EXIT ZERO Sentinels of the Shore: The people behind the Beach Patrol. PLUS: Dog-friendly guide to Cape May!
august 2013 ÂŤ $4.95
Dining with the ultimate view.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
R eserve
our
C hef ’ s T able …
An intimate, private room for up to 14 people featuring the chef’s special tasting menu! Call for details.
at the
OCEAN CLUB HOTEL 1035 Beach Avenue, Cape May NJ 08204 capemayoceanclubhotel.com
609.884.7000
the big events guide 7
inside this issue
The events and happenings you need to know about
the a to z of cape may cocktails 18 Part three of our ultra-useful series. Meet the bartenders, and the drinks!
the ultimate food and drink chart 27 Seven-page guide... all you need to know about indulging in Cape May.
confessions of a small-town vet 46 How Bob Moffatt found his way to his beloved Cape May Point.
the dog-friendly guide to cape may 54 Where to eat and stay with them... plus, meet the coolest local pets.
beyond the horizon 66 A preview of artist Stan Sperlak’s new show at SOMA.
grasso goes wild 72 Shark teeth, grizzly bear claws, raven talons? It’s beautiful art!
the ultimate cape may bargain 76 How to spend $25 and save $460 while having a blast.
sentinels of the shore 84 Meet the men and women of Cape May Beach Patrol.
chris dolman is ready for take-off 98 The main man in Cape May Stage’s unmissable new farce.
richard crossley’s excellent adventure 104 From Cape May to Alaska, and back. In a Honda Pilot.
cape may designer show house returns 115 Are you ready to be inspired?
a classic chiller comes to east lynne 121 World premiere of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Be afraid...
the ultimate cape may to-do guide 131 All the recreational activities you need to know about.
the definitive cape may trolley guide 144 From ghosts to oceanfront mansions... it’s all here!
welcome to cape may wine country 152 Sample what The New York Times called a great wine-growing area.
a surfing lesson 160 The six things beginners need to know.
cover painting by marie natale
about us editor/publisher/designer Jack Wright jack@exitzero.us advertising manager Jason Black jason@exitzero.us staff writer Diane Stopyra diane@exitzero.us staff artist Mike DeMusz mike@exitzero.us interns Eliza Crawford, Nicole Dever, Meghan Meehan creative consultant Victor Grasso
Serving fine food since 1988
historical editor Ben Miller photographers Aleksey Moryakov, Frank Weiss graphic artist Doree Bardes contributing writers Kate Chadwick, Mark Chamberlain, Catherine Dugan, Jack Fichter, David Gray, Terry O’Brien, Tom Sims distribution Ashley Larson labeler Mary Smith exit zero store & gallery manager Michele Mulligan exit zero store & gallery team Diane Carson, Martha Kesler, Sharon Holden, Beth Olivero, Michelle O’Leary
Open Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (609) 884-9119 322 Washington Street Mall, Cape May www.tishasfinedining.com Pet Friendly Back Patio! exit zero
exit zero color magazine is published six times a year. Annual subscription is $25. Or $50 for these AND our 47 black-and-white issues. It’s a great deal! To subscribe call (609) 770-8479 or visit ezstore.us Published by Exit Zero Publishing, Inc. 109 Sunset Boulevard, Suite D, Cape May, NJ 08204 Telephone: (609) 770-8479 Fax: (609) 770-8481 E-mail: info@exitzero.us Website: exitzero.us Online store: ezstore.us
2 August 2013
If you really want to experience Cape May, show your mug at ours.
Annual Froth Blowing Contest Sunday, September 8 Call for details
Delicious Meats from World-Famous Carnegie Deli in Manhattan
A local institution for more than half a century. Classic traditional bar meets full-service family-friendly restaurant. Live entertainment nightly! 426 WASHINGTON STREET MALL, cape may • (609) 884-3459
Down-home cooking... with a terrific view!
Beach Avenue & Grant Street, Cape May • 884-3772 exit zero
4 August 2013
editor’s letter
“West Into the Night” is part of Stan Sperlak’s upcoming exhibition at SOMA, called “Breaking the Horizon” — see more on pages 66-71.
A
lady visited our store (aka Exit Zero Global HQ) on Sunset Boulevard the other day and paid us a lovely compliment. “I’m really enjoying your color issues this year,” she said. “That last one was something else. I don’t know how you’re going to follow it. Those stories were just great.” First of all, I was chuffed (translation: really happy) to hear this. We’ve significantly raised the bar with our color issues this year (better stories, better photography), and we love it when the readers notice, as many of you have this year. Secondly, I’m delighted to tell this lady (I’m sure you’re reading) and everyone else that this issue might be the best we’ve done yet. And here’s why... Once again, Diane Stopyra has gotten under the skin of a subject with her feature on Cape May lifeguards. If you loved her interviews in previous issues with new US Coast Guard recruits and nuns enjoying the retreat of St Mary’s by the Sea, then you won’t want to miss these entertaining, enlightening vignettes. Diane chatted to six men and women from Cape May Beach Patrol, discussing everything from dolphins to pedicures. Photographer Frank Weiss did another fantastic job with a beautiful portfolio of inspiring pictures. The Stopyra-Weiss combo also teamed up for a feature on one of my favorite locals, Dr Bob Moffatt, who for years has taken care of my mutts at Cape May Veterinary Hospital, but who also finds the time to act as a Cape May Point Commissioner. The Exit Zero team chatted over breakfast at The Red Store with Dr Bob and although we couldn’t use ALL of the stories that came up in conversation, I think exit zero
you’ll enjoy this chat, and the adorable photographs. Speaking of inspiring photographs, you will want to read the story on Richard Crossley, another local icon. Richard has been birdwatching in Cape May since the 1980s, moving here from his native England to devote his life to the study of birds, and nature in general. A few weeks ago, Richard got in his Honda Pilot and took off on a 13,000-mile odyssey from Cape May to Alaska and back. Well, actually, as I write, he’s not back yet — I figure he’s somewhere in the wilds of Idaho. Richard is also a brilliant photographer and shot some images of his trip to go along with a compelling interview with Diane Stopyra from somewhere in the middle of Alaska. Two more inspiring peeps are local artists, Stan Sperlak and Victor Grasso. Both have featured in this magazine many times before, and it never gets old. Both men have shows at SOMA NewArt Gallery later this month and I caught up with them to find out what we could expect to see. From Stan, some more entrancing images of his beloved South Jersey. And from Victor? Decorative art using teeth and claws from animals like grizzly bears, great white sharks, sabert0oth cats, wolves and killer whales. It’s a lot more beautiful than it sounds. All that, PLUS the definitive guide to dog-friendly Cape May. Yes, you CAN bring your pet to eat AND stay in America’s Original Seaside Resort. Enjoy August, and enjoy the issue. JACK WRIGHT Editor/Publisher
5 August 2013
From the owners of the Southern Mansion
Visit our 200 Year Old Farm Land for Daily Wine & Sangria tastings, tours, & private wine paired events.
