetty has donated over 1.7 million in everything from disaster relief efforts to supporting medical bills of local families impacted by cancer. Jetty is now a national brand but can certainly be found right here on our home island in places such as Farias, Surf Shack South and Sink or Swim. So whether you practice physical yoga or not, you can always cultivate your inner-yogi by adhering to the three Yamas: Ahimsa, Satya and Asteya. The three ethical tenets that help us live a more harmonious and sustainable lifestyle aligned with our fellow people and planet which includes how we choose to shop. Balinese Textile Clothing by Sundog Imports bay-magazine.com 111

Sip,shop +stro  Reynolds! 2

Stroll through our inspiring collection of shops and gardens filled to the brim with Home Décor, Women’s Apparel, Jewelry, Children’s Clothing and Accessories, Fresh Flowers, Furniture, Gourmet Snacks, Fresh Coffee, Pastries, a beautifully stocked Garden Center and so much more.

Open: Mon.-Sat. 9 am-6 pm, Sun. 9 am-5 pm 112 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

201 East Bay Avenue, Manahawkin | 609. 597. 6099 | R ey nold s Ga rd enS h op . c om

bay-magazine.com 113

GET THE LOOK

T I T A E W S T ’ N DO The Low-Down on Natural Deodorants Written by Lisa Simek

Let’s talk about sweat. When you perspire, it is your body’s natural, built-in method of either regulating its temperature or secreting built up toxins. We all sweat, and yet there’s still quite a bit of misunderstanding about the vital role it plays within our body. For example, did you know that the unpleasant odor associated with sweat is not actually caused by the sweat itself? And nor are the yellow stains you might find in the underarms of your white t-shirts? Most of us manage our sweat with a deodorant or antiperspirant of some kind, and these products have become staples in many Americans’ hygiene routines. Just like shampoo, body wash, shaving cream, toothpaste, and lipstick, conventional deodorants and antiperspirants are made with chemicals that are hard to pronounce and may leave you scratching your head. Many recent studies have shown that we may be doing more harm than good by interrupting the body’s natural, toxin-eliminating processes. Antiperspirants rely on harmful ingredients to control odor and perspiration. So, not only do antiperspirants inhibit our bodies from detoxifying, but they also introduce new toxins into our bodies, such as aluminum and parabens—which undeniably have been linked in certain studies to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s. Dr Heather Patisaul, an associate professor of biology at North Carolina State University, has found that these ingredients found in common deodorant products could be disrupting our reproductive and developmental hormones. In an interview with Time Magazine, she said “When you eat something, it’s broken down by your liver and digestive 114 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

system, but when you put something on your skin, there are times when it can enter your bloodstream without being metabolized.” Blood tests have shown that many of these questionable ingredients in deodorant pass through the dermis and into our blood. After being absorbed into the body, some of the toxins then end up being stored in the cells under our arms. Guess where one of the largest cluster of lymph nodes in the human body is located? The armpits. So, do you want to stay fresh and dry sans chemicals? It’s time to look for a greener alternative to conventional deodorants and antiperspirants. The mechanism behind natural deodorant is really close to chemical deodorant: kill bacteria that causes the smell. Instead of aluminum and parabens (which effectively, once absorbed through the skin, function as added estrogen hormone in the body—a big no, no), many natural deodorants use a combination of coconut oil, cornstarch, baking soda, and essential oils. The coconut oil and essential oils are antimicrobial, the essential oil also provides some scent, the cornstarch, and baking soda change the pH of your armpits to a less friendly environment for the bacteria—the true culprits of body odor. There are great natural deodorant options, and below are just a few of our favorites. And remember, when in doubt, you can always look up the safety rating for your favorite deodorant on the nonprofit Environmental Working Group’s Skin-Deep website (or app): https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/browse/ category/antiperspirant__deodorant Take one small step for the planet and one giant leap for your personal hygiene. See you in the organic aisle.

Our Best Performers for Women

Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant Ulta Beauty

LoveFresh Super Strength Deodorant Amazon

Native Deodorant Eucalyptus & Mint, Target/Walmart

Our Best Performers for Men

Schmidt’s Water + Wood Deodorant, Target/Walmart

Sam’s Natural DeodorantOriginal Scent, Amazon

Arm & Hammer, Essentials with Natural DeodorizersClean Scent, CVS bay-magazine.com 115

Since 1976

lo Kitty H el Pl a

s Toy

Kites Craft D oll s

22nd & Long Beach Blvd. Ship Bottom, NJ 609-494-7228 www.haymarketlbi.com

els Rockets od B

Free Gift Wrapping OPEN ALL YEAR

116 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

G a me s P uzz Lego l i les ob m y

THEMODHATTER.COM 609-492-0999 1103 NORTH BAY AVENUE • BEACH HAVEN, NJ

CHECK OUT THE ALL NEW

Grand Wagoneer DiFeo’s

500 Rte. 72, Manahawkin

500 Route 72 • Manahawkin, NJ 08050 ManahawkinJeep.com

ManahawkinJeep.com (855) 942-2740

bay-magazine.com 117

FEATURE

Finding Joy in

Giving Back Written by Lisa Simek

Photos by Michael John Murphy

Interfaith Health & Support Services Promotes Health and Independence within Senior Citizen Community Through a Variety of Volunteer Support Services A partnership between Interfaith Health and Support Services, St. Francis Community Center, and Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center links elderly individuals in need with volunteers to provide companionship, assistance and connection to help them feel less isolated and meet basic needs, such as getting to medical appointments or grocery shopping. It also provides respite for people who are taking care of family members with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and vital community socialization opportunities for Southern Ocean County’s seniors.

118 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Nearly 30% of New Jersey’s population is over the age of 65. The Garden State’s housing index and average home healthcare costs make it one of the most expensive states to retire, and a major chunk of that senior citizen demographic resides in Ocean County. The fact of the matter is, as our senior population continues to age and becomes burdened with the loss of a spouse or loved one and the isolation that ensues, perpetual cognitive decline and functional mobility problems, it eventually becomes difficult for the elderly to continue to live on their own while upkeeping a home, paying bills, running every day errands, and shopping for/preparing meals. And this is exactly why, 25 years ago, a group of concerned Southern Ocean County residents banded together to form a coalition of healthcare professionals and volunteers to bridge the gap of services available to their fellow senior citizen community members in need. Interfaith Health & Support Services of Southern Ocean County (IHSS) is a non-profit organization located on the campus of Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin (serving Forked River to Manahawkin and all of LBI), and a second location in

Little Egg Harbor that serves West Creek south to New Gretna. Comprised of an alliance of 23 different congregations, social services, and health care organizations, they are a local 501(c)3 that provides physical, emotional and spiritual support to senior community members living at home who are vulnerable because of their age or a disability. Their mission is to promote wellness and independence by alleviating loneliness and hardships for the vulnerable members of the greater LBI regional community. From well-visits and transportation to and from medical appointments, to shopping and telephone reassurance check-in calls, pet therapy, in-home hair cutting to the home bound, Ocean County library socialization programs, and even Alzheimer’s disease respite care—all services are provided free of charge, by volunteer caregivers. Combatting senior isolation and access to home health care services is only the tip of the iceberg. After the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, IHSS has only expanded its services to include restocking local pantries with food gift cards and funds collected through a variety of fundraising events that include bingo night and designer

bay-magazine.com 119

120 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

FEATURE

bag tricky trays (this year’s designer bag bingo will take place on September 23 at the St. Mary’s Parish Center). However, in the current economic climate, just as many businesses are facing staffing shortages, IHSS too finds itself in desperate need of volunteer caregivers and support. Interested community members should know that volunteer commitment is an individualized obligation; volunteers may opt to spend 30 minutes per week or 10 hours, depending on how much time one desires to contribute. Any amount of dedication is always greatly appreciated. While many seniors want to age in place within their communities, many struggle to meet this goal, and this often results in them moving into long-term care facilities such as assisted living or nursing home facilities. The need for company, love, and support is not something that diminishes as we grow older, and a healthy social life is particularly important for seniors. Even if volunteers are unable to donate time as a medical transport driver, there are options to partake in the various socialization programs that assist older adults in meeting needs such as going grocery shopping, spending a day out in the community with friends or family and attending organized social activities such as “Lunch & a Craft” or “Lunch & a Movie” showings at the Surf City and Stafford (Ocean County) Libraries, any one of the organizations “Ride for Health” programs, or trips to Kens Kitchen and the Community Café, sponsored by Meals on Wheels.

To date, the Causeway Family of Dealerships has donated a sprinter van and a mini-van that both make their way all over the Southern Ocean County area to facilitate Interfaith’s “Ride for Health” program, which coordinates the medical appointment travel, delivery of prescription medication and regular transport to meal and social interaction programs for all of their senior clients to participate in, at no cost. The organization also hosts a large fundraiser annually which is called “Designer Bag Bingo,” and is held in September. It attracts several hundred bingo players to simultaneously enjoy a few games of bingo and a chance to win a designer handbag, while supporting Interfaith’s tireless efforts through much needed financial contributions. Coupled with the unwavering dedication of IHSS’s volunteers, the ability to assist and accompany even more senior citizens in need is slowly becoming a reality—although the organization notes there is never enough volunteers. They currently have over 250 volunteers and serve almost 400 care receivers in our area. In order for the elderly in our community to take advantage of community resources such as senior centers and religious organizations, more volunteers are always needed and appreciated. To learn more about volunteer opportunities for community members of all ages and commitment levels, please visit interfaithsoc.org or call the Manahawkin offices via 609-978-3839.

bay-magazine.com 121

Hotel, Dining, Weddings & More Hotel LBI offers the charm of a summer home paired with world class amenities. Relax in your well-appointed room, enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset on the rooftop, or escape for a day of fun in the sun on our majestic island.

HOTELLBI.COM | @HOTELLBI

Ann Coen Photography

122 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Ann Coen Photography

Joe Ticknow Photography

2 2 5 J A C K S O N S T R E E T C A P E M AY, N J freelovebridal.com

bay-magazine.com 123

Wedding Bliss

Sarah

124 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

and

Dave

WEDDINGS

WEDDINGS

126 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

HOW THEY MET? Dave and I met through mutual friends out one February night in New York City. Dave claims that we had gone out together before, but I had spent the whole night flirting with his other friend and therefore was too busy to notice him (To this day he does not blame me for flirting with said friend as he’s a “very attractive man.” Haha). I had my best friend’s engagement party the next evening so I really did not want to go out Friday night, but I got roped into an impromptu birthday celebration for my roommate and childhood best friend’s birthday with another childhood bestie. Our night started out with a bar crawl in Tribeca, where the 3 of us lived at the time. As the drinks continued to flow and we continued to bar hop, we decided we needed more people to join us to make this a proper party. My one friend had recently started seeing a guy in her building who went to NYU Stern Business school. She convinced her boyfriend (who is also now her husband) to meet us out at a bar called Nancy Whiskey Pub with some of his business school friends. For those that aren’t familiar with Nancy Whiskey, the best way to describe it is a no frills, hole-in-the-wall dive bar that is famous for its cheap drinks, good bar food and most importantly shuffleboard and jukebox. As we came to learn that night, the Nancy Whiskey crowd takes its shuffleboard very seriously and people come from all over the city to play. Both very competitive people, Dave and I hit it off immediately, bonding over some innocent trash talk to the other patrons we were playing against. We ended up closing out the bar which is a far cry from how I initially saw my Friday night going. As everyone was heading home, I was disappointed to learn from my friend that Dave had an off again/off again girlfriend. I woke up Saturday morning with a very long to-do-list, a bad headache and some minor anxiety that I had spent the entire night flirting with a guy with a girlfriend. I was surprised to receive a text from Dave asking to come meet me for breakfast. Curious as to what he could possibly have to say for himself, I told him to come meet me but cautioned he would also be tagging along on a lot of errands. When he showed up, he told me he had ended things with his girlfriend that morning for good. We spent the rest of the day together. Dave was a great sport accompanying me on all my various tasks that I needed to accomplish before the engagement party and we only parted ways later that evening when it was time for me to go to the party. We were pretty much inseparable from that point on.

bay-magazine.com 127

HOW HE PROPOSED? Dave proposed Christmas Eve 2020 in front of the Ridgewood Christmas tree. To give some long, but important backstory, there was some high drama in the 2 weeks leading up to Christmas. My family was set to go to Cabarate in the Dominican Republic the day after and if I am being entirely honest, I really thought that Dave was going to propose sometime while we were there. Dave’s passport expired in early November. He immediately sent it out for expedited renewal, but 2 weeks before Christmas, there was still no sign of it and even worse, when we called in to inquire about the status, nobody could tell us where in transit it was. Needless to say, things were looking pretty bleak. We decided that the only course of action we had was for Dave to beg the New York passport agency to give him an expedited passport. The agency, which was operating under limited staff, limited business hours, and by appointment only due to COVID restrictions, had been booked up for months at this point. The week of Christmas, Dave began traveling into the city to the passport agency every single day in hopes that he would get lucky and be able to convince one of the security guards to feel sorry enough for him that they would let him in the building without an appointment. Come Christmas Eve, he had sadly found no success despite his best efforts. Our best hope at this point was to pray for a Christmas miracle that his passport would somehow show up on Christmas Day or in the few days following so he could get on a flight and meet us in the DR. Fast forward to Christmas Eve morning, I headed home from our Jersey City apartment ahead of Dave who was wrapping up some last minute work things. The plan was for him to meet my family in Ridgewood later on for our huge 7 fish celebration with all our closest family friends. Even though this night is typically one of my favorite and most fun nights of the year, I was feeling pretty disappointed for a few reasons. Selfishly, all hopes I had of us getting engaged before the end of the year were crushed. I was also sad for Dave that he likely wasn’t going to be able to come on this special trip with us. Dave works very hard, often working 16 hours a day, and nobody needed or deserved this vacation more than him. I obviously did not know this at the time, but Dave was also using his time in the city to meet with our jeweler to get the ring finalized so he could potentially propose before we left for our trip in case his passport didn’t show. The only person who was clued in to Dave’s secret plan was my Dad, whose permission he had gotten (also unbeknownst to me) several weeks earlier. Together, they decided that my Dad would somehow find a way to get all of us to the Ridgewood Christmas tree after church where Dave would be waiting to pop the big question. Earlier in the day, my dad texted our family group chat asking for a family picture after Christmas Eve mass in front of the tree.This was/is a completely normal request of my Dad so none of us thought of anything of it at the time. My one sister, Caitie, opted not to come this year so she was meeting us there. As I later learned, she had also become involved in Dave’s master engagement plan after seeing texts come across my Dad’s phone earlier that morning (he can’t 128 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