Willow Creek is proud to feature premium estate grown wines from New Jersey’s outer coastal plain. Wine & Sangria Tastings Daily... Reservations Strongly Recommended Vineyard Farm Tours on Our Electric Farm Cart Private Wine Paired Events 160-168 Stevens Street, Cape May 609.770.8782 • 609.884.7171 willowcreekwinerycapemay.com
The big August events guide
August 5 CHAD AND JEREMY: STOCKTON GOES TO THE BEACH CONCERT From humble beginnings in London coffee shops, these guys were discovered by famed movie composer John Barry. Show starts at 8pm at Convention Hall. Call 609-884-9563.
The National Lighthouse Day will be held in Cape May on Wednesday, August 7. Expect pirates... Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
August 5-9 MARINE SCIENCE/OCEAN GLIDER CAMP Children in grades six through eight will explore their passion for the ocean through hands-on experiments and engineering challenges. Call 609-8988848.
through the shallows of Cape May’s harbor. Call the Nature Center of Cape May on 609-898-8848. August 7 COVE TO HIGBEE BEACH KAYAK TOUR It’s a thrilling sunset tour designed by the Nature Center of Cape May for more adventurous paddlers. For more information, call 609-898-8848. August 7 DIPPIN’ FOR FISHES: A HARBOR WADING TOUR Join an expert naturalist to explore and learn about the marine species that make the harbor and salt marsh special. Cost for member is: $8, adults; $5 children. Call 609-898-8848.
August 6-29 FAMILY FISHING TRIPS Every Tuesday and Thursday, it’s fun for the whole gang aboard Cape May Lady. Call 609-780-7900.
August 7 national lighthouse day at the cape may lighthouse Enjoy a pirate invasion and family activities at the base of the lighthouse including pirate-hat making, games, music and craft vendors. 9am to 2pm. Call 609-884-5404.
August 6 CRABBING 101 Come aboard the 40-foot Skimmer for a hands-on crabbing experience and demonstration. Call 609889-8848.
August 7 CHILDREN’S THEATRE Stockton Performing Art’s Center, in partnership with the Greater Ocean City Theatre Company,
August 6-29 HARBOR SAFARI Tuesday and Thursdays, pull a 20-foot seine net exit zero
7 August 2013
“BEST AMERICAN” and “TOP 25 RESTAURANTS IN THE STATE” New Jersey Monthly
Dinner from 5:15pm (closed Tuesday) oceanfront porch dining available 3 course prix-fixe $24 from 5:15-6:15pm
weddings • rehearsals • private parties
Beach Avenue & Howard Street at the
H o t e l M a c o mb e r
609 884 8811 unionparkdiningroom.com
exit zero
8 August 2013
presents children’s theatre at 10am at Convention Hall. Call 609-884-9563.
August 10 SISTER CAPE BIKE TOUR Get familiar with the “other side:” our sister cape, Cape Henlopen State Park. Expect to cover about 20 miles while exploring natural and cultural gems. Call 609-898-8848.
August 8 NIGHTTIME GHOST CRAB SEARCH What can run sideways, dig a hole without a shovel, and has 10 legs? Join the Nature Center of Cape May for an evening stroll to look for nocturnal creatures. Call 609898-8848 for more information. August 9 princesses and pirates luncheon Young buccaneers and maidens are invited to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, for a pirate/princessthemed luncheon. Lunch includes princess dress-up, mani-pedis and etiquette tips for the girls, and pirate gear, lessons in pirate walking and balloon swords for the boys. $23 for adults, $15 for children (ages 3-12). Price includes lunch. 11:30am. Call 609-884-5404. August 10 second annual craft beer and crab festival Come to the beautiful grounds of the
August 10 KAYAK CLINIC This class will introduce the paddler to kayak equipment, water conditions, and self and aided rescues. For details, call 609-898-8848.
Peter Noone will lead Herman’s Hermits at Cape May Convention Hall on August 12.
Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, and experience what CBS New York named one of New Jersey’s Top Five Summer Festivals — in only its first year! Runs from 11am to 7pm. Call 609-8845404 for more information.
exit zero
9 August 2013
August 10 delaware bay lighthouse adventure Come aboard the Cape May Whale Watcher or the Spirit of Cape May to view and photograph historic lighthouses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From 10am to 5pm. Call 609-884-5404 for more information. August 10-11 36TH ANNUAL PROMENADE CRAFT SHOW Take in that beautiful boardwalk view
while you browse artsy goodies made by local artisans from 10am until 5pm on the promenade. Call 609-884-9565. August 12 PETER NOONE AND THE HERMAN’S HERMITS: STOCKTON GOES TO THE BEACH CONCERT This iconic British pop band sold more than 80 million records and achieved 20 Top 20 hits, including “Mrs Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter.” Show starts at 8pm at Cape May Convention Hall. Call 609-884-9563. August 12-16 KAYAK AND PADDLEBOARD CAMP Aqua Trails Kayaking and Paddleboard Camp is fun for adventurers between 12 and 16. They’ll learn safety, basic paddling skills, and self and aided rescues. Call 884-5600. August 13 CRABBING 101 Come aboard the 40-foot Skimmer for a hands-on crabbing experience and demonstration. Call 609-889-8848.
August 14 family fun day at the lighthouse The 1859 Cape May Lighthouse located in Cape May Point State Park, becomes a beacon of fun. Enjoy kid-friendly activities, performers, entertainment and unique craft vendors at the base of the lighthouse. 9am to 2pm. Call 609-8845404. August 15 NIGHTTIME GHOST CRAB SEARCH Join the Nature Center for an evening stroll to look for these and other nocturnal creatures. Call 609-898-8848. August 16 princesses and pirates luncheon Young buccaneers and maidens are invited to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, for a pirate-princess-themed luncheon. 11:30am. Call 609-884-5404. August 18 teddy bear tea party BYOB — Bring your own bear (or dolly). Teddy Bear Tea Parties at the Emlen Phys-
ick Estate feature kid-friendly menus and teddy bear music. Miss Jeanne and a special guest from The Cape May Teddy Bear Co. will be presenting stories and activities. 11am and 1pm. $18 for adults; $10 for children (ages 3-12). 1048 Washington Street. Call 609-884-5404. August 18-23 22ND MID-ATLANTIC $500,000 TOURNAMENT This event is still called the “mother of all marlin tournaments.” Boat for boat, it is the richest marlin and tuna tournament in the world. Call 609-884-2400. August 19 EXPLORE THE SHORE Children join marine biologists as they pull at 20-foot siene net through the waters of Cape May’s harbor. Call 609-898-8848. August 19-23 GUY HILL BUCKELEW MEMORIAL YOUTH FISHING CAMP Captain Norm and his crew will teach young (third grade and up) anglers using a combination of classroom activities, skills practice and actual hands-on fishing
“100 Most Romantic Restaurant” in America — 2013 o p e n t a b l e
Open Seven Days Live
piano nightly
1 3 0 1 B e a c h Av e n u e C a p e M ay
exit zero
609.884.9090
10 August 2013
petershieldsinn.com
An exquisite gourmet experience... so much more than olive oils to indulge in. Plus, three words... bacon olive oil. Need we say more?