WEDDINGS

see so the font on his phone is very large and easy to read from afar). After church, we all walked the 2 blocks over to the tree for our family picture. I thought Dave was still on his way from Jersey City, but Caitie had secretly driven him over with her. While I was busy trying to find a stranger to take our picture (something none of us had thought through) and my Dad was yelling at my Mom, other sister and brother who were all as clueless as me at that point to hurry up and get over to the tree, Dave came out from where he was hiding behind a parked car. I turned around when he was walking over to me. For some reason, my first thought was that he was surprising me with an early Christmas present by telling me that his passport had actually come in time, but what happened next was even better! He said some really sweet things about the night we first met and our journey together since (which I admittedly don’t exactly remember partly because I kind of blacked out and partly because everyone else in my family who didn’t know what was happening was screaming “OMG what is going on?”) and got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Easiest yes of my life!! We were then greeted by a chorus of car horns and cheers from family friends who had been driving home from church when they saw all this happening and pulled over to watch it go down. We went on to celebrate that night with all our closest family and friends at our annual 7 Fishes Christmas Eve party. Dave sadly did not make it to Cabarate with us, but I think it ended up being OK because after the emotional stress of the last few weeks, he was secretly a little thrilled to have some alone time to relax and do whatever he wanted! To this day, I cannot believe that both Dave and my Dad, who is notoriously the worst secret keeper ever, managed to surprise me after all. Everything about that night was absolutely perfect and everything I could have ever hoped for and more!

bay-magazine.com 129

WEDDINGS | PARTIES | SPECIAL EVENTS

130 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Photo Credit: Paul Francis Photography

www.BogathEvents.com (973) 477-1392 Jeanne@BogathEvents.com

bay-magazine.com 131

The

Rehearsal Written by Katie Hood

The rehearsal dinner is a very exciting part of the wedding weekend. This gives the couple a chance to mingle with their inner circle as well as to get everyone hyped for the big event. Once the venue is selected, the couple can concentrate on their theme or décor options, this dinner may be over the top and glam, or a more casual style event.

Photo by Alex Rivera for Ann Coen Studio 132 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

WEDDINGS

Since this evening tends to be more about the socializing and catching up with friends and family, it is very important that the flowers don’t create a visual impairment. We suggest doing smaller arrangements going down the length of the table. This can be a fun time to introduce a color pallet or style you love, but just couldn’t commit to for the big event. We love the look of clustered bud vases. Summer brides can even choose to clip flowers from the garden and place single blooms in a bottle or vase. Collected vessels can portray a more eclectic vibe, ideal for a relaxed setting. Some of the most common themes/pallets that we see trending for Long Beach Island rehearsal dinners are beachy chic, boho and earthy, citrus inspired, or bold and eclectic. The soft glow of candle light is also an amazing addition to this intimate affair. There are endless possibilities when it comes to candlelight sources from hurricanes and lanterns to tapers or votives, the gentle glow of natural light is always eye catching. We love including colored tapered candles and mercury votives to attain a romantic atmosphere.

Photo by Elizabeth Mae Photo Photo by Ann Coen Photography

Let the details of the “tablescape” create a setting reflective of the overall vibe you are trying to achieve. Make the event personal to you and your loved ones, and when possible make sure to either gift the centerpieces to your guests, or re-use them to decorate the “getting-ready” space for photos on the big day.

bay-magazine.com 133

WEDDINGS

Infinity Jewelry Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Goldsmithing. Stonesetting. Engraving. Casting. Torch Soldering. These are all basic artisanal skills employed by a bench jeweler when creating bespoke jewelry. And ones that Chris Biele, owner of Atlantic City Jewelry, employs on a daily basis. Passionate about understanding the ever-changing nuances of the jewelry industry, Chris is always on the lookout for innovative ways of doing things. Lately, he has fully embraced the cutting-edge technique of laser soldering to offer his customers something truly unique—permanent jewelry. Also known as infinity jewelry, it is simply a custom-made bracelet, necklace or anklet without a clasp, and it promises to be your favorite everyday accessory. The process is straightforward and the end result is subtle, yet beautiful. At his shop, Chris precisely measures the chain of your choosing. He then places it around your wrist, ankle or neck and microscopically welds the cut chain link back together, permanently anchoring the jewelry around you. And it seems that these days, so many of us are seeking things of more permanence. Whether it be something to ground us to the places and people central to our life or a commitment to sustainability, this new jewelry trend hits the mark. These impactful bracelets and necklaces are made to last and harbor an emotional statement, metaphorically linking us to the people or event central to the jewelry. How? Let’s dive a bit deeper. Given that it is essentially an endless chain that remains in place as an extension of you, the symbolism inherent in these pieces make them a perfect gift for many different occasions. They can be a meaningful romantic token or a modern take on friendship bracelets. Perhaps a mother will have bracelets fixed in place representing each one of her children. The permanent 134 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

welding of the chain marks a promise of love and commitment. Part of the inherent beauty in this type of jewelry, though, is about much more than meets the eye. The process itself is an experience which connects people together in a shared memory. Chris can even bring his equipment directly to a special event. He will pop up at your bachelorette party or bridal shower to craft an unforgettable keepsake for the women in your inner circle. Or, for a unique, upscale favor at your wedding, a permanent bracelet station alongside the cigar rolling bar will ensure that all of your guests remember your milestone event. Those who visit Chris’s storefront for their jewelry are also in for a treat. His working shop is truly a beacon of the ultimate local, personalized shopping experience. Chris’s wealth of knowledge and careful attention to each customer lends to a comfortable, informed atmosphere; the perfect backdrop for receiving your permanent jewelry. Additionally, repair work for all jewelry is always done on premises by Chris himself or one of his family members, a feature hard to find in the jewelry industry, but coveted by anyone with sentimental jewelry requiring the utmost care and promise of safety. Chris and his team provide a perfect blend of traditional bench jeweler skills with the latest innovations, resulting in exquisite, timeless pieces. He takes a no-frills approach to running his business, despite the nature of his product. His focus remains on providing quality jewelry with superior customer service, and his newest offering of permanent jewelry is no exception. A perfectly effortless bit of sparkle wrapped up in a memorable experience.

Estate Buyers

and Appraisers

437 Route 9 Bayville, NJ 732.269.6699 chris@atlanticcityjewerly.com Photo by Delaney Dobson bay-magazine.com 135

A BEACH HAVEN FAVORITE

101 SOUTH WEST AVE | BEACH HAVEN | 609.492.2300 | TUCKERSTAVERN-LBI.COM Bay Mag Half Page Vertical_TT 22.indd 1

Let’s Go Daddy O

5/13/2022 6:36:15 PM

eat, stay, play, repeat 4401 LONG BEACH BLVD.

BRANT BEACH, NJ

136 F10032_August BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022 2021_7.2375x4.625_Summer bay ads_PICKS.indd 2

609.494.1300

daddyorestaurant.com

5/12/21 11:50 AM

Kitchen + Pub, hotel adventure park , WEDdings + more Welcome to the ultimate destination for fun with friends and family! Located just a few miles from the coast, this one-of-akind destination offers everything you need to kick back and have some fun! From beautiful weddings and events to our laidback Kitchen + Pub, thrilling Adventure Park and Arcade come explore everything The Mainland has to offer.

THEMAINLANDNJ.COM | @THEMAINLAND

Ann Coen Photography

Ann Coen Photography bay-magazine.com 137

138 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

WEDDINGS

Boho BRIDE Styled Shoot

Planner Bogath Weddings & Events Photos by Michael John Murphy for Born by the Sea

140 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

WEDDINGS

bay-magazine.com 141

142 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

WEDDINGS

bay-magazine.com 143

Craft Beer Barrel Aged Cocktails

New American Food

Local Farms

R A W F R E S H

B A R

L O C A L

W E D D I N G

S E A F O O D

R E C E P T I O N S

P R I V A T E R E H E A R S A L

E V E N T S D I N N E R S

C E R E M O N I E S

A T

T H E

L I G H T H O U S E Brunch Saturday and Sunday Happy Hour Daily Oysters Rehearsal Dinners Showers Private Parties Open Daily Year Round

O P E N

Y E A R

R O U N D

D A I L Y

L U N C H | D I N N E R | B R U N C H H A P P Y

H O U R

4TH ST, BARNEGAT LIGHT 1302 Long Beach Blvd, Ship Bottom New Jersey 08008 (609) 494-8848 arlingtonlbi.com 144 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

NEW JERSEY 08006 609.494.2100 DAYMARKLBI.COM

bay-magazine.com 145

WEDDINGS

146 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

A Rustic Wedding Written by Calla Aniski Boyd

Photos by Ann Coen

The Farm On Main is a family owned private farm tucked away on South Main Street in West Creek, NJ, located just 15 minutes from Long Beach Island. The property is dotted with picturesque features including a pond and dock, a beautifully rustic metal barn, a quaint farmhouse, and a small - yet promising - fruit orchard. Two new structures will be completed next year: a full wedding barn and a horse barn with pastures. These two projects will be worth the wait for prospective event hosts; both additions will bring a unique feel to the classic farm wedding experience.

bay-magazine.com 147

WEDDINGS

As the popularity of outdoor weddings and events continues to rise, the new wedding barn at The Farm On Main will be a great fit for many couples. The large timber frame barn, with a 200 guest capacity, will be located next to the pond and surrounded by trees, providing a peaceful backdrop for wedding celebrations. This new structure will boast oversized side doors that can transform the space to help create an open-air feel while still offering coverage from inclement weather. The wedding barn will match the new horse stable: the focal point of the farm from Route Nine, helping to identify the property for guests arriving at events. While the venue’s aesthetic appeal is very important, the owners are not only focused on how The Farm on Main appears; they have also spent a great amount of time sourcing talented local vendors to provide various event services that fit the overall vision of the farm and the customized guest experience. The owners of the Farm on Main, Tom and Jessica Scangarello, are local business people with roots in the community. Their love for the farm has blossomed over the years, along with their plans for cultivating the property and creating a beautiful event space. Eventually, the grounds will also include greenhouses and open space for farming, which will be used to grow various types of plants. Initially, the Scangarellos’ admiration of the outdoors and enjoyment of landscaping had motivated them to create this space: a modest farm, with room to spend time as a family. Now, they are excited to expand this vision and share one of their favorite places with others during wedding days and other special occasions. The Farm on Main is currently offering group tours, private tours, and special booking offers for couples who book in advance for next year. For more information, visit thefarmonmainnj.com or @thefarmonmain on Instagram and Facebook.

148 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 149

WEDDINGS

JUST MARRIED! Written by Denise Petti

When it comes to hosting an island wedding, there are certainly plenty of moving parts. Quite literally. Take, for instance, transportation. Whether chauffeuring the bride and groom, shuttling a bridal party or transferring a full roster of guests from sea to celebration, ushering an entourage of eager mainlanders to the most important event of a bride’s life is a complex logistic capable of exasperating even the most skilled event planning masterminds.