• OLIVE OILS • BALSAMIC VINEGARS
• FRESH BREADS • GOURMET SALTS • RUBS/SPICES
• GIFT BOXES • PASTA • JAMS/SPREADS
• SUGARS • MUSTARDS • DIPS
324 CARPENTERS LANE • CAPEMAYOLIVEOILCOMPANY.COM
609.898.4441 exit zero
11 August 2013
opportunities. Call 609-898-8848. August 20 CRABBING 101 Come aboard the 40-foot Skimmer for a hands-on crabbing experience and demonstration. Call 609-889-8848. August 20-22 FULL MOON KAYAKING TOURS This is a tidal marsh tour with the added attraction of seeing a sunset over the water and the ascent of a full moon while an exceptionally high tide rises. Call 609898-8848. August 20-22 PRIVATE HUMMINGBIRD GARDEN TOURS From 10am to 3:30pm, savor an array of diverse gardens that have hosted nesting hummingbirds since May, and are now drawing migrants. Call 609-898-8848. August 21 DIPPIN’ FOR FISHES: A HARBOR WADING TOUR Join an expert naturalist from the Nature Center of Cape May to explore and learn
about the marine species that make the harbor and salt marsh special. Cost for member is: $8, adults; $5 children. Call 609-898-8848. August 21-22 FULL MOON KAYAKING TOURS This is a tidal marsh tour with the added attraction of seeing a sunset over the water and the ascent of a full moon while an exceptionally high tide rises. Call 609898-8848. August 22 NIGHTTIME GHOST CRAB SEARCH What can run sideways, dig a hole without a shovel, and has 10 legs? Join the Nature Center of Cape May to look for nocturnal creatures. Call 609-898-8848. August 23 COVE TO HIGBEE BEACH KAYAK TOUR It’s a thrilling sunset tour designed for more adventurous paddlers. For details, call 609-898-8848. August 26 WHAT’S YUM ABOUT BEACH PLUMS From 8:30am to noon, explore the culinary
delights of this shrub, native to the northeastern coastal US. Call 609-898-8848. August 19 EXPLORE THE SHORE Children ages six and up will join marine biologists as they pull at 20-foot siene net through the waters of Cape May’s harbor. Call 609-898-8848. August 27 CRABBING 101 Come aboard the 40-foot Skimmer for a hands-on crabbing experience and demonstration. Call 609-889-8848. August 29 NIGHTTIME GHOST CRAB SEARCH What can run sideways, dig a hole without a shovel, and has 10 legs? Join the Nature Center for an evening stroll to look for nocturnal creatures. Call 609-898-8848. August 30 JUNIOR CLAMSHELL PITCHING TOURNAMENT Check out Windsor Beach for this tournament, which brings out the kid in all of us. Call 609-884-9565.
and
CLIPPER SHIP PUB
Dinner from 5pm 1/2 Price Raw Bar Items 5-6pm in the Pub Lite Fare Pub Menu Sun. thru Fri. from 5pm Early Dinner Specials 5-6pm Ample Free Parking Reservations: 609-884-5878 • 991 Ocean Drive, Cape May • www.blueclawrestaurant.com exit zero
12 August 2013
“At the Beach” 715 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-1233 zoescapemay.com OPEN EVERY DAY
B E AC H F R O N T E AT E RY Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Get Hooked on Zoe’s Seafood
ICE CREAM COFFEE DESSERT
Breakfast - Homemade Muffins, Pancakes & Omelettes Lunch - Our Own Roasted Turkey & Roast Beef, Cape May’s Largest Cheese Steaks & Hoagies. Vegetarians, Enjoy Our Homemade Veggie Burgers. Our Fried Chicken... A Leg in Your Hand Will Put A Smile On Your Face!
Entire Menu Available for Take-Out Patio Dining/Pet Friendly... BYOD exit zero
13 August 2013
August 31 WEST CAPE MAY TOMATO FESTIVAL Featuring Jersey fresh grown tomatoes, tomato jewelry, tomato soups, tomato tacos and all things tomato, fine vendors, South Jersey artists, handmade jewelry and stained glass. Located in Wilbraham Park from 9am to 5pm. Call 609-8849325. August 31 - September 1 21ST SUMMER SEND-OFF CRAFT SHOW It’s already September, which means autumn isn’t far off, which is nothing short of depressing for beach lovers across the city. But here’s something to raise your spirits: browse goodies made by some seriously talented craftsmen! Call 609884-9565. September 12 FALL SIDEWALK SALE Stroll the charming streets of Cape May while taking advantage of unreal bargains from local merchants. Event lasts from 9am until 7pm, all around the Washington Street Mall. Visit washingtonstreetmall. com.
September 14 delaware bay lighthouse adventure Come aboard the Cape May Whale Watcher or the Spirit of Cape May to view and photograph historic lighthouses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 10am to 5pm. Call 609-884-5404. September 14 Harvest Food & Wine-Tasting Dinner The Carriage House Café at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, hosts a dinner inspired by local products co-sponsored by the Seaside Cheese Company and the Cape May Winery. Representatives from both sponsors will be on hand to discuss their products and appropriate pairings. Starts 6pm. Limited event; reserve early. $85 per person. Call 609-8845404 or visit www.capemaymac.org. September 14-22 17th Annual Food and wine celebration Indulge in the “restaurant capital of New Jersey.” Enjoy winery tours, tastings, demonstrations, Chefs’ Dine-Arounds, dinners
and much more! Events may be attended individually. Call 609-884-5404 or 800275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org. September 15 Cape May Clambake Here’s a perfect pairing for a fall afternoon at the shore. Tour the vineyard, enjoy live entertainment, sample the fine wines at Hawk Haven Vineyard and then enjoy your favorite wine to complement a traditional clambake of steamed clams, lobster tail, corn on the cob, shrimp, mussels and more. Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery, 600 South Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande. From noon to 3 p.m. Admission $55. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org. September 15, 16, 18 and 19 Chef’s Dine-Arounds Board MAC’s trolley for a five-course gourmet feast. Five different premier restaurants will each serve a course during your gourmet experience. Wine is paired to each course. A trolley shuttle between restaurants is provided. Each night features a different combination of restaurants. $125 per person (gratuity included). Call 609884-5404 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Over 40 Varieties of Local, American and International Honey! Gifts from the hive and Much More!
Try Our Tasting Bar!
135 S unset B lvd ., W est C ape M ay ( behind the E xit Z ero S tore ) 609.425.6434 • F ind us on F acebook ! exit zero
14 July 2013
a cape may moment
Bob and Marissa Quercetti on the beach July 18. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
Seaside Cheese Co.
A Little Slice of the Caribbean
Over 100 Imported Cheeses & Meats... Gourmet Olives & Dipping Oils... C a v i a r, E s c a r g o t & G o u r m e t I t e m s . . . P r i v a t e Ta s t i n g s A v a i l a b l e !