150 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

In seeking to create a memorable wedding experience that is both comfortable and convenient for the bridal party and guests, betrothed couples face no shortage of demands. Aspects such as timing and availability of transportation are essential for navigating a successful series of ceremony elements which feel not only seamless, but special and memorable. Trolleys and shuttles are the hottest thing going for wedding day transportation, especially at the Jersey Shore. ShooBoo Trolley and Shuttle Company, based out of Manasquan, is one of the popular wedding transportation companies on and around LBI. In fact, the company serviced 658 weddings last year and are on pace to serve anywhere between 750 to 800 weddings in 2022. A reputable, private transportation service company. ShooBoo provides comfort, convenience, and safety with a fleet of clean and well-maintained shuttles that can accommodate any and all party sizes. Their team of professional drivers are dedicated to working efficiently and on time to ensure that brides and bridal parties, as well as guests, enjoy their travel plans with a variety of solutions to enjoy the ride. Mike Grieco, Director of Operations, of ShooBoo Trolley and Shuttle Company, says when it comes to service, his company is all about excellence and integrity. This is key for impressing today’s brides, who are placing increased value on trolleys and shuttles for their wedding day transportation services. “Trolleys sell themselves,” Grieco says. “It’s my job at our company to make sure that we don’t just pull up with a clean, white trolley. It’s really the customer service experience that goes with it that makes all the difference.” Grieco got his start in the transportation business in 2004, running shuttle service in Atlantic City from the Borgata to Brigantine Beach. From there, Grieco says business just got bigger and bigger until eventually their demand went beyond simple shuttle service. “Our business model from the first day we started was to be all high-end vehicles and service,” Grieco says. bay-magazine.com 151

WEDDINGS

With that, Shore Luxury Limos was born, handling airport transportation service and day trips, whether it be a ride to Atlantic City or a bachelorette party headed to New York for a night on the town, from school trips and fundraisers to church outings and proms. In 2017 Grieco learned that a small, local shuttle service called ShooBoo Shuttle was being offered up for sale by a single mom. She had a couple of vehicles that, according to Grieco, were “getting a little long in the tooth” and needed replacement. Grieco and his team determined that with her contacts in the wedding industry, especially on LBI, that it would be worth taking a shot. “We bought our first trolley already built off the floor in Las Vegas that year at the limousine convention,” Grieco adds. “It was a shot in the dark, but it was something that I’ve always thought would do well.” Additional identical trolleys have been built, one per year ever since, with two more recently delivered in preparation for the 2022 wedding season. “Everything is built specifically for the customer’s needs,” Grieco says. “We now have five trolleys, all built by the same manufacturer out of Wisconsin. Each one looks exactly the same. We could line them up and you won’t be able to tell the difference of one through five.” 152 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

As for competitors, there were a few trolley and shuttle companies in the area, most out of business now, not having survived the economic downturn of the pandemic. With the cancellation of large gatherings and events, most transport vehicles were relegated to early retirement and fell into disrepair. “The hardest part of the pandemic was not knowing what was going on at the beginning,” Grieco says, “The governor pulled the plug instantly, on everything. Couples could no longer have the celebrations they had envisioned due to mandated shut-downs of large gatherings and events.” For the brides back in March 2020, whose celebrations were imminent, that meant scrambling to secure a new date at the same or different venue within a month, or six weeks, or whenever they could find a place to accommodate them. This resulted in perpetual postponements or even total revamps. “I’ve got to give the brides and their families credit,” Grieco says. “They got very creative, especially in the LBI area, where they were renting houses next to each other, putting tents up in between them and throwing their weddings. The dance floors were outside in tents and everybody just made it happen. They made it work and got it done.”

As Grieco recalls, some weddings were moved four or five times, with the last of the postponed 2020 weddings just recently having wrapped up in December of 2021. Despite the challenges they faced, Grieco’s company managed to persevere under the circumstances. Looking ahead, all the weddings on ShooBoo’s schedule are now strictly new reservations and finally no longer Covid related. In addition to enduring the issues of the pandemic, they were still able to conduct the Annual Holiday Trolley Toy Drive to collect toy donations for local children during the winter season. Even with Covid restrictions, local businesses wishing to contribute were able to host contact-free collection bins that allowed customers to safely drop off their toy donations. On the day of collection, Grieco, Santa and his helpers masked up and drove the iconic Winter White Trolley to collect donations and drop them off to beneficiaries’ Freehold PBA, Brick PAL, and A Need We Feed. Due to their efforts and philosophy on charity, they changed the lives of many local New Jersey families during an especially difficult holiday season. Having successfully ridden the wave of the pandemic, ShooBoo successfully secured a strong foothold all along New Jersey, from Long Branch to Long Beach Island and beyond. Common inquiries include requests for additional transportation vehicles such as private car service, stretch limousines, classic cars, even luxury exotics. Still, wedding trolleys remain the company’s leading source of revenue. In fact, the number one phone call that ShooBoo receives from day to day are in request of

their high-end white trolleys and wedding shuttles. “We’re not in competition with anyone because our trolleys are built differently,” Grieco says. “ShooBoo trolleys have wooden floors, wooden ceilings, and patios. They are all white, custom-built, with high-end quality interiors,“ In addition to beauty and the charm of the wedding trolleys themselves, it’s the logistical finesse that ShooBoo brings to the customer experience that makes all the difference. “Everything with a wedding is approximate timing,” Grieco says. “Nothing Is etched in stone. We secure the vehicles, which is the most important thing, then we move forward with our itineraries. If it’s a trolley for the whole bridal party, we’ll finalize everything within one to two weeks of the wedding.” So, when it comes to keeping things running smoothly, seamlessly and on time, brides now have one less thing to worry about on their wedding day. With ShooBoo on task to manage just one of many moving parts, couples can rest assured and rely on the safe delivery of both bridal party and bride, groomsmen and guests. With that, the focus can remain squarely on the most important part of the day. Grieco would agree, “Hey, nobody wants to host a wedding and then find out the next morning that Uncle Joe’s missing brunch because he got locked up.” Good point, ShooBoo. Good point.

bay-magazine.com 153

WEDDING E X P O™

Bliss

JERSEY SHORE’S PREMIER WEDDING EXPO

S AV E TH E DATE M A RCH 26, 2023 Wedding Bliss Expo is a brand in the world of exquisite and luxurious weddings. The Wedding Bliss Expo show is for brides with high attention to detail and interests in the finest design-led products and services. Our stunning centrally-located venue of Hotel LBI will be transformed into a wedding wonderland to delight both couples and the industry alike as attendees are introduced to the area’s top creative professionals, industry leaders, planners, entertainers and vendors while enjoying a chance to network, exchange ideas and walk away empowered and inspired. 154 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay magazine

For more information contact gary@bay-mag.com

bay-magazine.com 155

WEDDINGS

Written by Carolyn Mijal

Weddings make up some of our most cherished and memorable moments in life. While planning your special day, you may feel as though bubbling anticipation is floating to the surface like tiny champagne bubbles with each step of the way. Dutifully checking off items on a check list and finally when all of the preparation and planning is complete you get to enjoy the day that you have been planning and working for. But how do you get from Pinterest Boards and ideas to reality? The Wedding Bliss Expo is the brainchild of Bay Magazine, Bogath Weddings & Events and Weddings of Distinction, which cater to the top tier of the Long Beach Island’s bridal market. Gary Henderson and Farrell Dunleavy, co-founders of Bay Magazine, with Jeanne Coon-Bogath, the owner and lead

156 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Photos by Amanda Bonneau Photography

planner of Bogath Weddings and Events, have joined forces to carefully curate a one-of-a-kind opportunity that provides the best hand-picked roster of high-quality exhibitors. The stunning centrally located venue of Hotel LBI is transformed into a wedding wonderland to delight both couples and the industry alike as attendees are introduced to the area’s top creative professionals, industry leaders, planners, entertainers, and vendors while enjoying a chance to network, exchange ideas and walk away empowered and inspired. My goodness how I wish I had known about this for my own wedding, and I had to plan mine twice! (Thanks pandemic.) This process can seems like an opposing of emotions: on the one hand there is the

of excitement of planning your own wedding and yet, there is an ever-simmering feeling of stress and it is perfectly understandable considering all of the decisions that you and your fiancé are making. Sitting down with Jeanne Coon-Bogath and having the chance to discuss all things weddings made me want to get married all over again. On Sunday March 27, 2022 the second LBI Wedding Bliss Expo was held at Hotel LBI in Ship Bottom. This carefully curated event is an opportunity of a lifetime for soon to be brides. They have the ability to interact with so many potential vendors. All vendors present are hand-picked for their outstanding quality and attention to detail. The event is held in Hotel LBI’s Conservatory, and it becomes the most captivating and enchanting space allowing the imaginations of the soon to be Brides run wild. “We place a CAP on the number of vendors at the Expo” Jeanne said, “we want to retain an atmosphere of intimacy for the brides and couples attending so they have the opportunity to see and interact with everyone here and potentially see which vendor is the best fit.” If you have ever been to a traditional Wedding Expo, the experience can be as daunting as scrolling through countless Google searches when you are in the early stages of planning. The LBI Wedding Bliss Expo is exactly what its namesake suggests… blissful. Wedding Bliss Expo is a curated experience that yields a mutually beneficial relationships between prospective clients and vendors. In this type of intimate environment vendors can show and delve deeper into the services that they provide. Brides can see tangible examples of what they have been planning and start to piece together the vision for their wedding day. The joy of the dream becoming a reality is immeasurable. An “ah-ha” moment personified when you find the one element that will tie your entire day together. No two brides are the same and while the planning process has its intricacies, having the resources to help guide you through the wedding journey makes all the difference. The endless stages of prep and planning are a lot to take on all by yourself; the aid of a wedding planner in addition to your venues coordinator can help alleviate having to focus on all the details at once and allow you to be present and in the moment. The Wedding Expo allows brides to network with these professionals. The opportunity to talk with vendors and wedding professionals beforehand expands a couples knowledge base beyond a venues “preferred vendor list” to open endless possibilities. bay-magazine.com 157

WEDDINGS

Summer Wedding Tips: Ring Cleaning: Ring cleaning is essential especially when taking engagement and wedding photos. Taking the time to make sure that your nails are manicured is a no brainer, why not make sure the ring gets a little polish too? The little extra sparkle will make your ring pop in all of the photos. Take the Flip-flops, leave the heels: For beach weddings of course. Beach weddings are so romantic and while the option to walk on the beach bare foot is tempting trust the experts, wear flip-flops. Not only will your feet be protected for the ceremony you won’t have to risk having your shoes get stuck in the sand. There is plenty of time to showcase the wedding shoes throughout the day. For more information about the 2023 Wedding Expo and to read about featured vendors you can visit: weddingblissexpo.com

LBI Venue Spotlight: The LBI Foundation for Arts & Sciences (LBIF Arts + Science) is a unique and inspiring non-profit organization in Loveladies. While they provide art and science education throughout the year, they are perfect for a couple who is looking for a unique venue and share a love of the creative side of life. For an intimate wedding the venue can hold approximately 100 people indoors, for weddings that are larger they can accommodate 400 people in a stunning tent outdoors. The LBIF is a fantastic option for creative couples.

158 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

SW EE

T S

QUE TI

PASTRIES

Donut Wall Rental

Great for any Occasion

FROM

For more info

info@bay-mag.com 203-240-4269

CUSTOM

SCR ATCH

CAKES

DESSERT SWEE T

DISPL AYS

TABLES

HOLI DAY

GIF TS

S W E E T M E L I S S AG O O D N E S S . CO M bay-magazine.com 159

160 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

@brownie.jpg

Boat Up Social, Marina, Outdoor Beer Garden, Boat fuel, Rentals + More The Boatyard is a gathering place to come together for casual food and drink, meet up with your family and friends, play games, and enjoy a day on the bay. We also offer boat rentals, marina slips & storage, fuel for boats & personal watercraft for crabbing and fishing on the bay.

THEBOATYARDNJ.COM | @THEBOATYARDNJ

bay-magazine.com 161

162 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

FEED YOUR MIND

We are truly honored by the way our Long Beach Island community has embraced bay Magazine and grateful beyond words for how much remarkable home-grown storytelling has been accomplished in such a short span of time. Since our launch in 2014, we have had the privilege of encountering the most talented and inspiring people, many of whom we now consider our dearest friends, even family. It has been an amazing journey, such that words can’t express how much gratitude we have for the residents and visitors of LBI that have welcomed and supported our publications so enthusiastically throughout these years. Considering our love for Long Beach Island and the surrounding area—it’s rich and diverse culture, unmatched seasonal fare—we were compelled to create a unique cookbook that we would call our own. As luck would have it, Julianna Welker introduced us to Sue Von Brachel and Robin Chase, who not only happened to have impressive backgrounds as food stylist and photographer for various restaurants and food business around New Jersey, but who were fans of the Feed your Mind section of bay Magazine. After joining our team to produce the food portion of the publication, we knew a cookbook collaboration with this brilliant duo was inevitable. Feed your Mind Long Beach Island’s Cookbook is our collective interpretation of the best gastronomy experience that Long Beach Island has to offer. These simple recipes, created by Sue Von Brachel and Robin Chase who also embrace the laid-back island lifestyle, include locally-sourced seafood, farm-fresh produce and regional ingredients—which are the true secrets to perfecting each one of these dishes with minimal effort. We want you to invite your friends over, pour a glass of wine, and not only enjoy the stunning island sunset and refreshing breeze, but also revel in the incredible tastes, smells, and culinary retreat that LBI has to offer. These pages are dedicated to local oysters, clams, Barnegat Bay scallops, tilefish, lobster, swordfish, monkfish and many more of the most delectable seafood in the world that happens to be found in our very own waters. Our dedication, enthusiasm and passion for developing these recipes is substantiated within each and every page of this cookbook. We hope you will love making these recipes as much as we did inventing, sourcing, preparing, perfecting, and (most of all) enjoying them.

Purchase your Cookbook at bay-magazine.com bay-magazine.com 163

164 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

FEED YOUR MIND

Mini Crab Cakes with Garlic Lemon Aioli Aioli Ingredients: ½C. Mayonnaise 2 tsp. fresh chopped fresh Chives, plus thinly sliced chives for garnish 2 tsp. chopped fresh flat leaf Parsley 2 tsp. fresh Lemon juice ½ Garlic clove, minced Crab Cake Ingredients: ¼ cup finely chopped Red Bell Pepper 1 T. chopped fresh Parsley 3 T. Mayonnaise 2 tsp. Dijon Mustard 2 tsp. fresh Lemon Juice 1 tsp. Old Bay Seasoning ½ tsp. ground Black Pepper ¾ cup Panko (Japanese breadcrumbs) 1 lb. Fresh Lump Crabmeat 1 tsp. Olive Oil Lemon wedges, for garnish Prepare Aioli: Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and set aside. Prepare Crab Cakes: Preheat oven to 350°. Combine bell pepper and next 6 ingredients (through black pepper) in a large bowl; stir well. Add breadcrumbs and crabmeat. Divide the crab mixture and shape into 1” cakes. Heat oil in a large ovenproof skillet (such as a cast iron) coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Add cakes to brown, about 2 minutes per side. Place pan in oven; bake at 350° for 6 minutes.

Serves 4

bay-magazine.com 165

FEED YOUR MIND

Fresh Tomato and Endive Salad Ingredients: 1 pint each of red, yellow and orange cherry or grape tomatoes, halved 1 endive, thinly sliced Pea sprouts ¼ cup of olive oil 2 T of white balsamic vinegar Salt & pepper to taste Preparation: Cut the tomatoes in half. Mix them with thinly sliced endive and pea shoots. Preparation of vinaigrette: Mix well olive oil and vinegar together. Add salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle over salad.

Serves 4

166 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 167

168 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

FEED YOUR MIND

Spiked Lemonade Ingredients: 1 cup Fresh Lemon Juice 1 cup Sugar ½ cup Vodka Seltzer Water Fresh Rosemary Sprigs Ice Preparation: Bring lemon juice, sugar to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring until sugar has dissolved, then reduce heat and simmer two minutes. Cool completely.

Serve Fill four (8-oz) glasses halfway with ice. Divide syrup (about two tablespoons each) among glasses and add vodka ( 1 T. e a c h ) . A d d s e l t z e r to each glass and garnish with rosemary sprig.

Serves 4

bay-magazine.com 169

FEED YOUR MIND

Gazpacho with Lump Crab Meat Ingredients: 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 yellow pepper, chopped ½ red onion, chopped 4 small tomatoes, chopped 1 cucumber, seeded and chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 3 C. tomato juice ¼ C. white balsamic vinegar ¼ C. olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish 6 oz. fresh lump crab meat Preparation: Chop the peppers, red onion, tomatoes, cucumber and into one-inch pieces. Put each vegetable separately into a food processor and pulse until it is coarsely chopped. After chopping, add them to a large bowl and mix in the garlic, tomato juice, vinegar, and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix very well and chill.

Serves 4-6

Serve Add soup to individual cups or bowls and top with f r e s h c r a b m e a t a n d g a rn i s h w i t h f r e s h p a r s l e y.

170 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

bay-magazine.com 171

172 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

FEED YOUR MIND

Mussels with Tomatoes, Thyme, Garlic and White Wine Ingredients: 2 lbs. fresh Mussels 2 T. Butter 1 cup Onion, finely chopped ½ tsp. Salt ½ tsp. fresh ground Black Pepper 2 cloves Garlic, chopped 1 carton Grape Tomatoes, halved 1 cup White Wine 2 T. fresh Thyme plus fresh Thyme sprigs Preparation: In a large pan, melt butter. Add the onions, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring, for four minutes. Add the garlic and tomatoes, and cook, stirring, for one minute. Add the wine, thyme, and bring to a boil. Add the mussels, cover, and cook until the shells have opened, about four minutes.

Serves 4

Serve Remove from the heat and discard any shells that do not open. Serve and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.

bay-magazine.com 173

Plan your next visit with us! Serving Dinner BYOB Private Parties and Catering Available

Ship Bottom, NJ

FINE DINING O P E N AT 5 P M THE SAND BAR O P E N D A I LY AT 11 : 3 0 A M OCEANFRONT HOTEL 3 0 E N G L E S I D E AV E B E A C H H AV E N , N J 800-762-2214 W W W. E N G L E S I D E . C O M

174 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

GANICS • GRO

Always

• DE

E UC

R •O

FRESH F a m i l y o w n ed S i n c e 1 9 9 4

Online Ordering with Curbside Pick-up Available www.anchor-produce.myshopify.com Oceanfront Hotel 30 Engleside Ave Beach Haven,NJ

21st Street & Blvd. Surf Citywww.Engleside.com | 609-494-7097 800-762-2214 Open 7 Days a Week 8am - 8pm - In Season

bay-magazine.com 175

Photo by Michael John Murphy

176 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

FEED YOUR MIND

INGREDIENT for SUCCESS Written by Sunsan Field

With the kitchen as his classroom, Richard Vaughan’s love of learning has served him well in 38 years in the restaurant industry

Richard Vaughan, chef and owner at Bistro 14 Oyster Bar & Restaurant in Beach Haven, didn’t grow up with grand aspirations to be a cook or a restaurant owner. Instead, he had visions of becoming a Medieval Studies professor. Working in restaurants began as a way to help fund his education, first when he studied English and history at the University of Delaware, and then when he pursued a master’s degree in Medieval Studies at UCLA. Along the way, it became clear that some of his greatest real-life lessons were taking place in the kitchens of the restaurants he worked at. With the mindset that everyone is a teacher, Vaughan paid attention to the expertise of his colleagues and absorbed information that helped him hone his craft. “You can’t be in the kitchen without learning. Almost everyone knows more than you. Everyone knows some trick or a process that makes your life easier.

bay-magazine.com 177

FEED YOUR MIND

If you’re a curious person, you can learn from everybody,” says Vaughan, who lives with his wife Karen, general manager of Bistro 14, and their three children, in Spray Beach. This philosophy has served Vaughan well throughout his 38 years in the restaurant industry, where he has worked from the ground up. Vaughan grew up in Claymont, D.E., and spent summers on LBI. He got his first restaurant job in the summer of 1983 between high school and college. He started washing dishes at The Gourmet’s Mooring in Bay Village in Beach Haven and returned each summer, learning all the cooking stations, until eventually, becoming a line cook. “I didn’t think much of it. They paid me really well, I had a lot of fun, and it was a good way to finance my bad decisions,” Vaughan says with a laugh, about his academic pursuits in Medieval Studies. When he moved to the West Coast for his master’s degree, he continued to cook and work at restaurants in California. At the end of his coursework, he ultimately decided not to enter the PhD program, moved back to Delaware to get his teaching certificate, and married Karen Deitz, whom he had met in the summer of 1986 at The Gourmet’s Mooring. After years of working in restaurants in Delaware, in 1992, the Vaughans got an opportunity to buy Nugent’s Famous Seafood, a restaurant located across the street from The Gourmet’s Mooring. They decided to give owning their own restaurant a try. “We really liked our summers at the beach, and if we hadn’t bought the restaurant, we wouldn’t have had any excuse to come back!” Vaughan says.

178 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

The Vaughans renamed the restaurant Great Bay Seafood Company and it was their life for the next decade. Karen usually worked the “front of the house” as a server and manager, while Rich worked in the “back of the house” in the kitchen. They continued learning, growing, and networking, eventually expanding into the catering business. “It was a small place, so it was a good way to learn to manage a restaurant on the fly. It taught us a lot about business,” Vaughan says. Just when they were starting to feel comfortable, in 2004 another opportunity came their way. J.B. Maschal, owner of Bay Village, approached the Vaughans about leasing The Gourmet’s Mooring. At first, they weren’t interested, but the more they thought about it, the more they realized that Great Bay Seafood had plateaued because of its size. “I knew ‘The Mooring’ very well—forwards and backwards. We started to think what more we could do, if we had a larger space,” Vaughan says. The Vaughan’s decided to “go for it.” They sold their restaurant and moved across the street. They didn’t want to maintain the status quo; however, they wanted to make their new restaurant unique. The first orders of business were to change the menu and the name. Their vision was to create a classic LBI restaurant that offered fresh seasonal bounty, but with a French bistro’s flair. “I wanted to show people that you can eat French food without it being high-falutin with small portions and swirly sauces,” Vaughan says. “People think of French food as very fancy, and in some cases, it is, but in other cases, it’s just food with more wine!”

Photo by Michael John Murphy bay-magazine.com 179

FEED YOUR MIND

Photos by Michael John Murphy

The Bistro’s name is based on the flight of stairs up to the entrance. There are 14 steps, and on the day the Vaughan’s counted them, it was also their 14th wedding anniversary, so the name “Bistro 14” was born. At the top of the steps was a wine bar the Vaughan’s decided to repurpose as a raw bar, featuring fresh shrimp, crab, clams, and oysters. It was the first of its kind on the island to offer a wide variety of oysters from across the country. Now its offerings are a celebration of the return of the local oyster industry. On the Bistro’s opening day in 2004, the raw bar offered a selection of oysters from New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Washington. When Vaughan’s Littleneck Clam supplier, Chris Scales, arrived with a good luck offering of Maxwell Shellfish Co. oysters— harvested off Graveling Point, N.J.— Vaughan was astonished. He had no idea about the rich history of oysters in the back bays of NJ., but it only took one taste to convince him. Graveling Point oysters haven’t left the raw bar menu since. Before 1950, LBI was among the best oyster harvesting bays in the country, until a plague hit the bay and killed all the oyster beds. In the last couple decades, the resurrection of the oyster industry on LBI has been an ongoing success that is appreciated by Bistro 14 and its customers every day. “The last couple of years, I’ve only featured local oysters from Mantoloking down to Cape May,” Vaughan says. “I tell people that they’re not going to find an oyster better than Barnegat Bay’s oysters! I’ll put our oysters up against all comers. Our oysters have a real fresh, clean, bright salinity up front. There’s a sweetness to them that’s delightful. They’re very clean off the palate.” 180 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

With decades in the restaurant business under his belt, Vaughan relishes in sharing his culinary wisdom with those learning the trade. His philosophy of cooking is that it’s simple and anyone can learn it with practice. Cooking doesn’t take a lot of skill, but rather, a general knowledge of basic techniques that can be applied to any recipe. “Once you learn a technique, such as how to fry, you can make any fried dish. Once you learn how to grill, you can make any grilled dish. Once you learn how to braise, you can make any braised dish,” Vaughan says. “ I tell the kids who work for me, ‘there’s no recipe here [at the Bistro] that you can’t do if you take the time to master the underlying technique.’” Vaughan credits a large part of his success to Karen, and has no plans to stop cooking, learning, or sharing his knowledge any time soon. “The restaurant industry is always interesting, always challenging,” he says. “Food and cooking: I love it now more than ever!”

A CL ASSIC mix of S H O R E F O O D OYSTER BAR & RESTAURANT

Serving Lunch and Dinner

Featuring Sharrott Wine

bistro14lbi.com 830 North Bay Ave Beach Haven | 609.492.6100 bay-magazine.com 181

Quarter Century

Celebration Written by Denise Petti

Nestled amid quaint original homes and unique shops on Long Beach Boulevard in Surf City, a little white cottage sits clean, modest and unassuming. Strolling by, one is immediately struck with the aroma of savory, mouth watering delicacies emanating from within. The olfactory grasp gives way to instant cravings, and this is the exact effect one distinct eatery has had on LBI locals for over two decades now. In fact, 2022 marks the twenty-five year anniversary for this highly regarded fine dining establishment known as Yellowfin.

no was anxious to live with her grandparents in the Sunshine State. After a few years, Guardino ultimately followed her heart and wound up back in New York, this time upstate in Windham. As she recalls, “I was a ski bum,” and it was there she would go on to meet a talented chef named Greg Mann, who would later become her husband and business partner. While the marriage itself was not destined to last, the fruit of the marriage would, in fact, become the Yellowfin legacy, now a quarter century old and counting.

Self-dubbed as the place on the island for “Inventive American Dining,” Yellowfin is an intimate spot for enjoying creative, seafood-focused American cuisine with exotic accents. Restaurateur, Gina Guardino, has been delivering gastronomical delights from Surf City to bon vivants hailing from the metro-area and beyond, with her inventive, elevated menu. This dining experience brings together a combination of the region’s freshest, local seafood with an intricate preparation that champions French technique. The result is a bold, sophisticated twist on quintessential seashore dishes that introduces the island’s food connoisseurs to a nuanced understanding of local cuisine.

Having had prior experience managing the finances for various restaurants, Guardino was inspired to entertain the idea of making a more lucrative career move into food service. She began hostessing and sometime around 1992, she and Mann decided to make a summer trip to LBI to spend a full season working in the restaurant business on the island.

Guardino first got her start in the food business quite literally by accident. She had been living in Florida after having followed her grandmother there shortly after graduating high school. A Staten Island native, Guardi182 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Guardino and Mann began painting the mental picture of what life could be like, were they to open up a fine dining establishment of their own. By 1994, they had set their sights on the North End of LBI. At the time, one of the only other truly high-end restaurants on the island was the now-closed Eighth and Central restaurant, located in Barnegat Light. There seemed to be a substantial need for high end dining options, a hole they were confident they could fill. It was this chance series of events that served to lay Yellowfin’s iconic foundation.

FEED YOUR MIND

A few short years later, in 1997, Guardino and Mann decided once and for all to go for it. They cast their eyes on an available property in Surf City, formerly Rafaello’s. They moved forward with a lease-purchase option and by year 2000, they owned the deed. Fast-forward to 2022 and Yellowfin is now widely hailed as one of the finest dining establishments on the island. “We buy only the finest ingredients,” Guardino says. “We’re not going to serve just any piece of chicken. We’re going to buy organic, farm-raised chicken and seafood, like really thick West Coast halibut. We don’t mess around.” From their Five Spiced Duck Breast to Braised Short Ribs, Yellowfin covers practically all the bases. Whether you’re craving a savory seafood dish like Charmoula Grilled Salmon or you prefer a veggie plate like Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese over Wild Greens, every meal is prepared at the very highest quality with the utmost attention paid to high-end presentation. The Yellowfin team is equally delightful. Exceptionally loyal, Guardino’s many servers and chefs have returned multiple seasons over. She regards her crew a tight-knit family with so many staff members coming back to work, summer after summer, year after year. It seems the customers are the grateful beneficiaries as well, since they keep coming back year after year too. “My clients and my crew know a lot about me. I’m an open book,” she says. According to Guardino, there are even some who have tried every which way to imitate Yellowfin’s proprietary concept, the customer service model, the menu selections, the company culture and even the overall approach to the culinary experience, “Just about everything we have going on,” she says. If imitation is the highest form of flattery, perhaps it’s the unique relationships and history that Guardino shares with her team and clientele that sets Yellowfin apart. “There’s an expression,” Guardino says. “Often imitated, never duplicated. We are getting twenty-five year anniversary t-shirts printed up and that phrase is going to go right on the back.”