ISLAND GRILL’S FRESH FISH PREPARED GRILLED, SAUTÉED, OR BLACKENED WITH YOUR CHOICE OF SAUCE. LEMON NAGE, TROPICAL FRUIT SALSA, OR MANGO BEURRE BLANC... AND TRY OUR CHEF’S JERK SEASONING
ISLAND GRILL does catering! PROVIDING FULL SERVICES FOR ALL OCCASIONS PROFESSIONAL SERVICE • CREATIVITY INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS • DETAIL ORIENTED CAROL HERFORTH - 609.408.0612
311 MANSION STREET, CAPE MAY RESERVATIONS 609.884.0200 * CASH ONLY
NEW Location... 110 Park blvd WEST CAPE MAY • 884-8700 exit zero
16 August 2013
KICK BACK and RELAX... with good food and fun drinks
Wing Night
Thurs 9-11pm Half Off Wings $2 Miller Lite Drafts
Live Music
MON 6-10pM Cowabunga Chris Tues 3-7pm Cowabunga Chris Thurs 6-10pm Marnie & Nate Fri 6-10pm Ann Oswald
Fri, Aug 23 4-9pm Food . Drinks Raffle Drawings $1000’s in Prizes
Open Daily • Lunch • Dinner • Late Night Daily Happy Hour 4-7pm • Live Music
Chestnut & Olde NJ Aves • North Wildwood 609.435.5691 • www.northendamericangrill.com
Seafood • Steak • Ribs • Gourmet Burgers • Great Apps exit zero
17 August 2013
WE CONclude THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE ON WHERE AND WHAT TO DRINK, AND ASK THE BARTENDERS TO DISH ON SOME OF THEIR OWN FAVORITE THINGS. INTERVIEWS BY MARK CHAMBERLAIN photographs by aleksey moryakov
exit zero
18 August 2013
The A to Z of Cape May cocktails exit zero
19 August 2013
Cape May cocktails: The a to z guide... Pt 3 } merion inn A N AWAR D- WINNING MICRO BRE WERY
Visit Our All-New Tap Room!
TAP RO O M HO U R S
Wednes day & Thur sday 4-8pm Fr iday, Saturday & Sun day 12-8pm P I N T S • TAST ING S • G IFT CERTIFICAT ES ME RCHAND IS E
Live M u s i c on Sat u rday s ! H OST YOUR NEXT PART Y AT THE BRE WERY !
1 2 8 8 HO R N E T ROA D RIO GRANDE NJ C AP E MAY B R E W E RY. C O M 6 0 9 . 8 49. 9 933 ( at t h e c a p e m ay c o u n t y a i r p o r t )
exit zero
The bartender: Mark Robart. The signature cocktail: The Vicky T. The ingredients: Stoli Orange vodka, white lillet, splash cranberry, served in martini glass, straight up, orange garnish. How long have you’ve worked here: Three years. Your own drink of choice: Founders Kentucky Stout beer. Worst thing a customer can do at the bar: No such thing — I like to call it a challenge. Best pickup line you’ve heard: “Your father must have owned a diamond mine because you are a real gem.” And the worst pickup line: “I’m on vacation, wanna get nasty?” Best thing about Cape May: The people who visit this town are friendly and sophisticated. One thing you would change about Cape May: I would like to see wider streets. Biggest tip you’ve ever received: $100. Dream job? History teacher.
20 August 2013
a cape may moment
Camryn Maira on the beach July 18. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
Freshest Ingredients Fantastic Specials Friendly Atmosphere Reservations Recommended
600 Park Blvd West Cape May
609-884-7660 backstreetcapemaynj.com
exit zero
21 August 2013
Cape May cocktails: The a to z guide... Pt 3 } oyster bay
Modern American cuisine with a cool and casual vibe...
1 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May (609) 898-0100 • www.blackduckonsunset.com
A family place A first-date place A dinner-and-a-movie place A perfect place for any occasion.
godmother’s
broadway & west perry street cape may (609) 884-4543 .godmothersrestaurant.com
exit zero
The bartender: Eric Halbruner. The signature cocktail: Sparkling Berries Martini. The ingredients: Van Gogh Acai Blueberry Vodka, cranberry juice, club soda, garnished with blueberries and raspberries. How long have you’ve worked here: Six years. Your own drink of choice: Pineapple mojito. Worst thing a customer can do at the bar: Coming to the bar and not knowing what to order. Best pickup line you’ve heard: “They should pay you to sit here every night.” And the worst pickup line: “Hey, I got a truck outside, let’s go make out.” Best thing about Cape May: The ocean and being able to eat at raw bar. One thing you would change about Cape May: Get rid of the beach tags. Favorite beach in Cape May: Poverty Beach. Ever served a celebrity: Jack Wright. Biggest tip you’ve ever received: $100. Dream job? Bartending at Oyster Bay.
22 August 2013
a cape may moment
Skateboarding on the streets of Cape May. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
Oyster Bay
Coffees • Smoothies Breakfast Sandwiches Specialty Sandwiches Bagels • Baked Goods Cappuccinos • Lattes Gourmet Cream Cheeses
STEAKS SEAFOOD
Dinner Nightly from 5pm Happy Hour Daily • 4:00-6:30pm Check Out Our Fabulous New Bar featuring a New Bar Menu!
7 Gurney Street, Cape May (609) 898-8088 Open Daily @ 6am 3704 Bayshore Rd., North Cape May
(609) 884-2111 • 615 Lafayette St, Cape May exit zero
23 August 2013
(609) 846-0040 Open Daily @ 6:30am
West Cape May Farmers Market West Cape May
Farmers Market Tuesdays 3pm-7:30pm June 25 - August 27 Proceeds Benefit Environmental and Shade Tree Commissions of West Cape May
Take a stroll on over, just minutes from the Washington Street Mall!
• • •
Live Music Great Food Family Fun
Behind Borough Hall In West Cape May 732 Broadway & Central Ave
exit zero
24 August 2013
Dreamy summer afternoon.... ENJOY A CLASSIC TEA LUNCHEON
then stroll across the street and visit this year’s
DESIGNER SHOW HOUSE The Cavalier Cottage
Designer Show House Luncheon Tour
offered daily from 11:30am-1pm daily Designer Show House open daily 1pm-4pm
CARRIAGE HOUSE
&
fe a C TEAROOM
1048 Washington St. at the Emlen Physick Estate
Open daily 11am-4pm • 609-884-5111
Your search has ended...
CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB of CAPE MAY offers you a unique venue overlooking beautiful Cape May Harbor. Our ever-changing water view and exceptional cuisine will lend a distinctive touch to your special day.
Let us make make your wedding, birthday, anniversary, cocktail party, or holiday gathering spectacular!
1819 Delaware Avenue, Cape May, New Jersey 08204 (609) 884-8000 • cyccm.com and capemaybeachwedding.com continued on page 56 exit zero
25 August 2013
exit zero
26 August 2013
The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe
Meals served
Price range of entrées
Bar or BYOB?
Should I book?
Food for kids?
Other details
L, D
$10-$30 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
B, L, D
$15-$45 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
FULL BAR
YES
YES
ub HU
A ca Mia 524 Washington Street Mall (609) 884-6661 www.acamia.com
A lovely spot on Cape May’s Washington Street Mall. Fine food of northern Italy and world-class peoplewatching!
Aleathea’s 7 Ocean Street, Cape May (609) 884-5555, Ext. 226 www.innofcapemay.com
Offers superb food in a graceful setting at the glorious old Inn of Cape May. Plus, there’s a cozybut-elegant bar with access to the oceanfront patio. Check out the antique-filled lobby first.
Akroteria 307 Beach Avenue Cape May
Stop on by for lunch during your beach day. Enjoy the sea breeze with your family and take your pick from pizzas, steaks, pita pockets and more. Bring the kids and even the dog.
L, D
$3-$10
BYOB
NO
YES
b HU
Avalon coffee 7 Gurney St, Cape May, 898-8088 & 3823 Bayshore Rd, North Cape May (609) 846-0040
Superior coffee that’s always fresh, and healthy food that’s perfect for breakfast and lunch. First-class wraps, sandwiches and bagels, along with a good range of smoothies and cold drinks.
B, L
$3-$8 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
NO
YES
b H
Axelsson’s Blue Claw 991 Ocean Drive, Cape May (609) 884-5878 www.blueclawrestaurant.com
Enjoy fine dining near the harbor — just go over the quaint old drawbridge. There is an elegant dining room, a cozy fireplace, and the classic Clipper Ship Pub.
D
$24-$30 Cards: V, MC, D
FULL BAR
YES
YES
u b H
backstreet 600 Park Blvd, West Cape May (609) 884-7660 www.backstreetcapemaynj.com
Downhome cooking, a laidback vibe and superior desserts in this gem of a place, a few minutes from Cape May. They have plenty of free parking and delicious nightly specials.
B, D
$13-$29 Cards: V, MC, AE
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
BEach house restaurant 711 Beach Avenue Cape May (609) 884-8808
Beautifully located right on the oceanfront, this restaurant was formerly Henry’s on the Beach. Very family-friendly, offering a selection of classic American and Mediterranean dishes.
B, L, D
$4.99$25.99
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
BEachside smokehouse 416 S. Broadway, West Cape May (609) 600-2255 www.beachsidesmokehouse.com
A brand-new addition to town, at the site of the former Copper Fish restaurant. Enjoy traditional family-style barbecued treats. And say hello to front man Sean Conners!
L, D
$8-$29
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
BELLA VIDA CAFÉ 406 N. Broadway, West Cape May (609) 884-6332 www.bellavidacafe.com
“The local café with a wholesome aroma” is what they call it... and that’s how we describe it. You can tell that everything is home cooked here. Always fresh, always delicious.
B, L, D
$5-$25 Cards: V, MC, D
BYOB
NO
YES
u H
ben and jerry’s 414 Washington St. Mall, Cape May (609) 884-3040 www.benjerry.com
There’s ice cream, and then there’s Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Centrally-located on the mall, it’s a great spot to take a break from shopping and people-watch for a spell.
Ice Cream
$3-$7 Cards: V, MC, D
N/A
NO
YES
u b H
big wave burritos 1400 Texas Avenue Cape May (609) 898-To Go
Excellent burrito eatery with a beachy, oh-so-casual vibe and excellent food — great smoothies, too!
L, D
$2-$8 Cash Only
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H
The Black Duck 1 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May (609) 898-0100 www.blackduckonsunset.com
A chic interior and stylish Modern American cuisine from acclaimed chef (and owner) Chris Hubert, but the ambience is anything but pretentious. There’s a nice laidback vibe.
D
$15-$28 Cards: V, MC
BYOB
YES
NO
u b H
bliss 326 Carpenter’s Lane, Cape May and 600 Park Boulevard, West Cape May (609) 898-6161
Outrageously delicious ice cream, plus it’s homemade, organic, and triple-premium. With lots of very interesting, irresistible flavors you don’t see in your everyday ice-cream parlor. Get your fix today.
Ice Cream
$1-$7 Cash Only
N/A
NO
YES
b H
Blue moon pizza 425 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-3033 www.bluemoonpizzanj.com
Whether you’re getting delivery, catering or coming by with your pooch, Blue Moon offers excellent pizzas, steaks and Mediterranean salads for the whole family.
L, D
$5-$17 Cards: V, MC
BYOB
NO
YES
ub HU
The Blue Pig Tavern 251 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-8422 www.congresshall.com
Congress Hall’s restaurant is better than ever... and so many of its menu items are coming from the local Beach Plum Farm. The Pig serves classic tavern food with quite a a twist or two along the way.
B, L, D
$12-$36 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
FULL BAR
YES
YES
u b H
SYMBOLS KEY
u Onsite parking
Handicap accessible exit zero
H
Takeout available
27 August 2013
U Dog-friendly patio
sta rt
ing t4 decade 2... just righ
Cape May cocktails: The a to z guide... Pt 3
U
} pilot house
ww
w. h o tdogtomm
o c . s y
m
jackson at beach avenue, cape may
(609) 884-8388
UKAI
A s ia n r e s tau r a n t Japanese, chinese, Thai, malaysian CUISINE Lunch | Dinner | Take-out | Reservations Available
www.sushiukai.com OPEN 7 DAYS: Mon-Thur 11am-10:30pm Fri & Sat 11am-11pm | Sun 12noon-10pm
PH 609-770-7773 1500 Route 47 South, #E1E2 (next to Dollar Tree) Rio Grande NJ 08242
exit zero
The bartender: Debbie Bove. The signature cocktail: Summer Fizz Martini. The ingredients: Deep Eddy Grapefruit Vodka, splash of grapefruit juice, Champagne float. How long you’ve worked here: Twenty-three years. Your own drink of choice: Sweet Tea Vodka and lemonade. Worst thing a customer can do when ordering: Ask to “make it stronger”. Best pickup line you’ve heard: “If you’re as charming as you are beautiful, this is going to be a great night.” And the worst pickup line: “Hey babe, you’re friggin beautiful.” Favorite thing about Cape May: Riding my bike, the beaches and the laidback people. One thing you’d change about Cape May: Make parking free. Favorite beach in Cape May: Philadelphia. Ever served a celebrity? Philadelphia Flyer Bernie Parent and the Watson Brothers. Biggest tip: $50. Dream job: Bartend in Key West.
28 August 2013
The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe
Meals served
Price range of entrées
Bar or BYOB?
Should I book?
Food for kids?
Other details
Brunch, D
$10-$32 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
NO
u
blue Rose Inn 653 Washington Street, Cape May (609) 435-5458 blueroseinn.com
This is Cape May at its best — a fine, family-owned, recently opened restaurant in a newly renovated B&B on a beautiful, tree-lined street.