“We’re family here. We’ve spent a lot of years together and we are going to be celebrating it all season. I have my whole crew back. Everybody loves them and they love everyone. I’m really grateful to be here and excited to celebrate twenty-five years with everybody and party with the whole crew.” When not serving five star dishes in New Jersey. Gina spends her time in Florida. After the season winds down, she relocates to Florida for the off-season, volunteering at local animal shelters and donating her time doing beach cleanups. She returns each May and stays until October, working some ninety-plus hour weeks in peak season. “We are here to accommodate, delight, surprise, and be that consistent source of quality dining,” Guardino says. “People come to enjoy their dinner. We like to try new things. We do a lot of good stuff, and we are going to introduce some new dishes into the lineup.” With such special treatment offered to the clientele, it’s no wonder Yellowfin is rated as highly as it is. It is a small, intimate dining experience, with seating limited to only about eighty guests indoors, and additional overflow offered beneath the outdoor tent during pleasant summer evenings. “When you walk in here, everyone knows who you are,” Guardino says. “We learn the little nuances about each other, where someone likes to sit, little things like an open bottle of Pellegrino with lemons on the table. These things matter.” So whether you are celebrating a romantic night out or getting the girls together for a fun and festive bachelorette party, when you think of a nice meal, complete with ambiance, you can look forward to your visit to Yellowfin. It is the kind of place you go, Guardino suggests, “for a real, grown-up dinner.” Plan on being wooed into what will undoubtedly be one of the most delectable and memorable epicurean experiences of your life. “We’re just so happy that we are twenty-five years old now,” Guardino says. “It seems like yesterday we opened our doors for the first time. I can’t believe it’s been twenty-five years, it truly blows my mind. It’s just amazing to me and I’m so grateful.”

bay-magazine.com 183

COUNTRY CORNER FARM MARKET BEST PIE’S ON LBI

184 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

275 W 9TH STREET SHIP BOTTOM, NEW JERSEY 609 494 0667

N E W YO R K C I T Y R E S TA U R A N T AT T H E J E R S E Y S H O R E

THE ORIGINAL

O F T E N I M I TAT E D N E V E R D U P L I C AT E D

O P E N D A I LY 2 4 T H & L O N G B E A C H B LV D , S U R F C I T Y R E S E R VAT I O N S R E C O M M E N D E D 609.494.7001

bay-magazine.com 185

FEED YOUR MIND

THE VIEWS Written by Carolyn Mijal

Photo by Ann Coen

Is there any moment more romantic and relaxing than the warm majestic tones of a sunset over the bay? Golden hour in its serene glory, the sounds of seagulls speaking one last caw before turning in for the night while the calming scent of the salty water mixes with the aroma of heavenly cocktails create an atmosphere for any celebration. The hidden gem that is the Rooftop Bar at Hotel LBI is not only for patrons of the Hotel. Turquoise skies with wispy cotton candy clouds, that kiss the blue tones of the sea while the wind caresses your shoulders as you sip a fabulous cocktail with friends on a summer day, while enjoying it all at The Rooftop bar which makes it even more 186 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

of a memorable experience. When golden hour draws near and the amber tones transform the sky and evoke the most romantic feelings, toasting with your significant other is made even more romantic at The Rooftop. There are no Long Island Ice Teas on this cocktail menu oh no, it’s the LBI Iced tea that reins supreme and even more hand-crafted cocktails that awaken your pallet with their layers of flavors and the fun does not stop there. The Rooftop Bar at Hotel LBI is an idyllic location for any occasion. You do not need a reason to treat yourself here, it’s the perfect balance of a casual and sophisticated atmosphere that is welcoming to everyone.

Photo by Brighid Nolan

Parents can enjoy one of the many signature cocktails featured on the menu while the kids play corn hole or connect four. The Rooftop can be a starting point for your night, whether you want to take in the views as the sun is setting before heading down to Salt: the upscale dining experience that features fresh caught seafood and produce from local farmers. The Rooftop is also a perfect way to cap off the night relaxing under the stars. Food, friends, and fun are the primary focal point ensuring that all who come to the Rooftop will have a fabulous time. Food is essential to Hotel LBI so while you are taking in the views and enjoying the Rooftop’s Lovely Lady: a refreshing cocktail that has watermelon, crisp cucumbers, refreshing mint and Ketel One, you can also enjoy the raw bar and pizza delights that are featured at the Rooftop. The fresh seafood awakens your tastebuds with clams, oysters, and shrimp cocktail bursting with the essence of the Atlantic. Artisan pizzas enjoyed alfresco instantly transport you to the Amalfi coast and pair perfectly with the Rooftops seasonal sangrias. This season the Rooftop Bar is featuring a creative take on a drink well established in childhood. The futuristic sliver drink pouches that have always been a staple for outdoor summertime activities during childhood, have grown up.

Photo by Ann Coen

This summer they are making a comeback at the Rooftop. These creative portable and spill proof cocktails made their debut opening weekend and with vodka and whiskey varieties there is something for everyone. Reservations for the Rooftop can be made through the Hotel LBI website or through Open Table. The Rooftop is open to all and for any couples who are having their wedding at Hotel LBI they have the option to have their ceremonies with the stunning views at the Rooftop. bay-magazine.com 187

The Best Italian Food on the Jersey Shore

Deli , Caterer & Specialty Grocery Store Come Visit and See our Fresh Look!

188 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

1905 Long Beach Blvd Surf City 609.361.2500 www.themariositalianmarket.com

“We’re the Best in Cheese & So Much More!”

Over 100 Cheese Varieties Over 800 Gourmet Food Items Charcuterie & Gift Baskets Cheese Boards & Knives

Home of LBI’s Best Coffee & Award Winning Breakfast Burritos Since 2004

Fresh Ground Coffee

Iced Chai Lattes Smoothies • ACAI Bowls GF Options • Salads Breakfast & Lunch and much more! 609.494.4630 1800 LONG BEACH BLVD SURF CITY, NJ 08008 LBICHEESE.COM

609-494-3345 1901 Long Beach Blvd. Surf City surfsidecoffeehouse.com

bay-magazine.com 189

FEED YOUR MIND

The OYSTER Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

How tired we all are of hearing about supply shortages. But there is one that has a straightforward solution, right here on our little island. Oyster shells. Yes, that’s right. There is a shortage of oyster shells. Before we delve into those details and learn what we can do to help, let’s back up a bit. Long Beach Island and the surrounding mainland were settled by baymen, who made their living from the very body of water we mindlessly drive over each time we travel onto the island. Hundreds of mortgages, college tuitions and doctor’s bills were paid from the hard work of (mostly, at that time) men working in conjunction with the gifts of bounty found deep within those blue waters. Oysters, clams, mussels, scallops. Our region was an integral source of shellfish in the mid-1800s, shipping it by train in order to fill the street carts and markets in New York City and beyond. But that link to the bay was broken, as pollution, over-harvesting and a host of 190 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

other conditions fundamentally changed the health of its ecosystem, resulting in a severe decline in the shellfish population. Fortunately, however, the innovative Follow The Shell Recycling Program, the first municipal collection of post-consumer oyster and clam shells in New Jersey, is successfully regenerating those waters. In fact, it won the NJDEP Recycling Award for leadership in 2020. To truly appreciate the magnitude of this effort, we must first understand the life cycle of our precious bay creatures. Let us examine the oyster. From spring through fall oysters spawn, releasing sperm and eggs into the bay waters. Young larval oysters have no shells, swimming about freely for several weeks. At this point in their growth, they must find a hard surface upon which to adhere. Their preference? An oyster shell, though a clam shell will do, too! And in light of increased restoration work in our coastal waters, the demand for shell is quite high.

That’s where we can step in to help, simply by enjoying locally harvested oysters at a participating shell-recycling restaurant. Eating an oyster is like drinking a fine wine, and with twelve oyster farms in our bays, we have a superb selection. In fact, several of our local oyster farmers actually grow two or three different varieties. It is fun to do a taste test, noting the distinct flavor profiles, which occur mainly as a result of being grown in different areas of the bay. You may notice that one oyster tastes sweeter, while another has a much bolder, salty characteristic. Lucky for us, the shell recycling movement has gained a great deal of momentum over the last five years and many of our favorite local restaurants proudly joined the effort to close the loop and enhance our bay for generations to come. Simply look for the #followtheshell window sticker or search the ever-growing list found on both the Long Beach Township Field Station and the Jetty Rock Foundation websites to learn if the dining spots you frequent will recycle your shells. These restaurants set aside discarded oyster and clam shells, and at the end of the night, these shells that would otherwise end up in the landfill are placed in a bin for pickup by Long Beach Township. (Keep your eyes peeled this summer for the new Follow The Shell Program shell pick-up truck, made possible from the Jetty Rock Foundation and Long Beach Township fundraisers.) Once the shells are picked up, they must be sun-cured for about six months to ensure no detrimental microorganisms are introduced back into the ecosystem. They are then brought back to the bay to create new oyster reefs or to build living shorelines. To develop just one acre of restored habitat, 1000 bushels of recycled shell are needed! Over 4500 bushels have been contributed to the Tuckerton Research Reef and the Follow The Shell Program will continue to support that reef in additional to other shoreline restoration projects in our bays. Throughout this process, Stockton University Marine Field Station staff and students play an integral role, studying changes in oyster biology and assessing the local bay ecology. bay-magazine.com 191

DID YOU KNOW?

Photo by Kyle Gronostajski

Their data proves measurable increases in the oyster population, which lends to significant environmental benefits. A single oyster filters up to 50 gallons of water a day, bringing us closer to the beautiful waters that generations past remember fondly. Additionally, these sturdy oyster reefs act as a wave break and stabilize shorelines, absorbing up to 93% of wave energy. As these new oysters grow into larger reef complexes, they also provide protected habitat for hundreds of species. Furthermore, as Barnegat Oyster Collective co-founder and farmer of Forty North Oyster Farms, Scott Lennox, explains in the 2017 @theoysterfarmers film,“oysters are a sustainable, and even restorative, way to grow protein.” Which hints at critical economic benefits, as well. There are once again multiple new oyster farms in Little Egg Harbor Bay, proof that a new generation sees hope in making a living from the bay once again.

192 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Be sure to check out Jetty Rock Foundation’s annual fundraising event “Shellabration” which will occur on Saturday, October 8th from 11-5 at the Long Beach Township Municipal Complex in Brant Beach. It’s is a wonderful opportunity to meet our local oyster farmers and learn more about these efforts. There will also be other events throughout the summer to support and donate to the Jetty Rock Foundation so they can continue raising awareness and recapturing the legacy of the Eastern Oyster. Regardless of whether we depend on the bay for recreation, commercial operations or food, it needs our best conservation efforts. What a wonderful feeling to sit at one of your favorite restaurants, enjoying a cocktail and some delicious seafood, knowing that the oyster shell you are holding in your hand will be returned to the very bay you are overlooking, bringing your food full circle.

bay-magazine.com 193

ART

potters Interview by Matt Burton Photos by Matt Burton

Clay is one the oldest and greatest art mediums. How do we know about civilizations from antiquity, like the Greeks, Mayans or Chinese? We know a lot about them because of their pottery or ceramics. Often used as a measure of a societies health and development, pottery was regarded as an important factor for sustainability and growth. As a result of having important practical use for storing or cooking food, pottery also had a role in recording history. Often potters would decorate the surfaces of the ceramic vessels with images which would depict important events, flora and fauna of the surroundings as well as everyday activities. As a potter myself I am drawn to the medium for its intrinsic qualities, plasticity and hands on approach in creating a piece which will eventually end up in the hands of someone using the piece. The intimacy of interaction between the pottery and user is unlike any other art form. Users are encouraged to touch and feel. An everyday life accessory to uplift ones spirits. There is nothing better than a mug whose handle feels designed for your fingers and rim for your lips. 194 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Long Beach Island has a long history in the arts and ceramics is no exception. The first ceramic studio on the island was established at the LBI Foundation of the Arts & Sciences (LBIF) in Loveladies originally founded in 1948. The ceramic studio program has grown over the years which includes classes as well as residencies. Many of the residents are practicing potters who show and sell their work locally and nationally. One of those resident potters is Sue Pohanka. Sue Pohanka, of Loveladies and Bryn Mawr, PA, studied art at the Corcoran Museum in Washington D.C. and different art centers in the Philadelphia area. Originally focusing on water color, figure drawing and other 2-D mediums, Sue first touched clay in 1993 while attending classes at the Wayne Art Center. The forgiveness and flexibility of clay as a medium was very attractive and liberating from the limitations of paper medium. In 2013 Sue became a year round resident in the LBIF ceramic studio. Since then she has developed her skills on the pottery wheel and a unique bold colorful style of surface decoration which includes images of animals and flowers.