The boiler room 251 Beach Avenue, (609) 884-8422 www.congresshall.com
Congress Hall’s chic basement nightclub – all bare metal and brickwork – has an assortment of great music on the weekends and a cool vibe. Say hello to Shane the bartender!
Cocktails
Cards: V, MC, AE, D
FULL BAR
NO
NO
u
The brown room 251 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-8422 www.congresshall.com
Congress Hall’s lovely lounge is called Cape May’s Living Room for a reason. The decor is elegant but casual, the drinks are great, the staff is cool, and the place just says “classy.”
Bar Menu & Cocktails
Cards: V, MC, AE, D
FULL BAR
NO
NO
u
Cabanas 429 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-4800, www. cabanasonthebeach.com
The party is here — always warm and friendly in this lively beachfront bar, featuring great food and some of the best live bands around.
B, L, D
$8-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
FULL BAR
YES
YES
b H
cape may bakers 482 W. Perry Street, Cape May (609) 884-7454 www.capemaybakers.com
At the same location since 1979, Cape May Bakers serves fresh coffee, fine pastries, gourmet desserts and cakes for all occasions. Plus great daily specials, too!
B, L
$2-$12
N/A
NO
YES
b H
Cape May brewing co. 1288 Hornet Road, Rio Grande (609) 849-9933 www.capemaybrewery.com
It’s the first microbrewery at the Jersey shore, and it’s creating quite the buzz... they won Best IPA at the 2012 Atlantic City Beer Fest. Check out the new tasting room.
Brewery
$5-$11 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
Bar
NO
NO
u b H
Cape May Honey Farm 135 Sunset Boulevard West Cape May (609) 425-6434
Cape May Honey Farm offers local raw honey, imported honey, and home and beauty products that have been homemade using beeswax.
Honey
$7-$35 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
N/A
YES
u b H
Cape may market 120 Park Boulevard, West Cape May (609) 884-3200
The Cape May Market is already a favorite, with a great selection of organic necessities, and an emphasis on “fresh” and “local.” Try their smoothies!
Health Food Store
Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
N/A
YES
u b
Cape May olive oil co. 324 Carpenter’s Lane Cape May 800-584-1887
This spot features 20 different varieties of olive oils and balsamic vinegars, pastas, spreads, jams, mustards, infused salts and sugars, and much more.
Olive Oils and more
$3-$60 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
N/A
NO
b H
Cape May Winery 711 Townbank Road, North Cape May (609) 884-1169, capemaywinery.com
Open daily from 12-5pm (7pm Fri and Sat.) Make a reservation to tour the winery on Saturdays and Sunday at 3pm. Look for their new wine releases!
Winery
$5-$27 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
WINERY
N/A
NO
u b H U
Cape Orient 315 Ocean Street, Cape May (609) 898-0088 www.capeorient.com
Great food every time, whether you are looking for Chinese, Thai or sushi. The service is superb, too.
L, D
$12-$19 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
Cappelletti’s pizza 1432 Texas Avenue Cape May (609) 898-8885
We didn’t name them the best breakfast sandwich in town for nothing! Their pizza is made fresh throughout the day and the menu is stocked with cheese steaks, hoagies, salads, and strombolis.
B, L, D
$3-$20 Cards: V, MC, D
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H
Carney’s Beach and Jackson, Cape May (609) 884-4424, carneyscapemaynj.com
Live music on the weekends, great early bird and happy hour specials, and casual fare that’s reliable... all across the street from the beach. Open seven days a week.
L, D
$12-$28 Cards: V, MC
BAR
NO
YES
b H
THE Carriage House 1048 Washington Street At the Emlen Physick Estate (609) 884-5111
The Carriage House offers everything from hearty wraps, salads, quiche and paninis to classic teas. Best of all is the location — the gorgeous Emlen Physick Estate.
L
$12-$19 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
Cione Italian Gelato 315 Ocean street & by the Little Arcade on the Promenade, (267) 496-7788 • gelatocione@gmail.com
You’ll feel like you’re strolling across the Piazza del Duomo when you try the gelato of Milan-based lawyer Fabio Cione and his sister Monica... says Craig LaBan of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Gelato
$3-$5 Cards: Please call
N/A
NO
YES
SYMBOLS KEY
u Onsite parking
Handicap accessible exit zero
H
Takeout available
29 August 2013
u b u b H U
U Dog-friendly patio
exit zero
30 August 2013
The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe
Meals served
Price range of entrées
Bar or BYOB?
Should I book?
Food for kids?
Other details
Cocktail Tour
Please call for more info
N/A
YES
NO
B, L Coffee
$3-$10 Cash Only
BYOB
NO
YES
b H
$7-$14 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H U
cocktails at the cape (609) 898-7390 cocktailsatthecape.com
Cocktails at the Cape provides customized dining tours, pub crawls, and signature cocktail sampling tours, to take out all the guesswork!
coffee tyme 315 Beach Avenue Cape May (609) 898-9433
Starting early at 6:30am, treat yourself to your regular coffee or one of the special flavors offered every day. While you’re at it, indulge in a freshly baked pastry. And visit the Exit Zero Store next door!
Cold Spring Grange 735 Seashore Road Cold Spring (609) 884-0114
Rely on the restaurant at Historic Cold Spring Village for new homemade cuisine prepared with local produce and seafood.
B, L
corinthian yacht club 1819 Delaware Avenue (609) 884-8000 www.cyccm.com
For a truly unforgettable wedding experience — or any big event, for that matter, check out the Corinthian Yacht Club. Harbor view plus excellent cuisine equals obvious choice.
Special Event Venue
Please call for more info
N/A
YES
N/A
u b
cove restaurant 405 S. Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-5159 www.capemaycove.com
One of the few restaurants in Cape May that is located physically on the beach. Enjoy your meal outside with a direct view of the ocean and lighthouse.
B, L
$6-$16
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H U
crab house & Two Mile Landing Two Mile Landing, Ocean Dr. Wildwood Crest (609) 522-1341, thecrabhouse.com
Owned by a commercial fishing family, the Crab House serves only the freshest of seafood. The waterfront views and live entertainment are just really great bonuses.
L, D
$6-$32 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H
Cucina Rosa 301 Washington Street Mall (609) 898-9800 www.cucinarosa.com
Nicely located at the beginning of the mall, on the Congress Hall side, this Italian restaurant is a must-visit. Simply superb food in classy-but-casual surroundings.
D
$12-$29 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
C-View inn Texas & Washington Avenues Cape May (609) 884-4712
A locals’ favorite, this is the oldest and friendliest tavern in town with great wings, excellent pub fare and cold beer. And these days they accept credit cards, too!
L, D
$4-$18 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
NO
YES
u H
dairy queen 320 Washington Street, Cape May (609) 884-0421 www.dairyqueen.com
Just like the Dairy Queen you have at home but it’s even better at the beach! Treat yourself to a deliciously gooey blizzard or a burger and fries.
L, D ice cream
$2-$10
BYOB
NO
YES
b H
depot market cafÉ 409 Elmira Street Cape May (609) 884-8030
Owners Chris and Lisa Shriver are keeping the old favorites at this much-loved café AND adding new specials. Cape May’s movers and shakers often eat lunch here.