Matt Burton: I’ve been watching your work grow and develop over the last ten years or so. You’ve been an artist for a long time. What had you done prior? Sue Pohanka: Prior to becoming a potter, I was a geologist. I earned a B.A. from Colgate University and a M.S. from U Mass in geology. I worked as an environmental consultant focusing on contaminated groundwater. On hazardous waste sites, I supervised the installation of wells and collected soil and groundwater samples. Later in the office, the type, extent, and sources of contamination were assessed. Environmental consulting involved a tremendous amount of travel. As a result, I found it very difficult balancing parenthood and consulting. I elected to switch my career path from geology to art after the birth of my two kids. MB: Your work has become very recognizable for its colorful surfaces depicting different animals and flowers. Obviously you have a love for them. Can you tell me how you choose which animals yo use for your designs? SP: I have always loved nature and animals. Most of my pottery is decorated with a variety of whimsical critters. I find animals so expressive and appealing. The animals I choose to decorate my pots are influence by living on LBI. Our house is bay front and I love to paddle my kayak around the sedge island observing the nesting birds and schools of fish.

Photo by Sue Pohanka

Occasionally, I choose more exotic animals, such as tigers. Since 2007, I’ve been a docent at the Philadelphia Zoo. I love observing all the various critters and teaching the public about them. My current favorite animal is the cat. While my kids were young, we had a wide variety of pets including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and lizards. Once my kids were grown, I thought our pet owning days were over. However, COVID hit. Rescuing 2 rambunctious kittens made Lock Down so much more bearable. Now I can’t image life without Peanut and Smokey. I love their silly antics and always wonder exactly what is going inside their heads. MB: Can you share a little about your decorating process? SP: My love of color and pattern have led me to a technique called paper resist. It involves cutting multiple paper stencils, adhering the stencils to the unfired clay surface of a wheel thrown form, and painting multiple colored underglazes overtop. The stencils are then removed revealing the white clay body underneath. bay-magazine.com 195

ART

Then the “white” areas then can be filled in with other colors. The process allows me to create pattern relatively quickly and lends a very graphic feel to the decoration. MB: You posted a video of you working in the studio on Instagram and it went viral. People and other potters are fascinated with your work process. How has it changed your work or how you see it changing or influencing your work? Do you see these viral moments as important steps in being a professional potter? SP: Instagram has really been a great source of inspiration for me. I’ve learned so much by following other ceramic artists and watching the videos of how they made their work. Many artists are very generous sharing their techniques. I’ve enjoyed posting my own work to Instagram. I have developed a fairly large following and one of my process videos has gone ‘viral’ with over 500k views. Posting is a means of sharing my creative technique, providing a glimpse into how a piece is made, and getting feedback. Since I don’t generally sell my work online, I’m not really doing it to make money. However, it feels good to get validation and pay my knowledge ‘forward’. MB: Where do you want to go from here? What goals do you have now? SP: A goal of mine moving forward is to become more adept at throwing clay on the wheel. I’d like to make larger and more complex forms. Basically, I need more time in the studio to practice. A wonderful thing about clay is that there is always something new to learn. It never gets old.

LA Colombe Coffee & Baked Goods 1920 Long Beach Blvd Ship Bottom Inside Beach barn Boutique! themermaidroom_lbi

196 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

The number of ceramic studios in the area has grown with the popularity of pottery. These days celebrities like Seth Rogen and Brad Pitt have been national ambassadors for the benefits and pleasures of working/ relaxing in clay. What will archeologists think when they find a cache of pottery off the coast of New Jersey years from now? Maybe they will think how developed LBI was once upon a time? Yes. How evolved our society is? I would like to think so. Tigers roamed in the Pine Barrons?! Hmmm… To see more of Sue’s pottery stop in m.t.burton gallery in Surf City or the LBIF in Loveladies.

m.t.burton gallery & 19th St. Clay Studio 1819 N. Long Beach Blvd., Surf City

mtburtongallery@gmail.com

609-494-0006

Fine Art, Pottery, Jewelry and Antiques

@mtburtongallery @mattburtonpottery

@mtburtongallery etsy.com/store/19thStreetPotter

bay-magazine.com 197

1103 Long Beach Blvd Surf City, NJ 08008 609 • 361 • 0050

198 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

SERVING LBI'S FAVORITE COFFEE

SINCE 2004

LOCATIONS IN SURF CITY & BARNEGAT LIGHT bay-magazine.com 199 WWW.HOWYOUBREWIN.COM

ART

200 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

MEET ME AT THE

Beach

A Summertime Photo Journal Photos by Michael John Murphy Born By the Sea Photography

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then Michael John Murphy is a professional storyteller. Equipped with a camera and gifted with an eye for framing photos that bring his subjects to life, Michael has documented fascinating faces and landscapes around the world for more than 20 years.

bay-magazine.com 201

Sometimes when the beaches get a little too crowded, I tag along with my sister Kate and her friends to some spots a little less traveled.

202 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

ART

bay-magazine.com 203

ART

204 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

“Meet me at the beach” is something I have found myself saying over and over again during my career as a photographer... It is after all the best photo studio anyone could wish for.

bay-magazine.com 205

I met the Silver Hammers volleyball team on a recent shoot. We had so much fun that before I even finished packing up my gear, I told coach Charlie that we had to do another shoot….at the beach!

206 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

ART

Sun bathers and photographers are always chasing the light...Here my friend Caroline reserved the perfect spot. bay-magazine.com 207

208 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

ART

Although summer at my local beach will always be my favorite place to be... I sometimes find myself far from home on locations that I only read about in magazines growing up.

bay-magazine.com 209

DID YOU KNOW?

Explore LBI

Land & Sea Passport

New Performances hitting the stage

Written by Lori Pepenella, CDME

Spend Summer in Style with Top Picks from the LBI Region Readjusting schedules and returning to routines, it is more important than ever for a trip to the beach, and taking in all the benefits of the Jersey Coast. Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce members invite you to find something new in 2022, and share in our 108th summer sharing memories and creating new experiences. Summer is fleeting, so whether this is your first visit or a familiar place, there is always more to explore. Here are our top 5 new reasons to dive into our destination:

Mobile Savings Pass

Where do you find local Electric Charging stations? How about tides charts, moon phases, pet travel info and public restrooms? Whether you pick up the pocket-sized publication, scan the QR code or get the digital copy do not miss this annual guide! Its center feature is the official LBI Passport with Giant Clam Trail log, Native plants, birds, shells and fish scavenger check off lists. Take the learning on road and connect in new ways throughout the season. Pick it up at Passport sites including LBI Foundation, NJ Maritime Museum, LBI Historical, ALO and Southern Ocean County Chamber Visitor Center. visitlbiregion.com/land-and-sea-passport

Key the music, the comedy and the drama! Showstoppers from professional productions, touring acts, outdoor concerts or nightly entertainment are scheduled throughout the summer. Take advantage of line ups that rival any cultural district and find out how we are redefining Beach Culture daily. events.visitlbiregion.com

Chowder Fest

New Rides at Fantasy Island Amusement Park

For a fresh take on a traditional savings book, Southern Ocean Chamber members reimagined discounts and special offers into a convenient mobile pass that everyone with a device will have access to. For those interested, you can register for free and receive a link that can be saved to the home screen of your phone. Participating businesses will be updated on the pass offering Eat, Drink & Buy LBI regional coupons, giveaways or discounts to passholders. The pass also highlights free attractions and military discountswww.visitlbiregion.com/news/buy-lbi-savings-pass

210 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

The park has been busy bringing one-ofa-kind rides to Beach Haven. The colorful Summertime Swings and the Shark Attack ride will bring smiles to summer evenings. The recently redesigned Arcade is loaded with latest trends in prizes and new VIP pass packages make memories limitless fantasyislandlbi.com/

Become a traveling taster and support local restaurants on the Chowder Trail, vote online and turn out for our free fest happening October 1 in Beach Haven! New merchandise, live entertainment and plenty of bay front views to be enjoyed. https://chowderfest.com/

NEW! LBI REGION SAVINGS PASS -

it s i V

THE

LONG BEACH ISLAND REGION

EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL VisitLBIRegion.com

BEA

CHO

2022 b e a c h i s la

Learn more through the Passport to LBI, Surf & Sip Brew Trail and iconic festivals to make your visit complete year round.

DE R F E OW

the tastes, experiences, one of a kind products and local knowledge to create the perfect getaway.

ER WD T

RAIL

For over a century, the LBI region has provided

CH IS

SEPTEMBER 3 - 30

SATURDAY, OCT. 1

STARTING LABOR DAY WEEKEND

RAIN DATE ON SUNDAY

EAT DRINK & Sign up for the Chowder Trail

REGION

and Celebrate the 34th Annual Chowderfest! VisitLBIRegion.com

chowderfest.com

Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce 265 W 9th St., Ship Bottom, NJ 08008 | 609.494.7211 VisitLBIRegion.com

Ocean County Board of Commissioners

bay-magazine.com 211

212 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

DID YOU KNOW?

A BOND LIKE NO OTHER Written by Carolyn Mijal

Photos by Nancy Wiggs Photography

There are few moments in life that leave such a profound impression on us, that the fabric that makes us who we are is forever woven with that moment. For some it is the experience of flight, while others it is catching that first wave, more often than not the way music moves us…stays with us. The first few notes of a song taking you back to a specific moment, time, and feeling and no matter how many times you hear that song the experience is encapsulated and re-lived, repeatedly reverberating the bond shared between yourself and the person you were with at the time. It is one of the many reasons that the song for a father-daughter dance is vital in its selection. Fathers and daughters have a bond that is truly only understood between the two. Sharing a favorite sports team, learning how to drive, continually learning aspects of life that only Dads can teach, and for many music is a life lesson that is passed down through car rides, working side by side, and lazy summer nights around a fire pit. For Neal and Michaelina Petti music is so much more than a bond between them. bay-magazine.com 213

The youngest of seven children, Neal was raised by parents who placed an emphasis on learning an instrument at a young age. He and his six siblings grew up playing piano and focused on music across multiple genres. Having grown up in a large Italian family, “The house was always full of music, the record player always on,” Neal said. “My Dad was a musician. He played the trombone in the Army.” To this day, Neal’s eldest sister, “Aunt Peg,” and brother, Lou, as well as numerous Petti nieces and nephews are actively performing musicians in bands of their own, one of them even dubbed “Everyone but Neal,” and are heavily involved themselves in musical theater and spiritual worship. The music of the late 60s and onward set the foundation, exposing Neal to every variety of music growing up. “When KISS came out, I was like that is what I want to do,” Neal says with a smile. As a father himself now, Neal enjoys passing along the music bug to his own children. Hailing from such a deeply passionate and dedicated musical family served to extend into the next generation with Michaelina and her younger brother Gianni both receiving the torch. For years now, the Petti household has enjoyed Breakfast with The Beat214 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

les, which Neal spins on vinyl each and every morning before sending the kids off to school. “Well, that’s just good parenting,” Neal jokes. Having had the opportunity to sit down with Neal and Michaelina you can literally see the joy that radiates from the father-daughter duo as they talk about all things music. Between the two of them their musical range is outstanding. They do it all while creating new reasons to love your favorite songs. In addition to performing, Neal also provides private one-on-one music instruction. Though the pandemic has added some interesting parameters, the ability to teach and inspire those learning the joy of music is at the heart of Neal’s daily work life. Pre-pandemic Neal was teaching approximately sixty students in person. When Covid transitioned reality to the virtual world, music lessons still found a way to let the beat go on. “Lessons are still virtual and will continue to be so. I am able to reach a lot more people this way,” Neal explains. While father and daughter have always enjoyed jam sessions together, 2022 marks their third year of playing

DID YOU KNOW?

together as a band. Frequent patrons of Buckalew’s, The Northside Bar & Grill, Nardi’s, Daddy-O and Surf City Hotel, to name a few, know that if The Pettis are performing it will be a fantastic night. The passion and vibrations that soar through the room as each note makes its way across the floor, with lyrics and melodies taking all listeners back to special moments in their lives. “The challenge for me is to pull people out of their expectations,” Michaelina says. “To see the reaction from the crowd when they hear a song they love and you hit that note and it immediately causes them to react, it’s like no other.” A talented young woman who channels all the Stevie Nicks energy and then some, Michaelina actively enjoys playing several instruments including piano, bass, guitar, mandolin, and ukulele, but primarily sticks to only acoustic guitar and vocals while on stage. Watching her perform with her father is the embodiment of joy. There is nothing more joyful and uplifting than watching a dad and his daughter rock

out and letting the good vibrations flow. Their classic yacht rock vibe is quintessentially all that is LBI: timeless, fresh, and fun. The Pettis create the atmosphere of many notable LBI hot spots. Whether Michaelina is on guitar or bass or Neal is performing an iconic rock solo on the guitar, their harmonies blend and flow and show how strongly in-sync they are. The Pettis have just as much enjoyment interacting with their audience as they do performing for them. Their current Summer 2022 schedule is posted on their website www.thepettis. com. They will be all around LBI, as well as on the mainland, and if you can’t get enough of them this summer you can also reach out and book them for your own private event. When the summer winds down The Pettis will be heading down to Nashville and performing on and off Broadway. They plan to get some song writing in and enjoy all the inspiration that Music City has to offer. What is certain is that this summer, The Pettis are ready to rock.

bay-magazine.com 215

SERIES AT SEVEN

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES SPONSORED BY BENÉE SCOLA Photo : Hailey Brinnel of the Hailey Brinnel Quartet

216 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Sunday, June 26: The Last Whippoorwill Sunday, July 10: Suspiro Flamenco Sunday, July 17: The Linda Ronstadt Revue Sunday, July 24: Sara Michaels and Sharon Sable Friday, July 29: The Rave-Ons Sunday, August 7: The Elberon Trio Friday, August 12: Cornelia Street Band Sunday, August 21: The Hailey Brinnel Quartet Sunday, September 4: Paula Johns Doors at 6:30pm TICKETS: lbifoundation.org

BECOME A MEMBER

The LBIF is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Your Membership provides critical support for the Arts, with opportunities and experiences that provide enrichment for all. Visit lbifoundation.org for more information about Membership. 120 Long Beach Boulevard, Loveladies, 08008 609.494.1241 lbifoundation.org

bay-magazine.com 217

218 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun For All Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Photos by Ann Coen Photography

An outing where both kids and adults are fully engaged and happy? This is an easy one at The Mainland Adventure Park, where the moniker speaks for itself. Just three years old, it’s a state- of-the-art facility built for fun, relaxation and togetherness. Whether it be kids who are enthralled with the America Ninja Warrior Jr craze, grandparents looking to dazzle their visiting grandchildren, parents planning their child’s birthday celebration, or even millennials putting together a bachelorette party or first date, this facility checks all the boxes. The main attraction at the Adventure Park is the Aerial Course, encompassing a central, fifty- foot tower as the gateway to a variety of exciting challenges. It is worth nothing that this peak also houses a weather station to forecast any imminent bad weather events in an eﬀort to keep patron’s safety top of mind. The professional guides are your first introduction to the course and are truly what set it apart from similar locales. They meet with you in the registration area, where you check in and are secured into your harness. Before even stepping out onto the ropes, you will be clipped in to the safety tether, making the fact that you are suspended in mid-air exhilarating rather than frightening.

bay-magazine.com 219

DID YOU KNOW?

The guides remain very hands-on as needed throughout the course to ensure an enjoyable experience, even for the most timid child. Seven different rope trails challenge your strength, balance and agility as you work your way through obstacles. With the range of options, it’s possible for children to build up to more challenging trails as they gain confidence. This is equally as true for adults looking to conquer their fear of heights or try something new. Plus, there is a special Play Fort so that kids even as young as four years old can partake in the fun. Four unique zip lines within the Aerial Course provide a high-flying thrill through for kids starting at age seven and adults of any age. The zip lines were constructed with a passive breaking system which makes it possible for all abilities to enjoy a ride through the sky. The course’s central tower also boasts a 50 foot climbing wall with 3 trails and an auto-belay feature to, again, ensure all levels can climb. Expert hint: if you are most excited about the climbing wall, do this first to ensure you have the energy! 220 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

The full ropes course generally takes between 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Reservations are recommended and can easily be made online. The sign up process also provides important details regarding what to wear and what to look forward to while visiting the Adventure Park. Though they can accommodate forty people at a time, the course is so thoughtfully constructed you will never have to wait while going through the trails. A completely separate experience from the Aerial Course, the Extreme Karting adds another layer of fun to your afternoon. The track is over 1000 feet long with plenty of twists and turns to keep it interesting, along with straight stretches for the chance to increase your speed. The two-seater karts allow even small children to join in the fun, while many riders choose the one- seater karts for racing. The Leader Board and time-lapse sensor, complete with print outs perfect for refrigerator bragging rights, make for a competitive game. You can even challenge yourself to reach the “pro-skill” racing level as the racing technology tracks your cumulative laps around the track and computes

Photos by The Small Town Studio

your overall standing. It’s important to point out that Adventure Park has taken care that their electric carts are quiet with no emissions, ensuring a pleasurable experience for spectators, as well. As the kids finish up the afternoon at the Arcade, Mom and Dad can unwind with some drinks and small bites at the arcade Lounge or around the fire pit. The Arcade has old school games like pinball and Pac-Man, but also plenty of interactive and competitive games, including basketball, fast pitch and two-player video games. New this year, The Mainland is enhancing your experience by oﬀering pre-loaded cards, which can be used anywhere within the facility. With these cards, parents can give their children freedom to play games at The Arcade, pick out snacks at the Mainland Market or host an entire birthday party. Regardless of whether you call Long Beach Island home or your weekend getaway, finding activities for everyone to enjoy together is a universal challenge. So on a beautiful summer day, when everyone has had their fill of the beach or the pool, The Mainland Adventure Park oﬀers a perfect change of pace that will suit every age in your group. bay-magazine.com 221

222 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

MUSICALS • CONCERTS MUSICALS FOR CHILDREN • COMEDY 201 ENGLESIDE AVENUE, BEACH HAVEN WWW.SURFLIGHT.ORG • 609.492.9477 bay-magazine.com 223

DID YOU KNOW?

An Iconic Oceanfront Refresh Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Most of us have had the pleasure of viewing sepia-toned photographs of the grand late-nineteenth and early-twentieth century hotels that punctuated Long Beach Island. The initial draw of the island evolved through a number of seaside-related industries into a well-known respite for hay fever sufferers in Philadelphia and New York; ultimately claiming it as a family destination for summer health and recreation and spurring the construction of several iconic hotels. Though the island remains a cherished seaside resort, the majority of these original havens are long gone. There is still one on the southern end of our island, however, that continues to hold true to those treasured origins. In 1890 W. S. Ringgold and W. Hewitt purchased the Spray Beach tract of land formerly known as Waverly Beach. Here they built three cottages, one of which was the modest beginning of the Spray Beach Hotel. In the decades that followed, the hotel grew substantially, both in size and recognition. 1902 marked the development of a three-story wing extending toward the ocean along 24th Street, as well as the addition of the Cranberry Lounge. That structure stood until 1968 when it was replaced with a modern hotel named The Spray Beach Inn and purchased in 1975 by local business owner John Wooley. This summer ushers in an exciting new chapter for the Long Beach Island fixture as another local family takes the helm, with substantial plans for modernizing the hotel while maintaining its coastal heritage. The refreshed name, Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel, points to its coveted locale, one of only a few hotels on the island to offer a front row seat to the spectacular ocean hugging our coastline. Guests will enjoy the cool sea breezes in their rooms, just steps from the pristine sand. And with private access to the beach through a walkway over the dunes and complimentary beach badges, it’s easy to take advantage of as much beach time as possible. While the warm summer days beckon, beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent on-site, a sign of the hotel’s commitment to hospitality. The Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel promises no shortage of amenities to enhance their guests’ vacations. 224 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

The heated pool and hot tub present another option for anyone who has had their fill of salt and sand. A multi-level deck provides plenty of space for prime sun bathing and family bonding. Plus, a new on-site market offers late night snacks, forgotten essentials and gifts to bring back home. The hotel’s location in the quiet neighborhood of North Beach Haven ensures an abundance of quintessential beach ambiance through the sound of hypnotic waves and welcoming seagulls. Even still it is an easy walk into the heart of Beach Haven, where options for entertainment and dining abound. The front desk will help each guest curate a perfect stay, whether it be an adventurous vacation or a relaxing getaway. The site also boasts both indoor and outdoor event spaces complete with in-house event coordinators to help celebrate life’s biggest moments. It’s no secret that Long Beach Island has exploded as a premier wedding location and the Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel is proud to offer a beautiful beach-front venue to say “I do.” Smaller events like baby showers and retirement parties will find a perfect home here, too. Even those who already have a place to stay on LBI can enjoy the iconic hotel. All are invited to stroll down the beach or pedal their cruisers to visit the onsite Drift Beach Bar and Restaurant, one of only a few beach-front restaurants on the island. The chef uses fresh, local ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes that will please even the most discerning palates. Indulge in a specialty cocktail, like their delicious Paloma Paradiso or a refreshing white sangria, while relaxing to the live music they have programmed all summer long. Renovations and updates will resume during the 2022 and 2023 off-seasons to continue a generations-long commitment to help guests make amazing memories at the shore. While our world has raced far past the Victorian-era glory, a few priceless spots on LBI still provide us with a much-desired taste of luxury and culture. And the Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel is one of those special places.

Oceanfront Lodging & Dining With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel combines local coastal influences with modern amenities for an exceptional vacation. Dine at our onsite restaurant & beach bar, relax in a well-appointed room just steps from the beach, or explore nearby attractions by foot or bike.

200 East 24th Street, Spray Beach, NJ 08008 | (609) 492-1501

Oceanfront bar and coastal flavors

bay-magazine.com 225

LOCATED AT SPRAY BEACH HOTEL | (609) 492-1501 | SPRAYBEACHHOTEL.COM

DID YOU KNOW?

Our Precious Ecosystem Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Headed into its second summer with live programming, the Long Beach Township Marine Education Field Station and the municipal team behind it provide an open invitation to focus on the natural world and the unique cultural aspects of seaside living. Located in Holgate on Osborn Avenue, their mission is to “inspire behavioral change and show the value of our coastal heritage.” Local residents, visiting vacationers and folks from surrounding towns can all immerse themselves in Long Beach Island’s unique community and precious ecosystem through this facility. From top to bottom, quite literally, the field station was thoughtfully constructed to encourage learning and connection. A state-of-the-art weather station housed on the roof of the building provides thorough, real-time weather reports; quite an important feature, since LBI’s weather is so unique. Current weather conditions are always detailed on the homepage of their website. There are also a variety of weather-related lectures scheduled throughout the year, pertaining specifically to coastal living, including “Hurricane Season” and the “Science of Surf Forecasting.” With an increased emphasis on the impor226 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

tance of climate over recent years, they offer an important opportunity to gain a more intimate understanding of the challenges and solutions we can embrace. Many of the events and workshops extend far beyond the weather, however, and include a combination of fun, hands-on “make and take” projects alongside serious science topics. The field station’s location adjacent to Clam Cove Reserve, a 22 acre preserved wetland, adds a critical element to much of the programming. The Reserve’s public access points near the facility encourages kids to get their hands in the “bay muck” while learning about just how much life is found within the marsh ecosystem. Though not as many adults are so willing to be elbow deep in salty mud, there are plenty of sustainability and marine conservation programs geared toward them, too. Real-time science demonstrations with experts in the field makes these community programs a unique opportunity to build a stronger relationship with and knowledge of the environment in a practical, engaging way. Keep your eyes peeled this summer as events like a rain barrel take-home workshop, native plant landscaping seminar and other sustainable liv-

ing-related programs are scheduled. The ground level of the field station houses a lab for diverse academic, community science and student research. The room is portioned out to devote space to several different areas of study, including oyster and clam shell recycling, bay islands restoration and Project Terrapin. An aquarium hosted by the Stockton Aquarium and Aquaculture Club and educational displays created in conjunction with the Jetty Rock Foundation grant visitors a chance to see exactly what is happening underneath the surface of the water in an oyster reef and how it impacts their own lives. As the location gains recognition and community support grows, the team envisions endless potential for what the facility can offer to the community in the future. The beautiful, open space overlooking the bay offers a blank canvas of possibility—not to mention spectacular sunsets. Visit their website for a deeper look into their offerings and be sure to sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date as new programs are announced. www.lbtfieldstation.com Follow us on social media: @lbtfieldstation on insta and LBT Field Station on FB

The Perfect Marketing Solution is Only

One Click Away.

877-361-8016 creativeclickmedia.com

bay-magazine.com 227

A Perfect Wave

Written by Lisa Simek

Photos by Kelly Slater Wave Co / Surf Ranch

LBI’s Winter Surf Conditions Prompt an Experience with the Ultimate Man-Made Barrel by Surf Legend Kelly Slater

Endless Summer is a beloved cult classic film. This endearing and guileless Bruce Brown surf documentary from the 1960’s chronicles two world-class surfers— Mike Hynson and Robert August— while they chase the summer season as it moves around the globe, hemisphere by hemisphere (to the shores of Australia, Tahiti, Hawaii, and Senegal), and devote their days to the undeniably romantic pursuit of the world’s most perfect wave. (Spoiler alert: They find “the perfect wave” in Cape St. Francis, South Africa.)

On LBI, local surfers resonate with this ultimate quest. A good number of wave-seekers habitually plan trips over the course of winter, whether it be to Central America or the Indian-Pacific Ocean region, in search of warmer climates and high-quality waves in the off-season. Fortunately for many, the prospect of remote working has only enhanced the travel potential and duration 228 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

for many who don’t have the luxury of “taking the winter off.” This year, we followed a Surf City resident who was invited to try his hand at a man-made wave at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in California—the setting of ABC’s The Ultimate Surfer reality television series—and boy was this the experience of a lifetime. For those who may not follow the surf industry, Kelly Slater is, without a doubt, professional surfing’s G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time). The iconic surfer has won 11 World Titles (he is both the youngest and the oldest surfer to ever win this WSL title), earned first place at 56 pro events and 832 heats in his nearly four decades of competing in the sport. Most recently, in February 2022, he claimed his historical 8th Billabong Pro Pipeline Title on the North Shore of Oahu—exactly 30 years after winning it for the very first time— and just days shy of his 50th birthday.