B, L, D
$6-$14 Cash Only
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H
dry dock 1440 Texas Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-3434 www. capemaydrydock.com
With something for the whole family to enjoy, Dry Dock is a favorite among the youngsters because their meal is served on a Frisbee!
L, D ice cream
$3-$22 V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H U
The Ebbitt Room 25 Jackson Street, (609) 884-5700 www. virginiahotel.com
Enjoy your meal on the Ebbitt Room porch, overlooking tree-lined Jackson Street, or enjoy the simple beauty of this dining room, which is one of the finest in South Jersey.
D
$26-$33 V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
NO
u
elaine’s dinner theater 513 Lafayette Street, Cape May (609) 884-1199 www.elainescapemay.com
It’s been voted one of the top five dinner theaters in the country by the Food Network... with shows at 7:30pm find out why.
B, L, D
$44.95 for dinner and a show
FULL BAR
YES
YES
u b H
ellie’s bakery 301 North Broadway, West Cape May (609) 884-4007
A from-scratch, small-batch bakery that uses only real and fresh ingredients in all their decadent baked goods, Ellie’s is a sweet tooth’s best friend.
Bakery
$1-$30 Cards: V, MC
N/A
NO
YES
u H
emilia’s garden cafÉ 479 W. Perry Street West Cape May
It’s new this season, and the buzz has been big. And why wouldn’t it be? The food and coffee are as lovely as the atmosphere. Look out for their arts and crafts workshops.
B, L, D
$12-$24 Cash Only
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H U
SYMBOLS KEY
u Onsite parking
Handicap accessible exit zero
H
Takeout available
31 August 2013
U Dog-friendly patio
Great food, great drinks and great music...
...are always guaranteed.
106 Decatur Street @ Columbia Avenue Cape May (609) 884-8363 www.merioninn.com
exit zero
Cape May cocktails: The a to z guide... Pt 3 } rusty nail
The bartender: Katie Repici. The signature cocktail: Rusty Nail Redux. The ingredients: Aged Scotch, Drambuie, local honey drizzle, splash of fresh cream. How long you’ve worked here: Four years. Your own drink of choice: Margarita, on the rocks. Worst thing a customer can do at a bar: Someone will come up to the bar and order a Miller Lite. I’ll bring it to them, and they’ll say, “Oh, I need one more.” I’ll bring that, and they’ll say, “Oh, one more thing!” Why not just order everything at once? Best pickup line you’ve heard: “You owe me a drink, because when I saw you, I dropped mine.” And the worst pickup line: “I’m not drunk; I’m intoxicated by you.” Best thing about Cape May: I love the Victorian architecture. One thing you’d change about Cape May: It would be nice if there was just a little bit more diversity. Ever served a celebrity? One of the singers from ZZ Top, and professional snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler. Best tip you’ve ever received: $100. What’s your dream job: I’d like Anthony Bourdain’s job.
32 August 2013
The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe
Meals served
Price range of entrées
Bar or BYOB?
Should I book?
Food for kids?
Other details
fish and fancy 2406 Bayshore Road, Villas (609) 886-8760 www.fishandfancy.com
Expect superb seafood however you like it — fried, broiled, grilled, blackened or sautéed — and great salads, too. Eat in (there’s an outdoor patio) or take away.
L, D
$5-$19 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
5 West Pub 3729 Bayshore Road, North Cape May (609) 889-7000, 5westpub.com
This sure-to-be hotspot is a gastropub coming to you from the owners of Tisha’s. Expect the same high-quality food and high-quality service, in an at-the-beach atmosphere.
L, D
$6-$20 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H U
410 Bank Street 410 Bank Street, Cape May (609) 884-2127 www.410bankstreet.com
After more than 25 years, 410 still one of Cape May’s finest restaurants, serving food that’s as brilliant and inventive as ever.
D
$25-$37 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
u
freda’s cafe 210 Ocean Street, Cape May (609) 884-7887 www.410bankstreet.com
Chef Steve Howard and his wife, pastry chef Carol, have combined big-city quality with small-town atmostphere. Freda’s is a cozy cafe with superb food. A perennial favorite is the rack of lamb.
L, D
$21-$32 Cards: V, MC
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
frescos 412 Bank Street (609) 884-0366 www.frescoscapemay.com
From the same owners of 410 Bank Street, this restaurant wins awards for its Italian food every year for a reason. This is authentic cuisine served in a beautiful location.
D
$18-$29 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
u H
Gecko’S Carpenter’s Square Mall Cape May (609) 898-7750
On a balmy summer night, there’s nothing quite like Gecko’s in Cape May. Serving superb southwestern food, including great vegeterian options, on a tropicalvibed patio.
L, D
$8-$24 Cards: V, MC
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
george’s place Beach Avenue and Perry Street Cape May (609) 884-6088
Whether it’s the Nutella waffles for breakfast or a healthier Mediterranean dish for dinner, it’s impossible to go wrong with George’s. Consistently good every time.
B, L, D
$8-$13 Cash Only
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
GODMOTHER’S Broadway & Sunset (609) 884-4543 www.godmothersrestaurant.com
Excellent downhome Italian food, just like your mama, or your grandma, or your great aunt Roberta would make. Reasonably priced and great for a family dinner.
D
$12-$28 Cards: V, MC
BYOB
YES
YES
u H
GOod earth 600 Park Boulevard West Cape May (609) 898-6161
All organic, homemade vegan and vegetarian and fresh fish fare, sandwiches, salads and great freshsqueezed juices. They have lots of free parking too.
L, D
$6-$22 Cash Only
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
green street market 3167 Route 9 South, Rio Grande (609) 463-0606 www.greenstreetmarket.com
It’s a family-owned and operated organic market, committed to providing healthy and fair trade cerftified foods and products. Check out their rewards program.
Health Food Store
Varies Cards: V, MC, D
N/A
N/A
YES
ub
harbor view 954 Ocean Drive (609) 884-5444 www.harborviewcapemay.com
A locals’ favorite for a reason. There’s a Key West vibe, good food, regular entertainment, and the views are spectacular. Spend the day — or night. Enjoy sushi on their beautiful deck.
B, L, D
$6-$30 Cards: V, MC
BAR
NO
YES
ub H
HARPooN HENRY’S Beach Drive and Browning (609) 886-5529 www.harpoonhenrys.net
It’s become famous for its sunsets. Sip on a cold beer or a funky iced cocktail, listen to fun live music, and watch a beautiful day slip away.
L, D
$10-$21 Cards: V, MC, D
BAR
NO
YES
u b H
harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille Madison & Beach Avenue (609) 884-2779 www.harryscapemay.com
The Hirsch family relaunched their restaurant at the Montreal Inn. It successfully mixes a friendly, family feel with a stylish oceanfront vibe. And there is indoor AND outdoor bars.