Competitions aside, in late 2000, Kelly Slater pulled together some of the brightest minds in water physics and committed to a formal scientific exploration into recreating the best ocean waves. He shared his vision of a perfect, barreling, human-made wave with Adam Fincham, PhD., a professor at the University of Southern California Viterbi School of Engineering and expert in fluid dynamics. What Kelly described had been attempted for decades, but never achieved, and Fincham was fascinated by the challenge. So together with an international team of scientists, engineers and business professionals, they got to work. Their next level technology ended up producing the longest open barrel, high performance, perfect human-made wave in the world via the Kelly Slater Wave Co—it is known as the world’s perfect wave. With this incredible feat of engineering, shortly thereafter the Surf Ranch was born: a 20-acre private surf destination resort located in the middle of farm fields in Lemoore, California— ironically, over 100 miles away from the ocean. Surf Ranch obviously houses the aquatic phenomenon offering epic waves, but also consists of overnight lodging, farm to table cuisine, and a completely immersive surf lifestyle experience from campfires to

bike rides and retreat-like offerings that yield lifelong memories for those who visit. Although the Surf Ranch may not be the first man-made wave pool, it certainly the gold standard for wave pools and happens to be the most powerful. The wave reaches speeds of 20 mph and heights of 8 feet, traveling over 2300 feet and yielding rides upwards of 1 minute long. The wave can be completely controlled, allowing a wave riding experience for surfers of all skill levels. They offer an endless number of wave profiles, from the CT2 (The fastest and most challenging of their waves), to the Hero or the CT3 (The hollow, more forgiving version of the CT2), the Waikiki (a smaller and slower main wave, often used by beginners) and even the North End Zone Rollers (which are perfect, smaller peeling waves for those just starting out). Customers may pay upwards of $10,000 to surf for an hour, so it’s no surprise that the Surf Ranch is ultra-exclusive and boasts a celebrity clientele: Chris Hemsworth, Drew Brees, Tony Hawk, Shaun White, and Eddie Vedder have all caught waves there, and of course, so have the world’s most famous surfers. But beyond the perfect wave and luxuriously charming ame-

bay-magazine.com 229

nities, the Surf Ranch has built a staff of friends and experts to improve clientele’s surfing, ensure safety, provide hospitality, professional videography and photography of the experience, and deliver that positive energy that is contagious both in and out of the water. One would imagine that a predictable, perfect wave would therefore make surfing a much easier feat. But in reality, the perfect wave is more difficult to ride than one would expect. The final barrel section is especially challenging, as its tight tube forces surfers to crouch down to fit. It’s a balance between going super-fast and going super low on your board. And with every wave counting, surfers want to make sure they make the best out of catching and riding each wave for as long as possible. In conjunction with the 11x world champ’s aquatic ambitions, Slater’s ethical ventures were on full display via his clothing brand Outerknown, which was also available for preview at the Surf Ranch. Since knowing where to buy ethical and eco-friendly apparel isn’t always obvious, the added touch of introducing visitors to the stylish sustainable brand was meaningful. Naturally, the concept of this high-end men’s and women’s coastal apparel brand is rooted in environmental sustainability, and all Outerknown clothing is created with high-quality, long-lasting materials that are made in a way that protects our planet’s natural resources, while providing fair wages to factory workers. It was the first brand to pursue Fair Labor Association accreditation before selling a single product, and almost all of their products are made from organic, recycled or renewable fibers. While there are plenty of choices for artificial waves in and around our neck of the woods (such as Skudin Surf American Dream, in East Rutherford, NJ), Slater’s Surf Ranch is still the only one where you can conceivably catch the best wave of your life. However, out in the lineup, no one wave is ever the same and that sense of variety and excitement that Mother Nature produces can never be replicated by an artificial wave. Although it’s an amazing experience to ride the world’s most perfect wave, nothing will ever compare to being one with the ocean. So, here’s to another awesome surf season on LBI. 230 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

“The ocean has the power to heal.”

4th Annual Surf Therapy Event August 7th 8am-1pm (Rain Date August 6th) at 68th Street in Brant Beach Hosted by Waves of Strength, a 501c3 of LBI Free Adaptive Surf Camp for children & adolescents from the greater LBI-area who have special needs. Sign up as a surf instructor (experience needed), a land volunteer, register as a participant, or contribute through sponsorship/donation towards our mission. This is a 100% volunteer-run, non profit, local organization. Visit www.wavesofstrength.org or email wavesofstrength@gmail.com to get involved today!

wavesofstrength bay-magazine.com 231

When the world is changing, we can help you stay focused on your goals

Our customized, comprehensive advice and guidance can help you stay on track. Call us to talk it through. The Somers Gibson Group Skye Gibson, CFP®, C(k)P®, CPFA® First Vice President Wealth Management Advisor 609.484.7101 skye.gibson@ml.com

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 3100 Hingston Avenue Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 609.484.7172 fa.ml.com/somersgroup

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured

Are Not Bank Guaranteed

May Lose Value

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S. The C(k)P® logo is a registered trademark of the Retirement Advisor University, Inc. © 2022 Bank of America Corporation. All2022 rights reserved. MAP4264790 | AD-04-22-0517 | 470965PM-0322 | 05/2022 232 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER

bay-magazine.com 233

DID YOU KNOW?

NEW LOOK Written by Lisa Simek

For more than 25 years, the Southern Ocean County Hunger Foundation, which is an entirely volunteer-run, grassroots 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, has generated capital and created the wherewithal for ongoing regular donations to each of the 11 local pantries of the greater LBI region. Through recessions, pandemics and food shortages, our local food banks would have otherwise been unable to keep their shelves stocked for community members in need, but have instead been supported financially by the work of the foundation. To date, the Hunger Foundation has donated well over 1.7 million dollars directly to these pantries and has tremendously expediated hunger relief in Southern Ocean County through countless fundraisers, food drives and the maintenance of a community garden. This season the organization has decided to enter into a new era with a fresh look—the addition of a new logo. With fresh blue and green colors and adorned with the likeness of Ol’ Barney, along with a fork and grain of wheat graphic, the new imagery helps to illustrate the core of the organization’s mission: supporting the community, specifically our community, through food, nutrition and sustenance. The coloring and design will help the Hunger Foundation take stride into a new era, one with an elevated focus on reaching a new generation of community members through outlets such as social media (check out their IG @hungerfoundationofso) and partnerships with the region’s top fundraising consortiums. The Hunger Foundation continues to serve record numbers of pantries, individuals and families in need throughout Southern Ocean County due to the lasting impacts of the pandemic and soaring inflation. At present, all of the money raised through the Hunger Foundation’s fundraising efforts are distributed equally to the following local food pantries in Southern Ocean County: Barnegat Food Pantry (Barnegat) Greater Tuckerton Food Pantry (Tuckerton) Ken’s Kitchen at St. Mary’s Parish (Barnegat) Lacey Food Bank Program (Forked River) Ocean Community Church Food Ministry (Manahawkin) Pinelands Regional (Tuckerton) Southern Regional Food Pantry (Manahawkin) St. Francis Center Food Pantry (Long Beach Township) St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church Food Pantry (Waretown) St. Theresa’s Church (Little Egg Harbor) Stockton University Food Pantry (Manahawkin) Although there may not be enough direct access to fresh food in a state poignantly known for its gardens, the family of The Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County’s president, 234 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Peg Reynolds, has additionally contributed to fighting hunger in the best way they know how—through gardening. At the Stafford Community Garden at Lake Manahawkin, The Hunger Foundation’s Community Garden (which is sponsored in part by Reynolds Garden Shop, but operated entirely by volunteers), neighbors take turns donating their time to cultivate, seed, plant, water, prune, weed and harvest fruits and veggies from a garden that any member of the community can access at any time if they need some fruits or veggies. There is no gate, as the garden is open 24/7 and is accessible to anyone who is in need of fresh produce, day or night. The intent behind starting a Community Garden was to supplement all of the nonperishable boxed and canned items with fresh food that may not be stable for pantries to supply, but is equally as important in providing families with access to nutritious and delicious, seasonal produce. The Hunger Foundation serves communities throughout Southern Ocean County and is critical to the welfare of our community, serving individuals and families in need and the community’s most vulnerable members – including seniors and children living in poverty who face the daily threat of hunger. This is why it is in need of, now, more than ever, support and volunteers to help them continue to carry out their mission. The most cost-effective way to help is through a monetary donation, as it allows food banks and pantries to purchase from suppliers and farms at reduced costs, it lends flexibility, and it reduces waste. You can visit hfoso.org/donate to make a donation. Community members may can also check the events tab on The Hunger Foundation’s website, hfoso.org/events, and attend any of their upcoming fundraising events. Currently there is a cash prize 50/50 raffle with tickets available for purchase through November 2022. The tickets are available on the website and the drawing will take place on November 26, 2022. There is also an option to participate in various opportunities for dining for a cause, most notably their “Taste at Home” initiative in which diners pay a flat fee for a multi-course meal prepared by LBI’s most revered chefs—delivered right to your door. Each $125 ticket for this fundraiser will provide 375 meals to a food pantry. Generally, every single dollar donated to the organization will provide 3 meals to our neighbors. Food insecurity is an issue for children as much as it is for the elderly, and everyone in between. There is still a stigma to needing assistance and, in this time of crisis, our community is urged to show compassion for its members. Please help the Hunger Foundation of Southern Ocean County feed a neighbor, today. Visit www.hfoso.org for more information.

We are a local, all volunteer non-profit organization With a mission to support local food pantries as they assist our residents With their basic food needs and to help educate the public of the basic food needs of individuals and families in our area.

the hunger foundation of southern ocean is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, volunteer-only organization Which hosts charitable events to raise aWareness about, and funds for, local food pantries as they help thousands of families each year in the southern ocean area. since 1995, the foundation has raised more than $1.755,000 million Which has been donated to local food pantries to assist our neighbors in need.

DONATE TODAY WWW.HFOSO.ORG

bay-magazine.com 235

The

BOOK

L O N G B E A C H I S L A N D ’ S P R E M I E R R E A L E S TAT E M A G A Z I N E PUBLISHED FOUR TIMES A YEAR, 5,000 COPIES OF THE BOOK LONG BEACH ISL AND’S PREMIER R E A L E S TAT E M A G A Z I N E , A R E P R I N T E D A N D DISTRIBUTED ON LONG BEACH ISL AND AND V I C I N I T Y, I N S T R AT E G I C H I G H V O L U M E L O C AT I O N S . P L U S 2 0 , 0 0 0 D I G I TA L C O P I E S , WILL BE EMAILED TO CLIENTELE.

P U B L I C AT I O N D AT E S & A D D E A D L I N E S

The

Published

BOOK

LONG

BEACH

MARCH 1,2022

ISLAN

D’S PR EM

IER RE AL

E S TAT

E MAG A

SUNSE

Published JUNE 1, 2022

Publication

TheOK BO

EACH LONG B

ISLAND

MIE ’S PRE

E S TAT E R REAL

MAGAZ

SUMME R F LUXU WEEK O

R 2021

18 Y PA G E

THE BOOK | LONG BE ACH ISL AND ’S

236 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

RE AL E S TAT E MAG A ZINE

| SPRIN G 202 2

The

TheOK BO

EACH LONG B

PREMIE LAND’S

BEACH

ISLAN

D’S PR EM

IER RE AL ES TAT

E MAG A

SPRIN

LUXUR

R REAL

MAGAZI E S TAT E

NAUTIC

C O N TA C T G A R Y @ B AY - M A G . C O M

PREM IER

BOOK

LONG

OCTOBER 1, 2022 AD DEADLINE 8/20/22

SPRIN G 202 2 T TER RACE PA G E 18

INE

AUGUST 1, 2022 AD DEADLINE 6/22/22

Publication

ZINE

R 2022 SUMME PA G E 2 0

M AL DREA

ZINE

G 202 1

Y HOL G

AT E P ROPE

RTY P .15

P H O T O B Y M I C H A E L S PA R K P H O T O G R A P H Y

bay-magazine.com 237

HAVE CONFIDENCE IN HAVE CONFIDENCE IN YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE. YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE. WHILE WE CAN’T PREDICT WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE CAN WHILE WE CAN’T PREDICT WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE CAN HELP ENSURE OUR INVESTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS REMAIN IN OUR INVESTMENT IN LINEHELP WITHENSURE YOUR GOALS, PRIORITIES,RECOMMENDATIONS AND PREFERENCES REMAIN OVER TIME. LINE WITH YOUR GOALS, PRIORITIES, AND PREFERENCES OVER TIME.

We are here for you every step of the way, and are dedicated to helping you through changes, We are here forfor youwhat’s everyahead, step ofand the ensuring way, and you are dedicated to helping youfinancial throughgoals. changes, preparing you stay on track with your preparing you for what’s ahead, and ensuring you stay on track with your financial goals.

Contact us today to learn more about how we could work with you. Contact us today800.548.2104 to learn more about how we could work with you. or 717.519.4188 800.548.2104 or 717.519.4188 Pete is a resident of LBI and available for local appointments. Pete is a resident of LBI and available for local appointments.

Peter L. Costanzo, Jr., CFP®, CRPC®, AWMA®, AAMS®, CLTC® | EVP / Wealth Management, Financial Advisor Peter L. Costanzo, Jr., CFP®, CRPC®, AWMA®, AAMS®, CLTC® | EVP / Wealth Management, Financial Advisor Laura Pontz | Account Executive Laura Pontz | | Registered Account Executive Laura Jacobs Private Client Associate Laura Jacobs | Registered Private Client Associate 1650 Crooked Oak Drive, Suite 100, Lancaster, PA 17601 1650 Crooked Oak Drive, Suite 100, Lancaster, PA 17601 717.519.4188 | CostanzoWM@janney.com | www.CostanzoWM.com 717.519.4188 | CostanzoWM@janney.com | www.CostanzoWM.com

Thank you to our loyal customers.

bay-magazine.com 239 just 2 miles from LBI | 445 Route 72 East • Manahawkin | 609.597.4700 | barlowbuickgmc.com

bay magazine S U M M E R

2 0 2 2

240 BAY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022