B, L, D
$8-$24 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b HU
hawk haven vineyard 600 S. Railroad Ave., Rio Grande (609) 846-7347 www.hawkhavenvineyard.com
Open year round. Tasting room open daily 11am to 6pm. Wine tasting and sales, wine by the glass and bottle, gourmet cheese plates to enjoy on premise.
L, Winery
$6-$32 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
Winery
NO
NO
u H U
hemingway’s 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-5611 www.hemingwayscapemay.com
Casual and family-friendly, Hemingway’s offers great seafood, prime beef and nightly specials. Enjoy their happy hours daily from 4-7pm and weekend DJs.
B, L, D
$15-$38 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H
SYMBOLS KEY
u Onsite parking
Handicap accessible exit zero
H
Takeout available
33 August 2013
U Dog-friendly patio
EXPANDED DINNER MENU! Check it out bellavidacafe.com
Breakfast 7:30 - 2:30 Lunch 11:30 - 2:30 (Friday & Saturday til 3pm) Dinner from 5 (No Dinner on Wednesday)
exit zero
34 August 2013
Taste one of our exclusive Cape May home made flavors like Vanilla Caramel, Peanut Butter Softee or Greek Strawberry Cheesecake. Or Try our new Belgian Waffle Sundae! Greek Strawberry Cheesecake
Belgian Waffle Sundae
Peanut Butter Softee Vanilla Caramel
With our new Mash-Up equipment, you can make your own flavor creation from our 30 flavors of ice cream and yogurt mixed with our 25 plus topping choices
T U R I S
Turdo Vineyards & Winery 3911 Bayshore Rd., North Cape May, NJ 08204 609-884-5591 - www.turdovineyards.com Open Daily Memorial Day - Labor Day Off Season - Call for Hours
* Wine Tasting - Retail Shop - Private Parties & Tastings Available
Nero D’Avola Sangiovese Barbera Dolcetto Nebbiolo Pinot Noir Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Malbec Persara Rubino Sauvignon Blanc Pinot Grigio Rosato Moscato exit zero
35 August 2013
Cape May cocktails: The a to z guide... Pt 3
LITTLE ITALY II RISTORANTE
} seasalt
Home-cooked food that will satisfy you, your family, AND your wallet.
PIZZA • VONGOLE ALLA CASINO • PENNE ALLA GIOVANNI SHRIMP FRA DIAVOLO • FLOUNDER MEDITERRANEAN VEAL ALLA VINCENZO • CHICKEN SALTIMBOCCA ALLA ROMANA
3704 Bayshore Road, North Cape May (Cape Plaza Shopping Center) • 889-6610
The ONLY place for Southwestern cuisine. At the heart of the Historic District.
Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner!
The bartender: Bobby Ransom. The signature cocktail: Ocean Club cocktail. The ingredients: Veev Acai berry liquor, muddled cucumber and basil, half lime juice/half club, shaken, served in a white wine glass. How long you’ve worked here: It’s my first summer here. Your own drink of choice: Ketel One on the rocks, with lime. Worst thing a customer can do when ordering: When they wave you down in a hurry only to freeze up when you take their order. Best pickup line you’ve heard: “If I could rearrange the alphabet I’d put U and I next to each other.” And the worst pickup line: “See this sweater, girl? That’s boyfriend material.” Favorite thing about Cape May: The beautiful sunrises and sunsets, no matter the season. One thing you’d change about Cape May: The parking meters and permit parking. Favorite beach in Cape May: Madison Avenue. Biggest tip: $100. Dream job: Bartending on Isla Mujeres [Island of Women].
carpenter’s square mall cape may • (609) 898-7750
exit zero
36 August 2013
The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe
Meals served
Price range of entrées
Bar or BYOB?
Should I book?
Food for kids?
Other details
L, D
$1-$4 Cash Only
N/A
NO
YES
bH
D
$13-$26 Cash Only
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
L, D
$5-$16
BYOB
NO
YES
u b HU
hotdog Tommy’S Jackson Street @ Beach (609) 884-8388 www.hotdogtommys.com
If there are better dogs at the Shore, we’ve yet to hear. Tommy and Mary Snyder are hot dog jedi warriors. Their menu is creative and as healthy as hot dogs get.
Island Grill 311 Mansion Street Cape May (609) 884-0200
The interior design and menu concoctions are similar — Caribbean-influenced and very, very colorful. The sauces and combinations are creative and delectable.
key west tacos 479 W. Perry Street, West Cape May (609) 898-8226 www.keywesttacos.com
Key West Tacos offers burritos, tacos, and quesadillas made with only the freshest ingredients. One step in the door and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Florida Keys with their casual island vibe.
la verandah 107-113 Grant Street, Cape May (609) 884-5868 www.hotelalcott.com
The ambience at this restaurant in the Hotel Alcott may be High Victorian, but the fare is delicious, contemporary American. An excellent three-star restaurant with an attentive staff.
D
$19-$32 Cards: V, MC, AE
BYOB
YES
YES
b
the lobster house Fisherman’s Wharf, (609) 884-8296 www.thelobsterhouse.com
Take-out, fish market, restaurant, raw bar, breakfast, dinner... The Lobster House has it all. Drinks on the Schooner American, watching the boats before dinner, is a lovely experience.
B, L, D
$5-$48 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
NO
YES
u b HU
louisa’s chocolate bar 108 Jackson Street Cape May (609) 884-5519
Have a sweet tooth? This is the place for you. The chocolate is of the highest quality... in both familiar and adventurous flavors. Plus chcocolate is good for your soul!
Chocolates
$2 - ? Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
NO
YES
H
lucky bones 1200 Route 109, Cape May (609) 884-BONE www.luckybonesgrill.com
A huge hit and locals’ favorite for a reason. Excellent food, great bar vibe, superb service. Lucky Bones gets it right every single time.
L, D
$6-$22 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
For tables of eight or more
YES
u b H
mad batter 19 Jackson Street (609) 884-5970 www.madbatter.com
It’s the original fine dining restaurant in Cape May and still one of the best. The food is always creative and the breakfasts and brunches, hard to beat — hence the lines.
B, L, D
$19-$30 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
b H
magicbrain cafe 31 Perry Street, Cape May Carpenter’s Square Mall (609) 884-8188
Enjoy high-speed internet, or unplug altogether with delicious, organic specialty drinks, and high-quality coffee from gourmet roaster, Green Mountain.
B, Cafe
$3-$7 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
N/A
YES
b H
magnolia Room 301 Howard Street, Cape May (609) 884-8409 www.chalfonte.com
Warm, southern-style hospitality paired with excellent southern-style cuisine is what you can expect at the Chalftonte’s acclaimed dining room. And stop by for cocktails at the King Edward Bar.
B, D
$10-$34 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
b
maRIE NICOLE’S 9510 Pacific, Wildwood Crest Diamond Beach (609) 522-5425, marienicoles.com
This award-winning restaurant serves modern American cuisine in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Savor summer nights on the terrace with a handcrafted cocktail.
D
$19-$44 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
NO
u b
marq’s pub 501 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-3500 www.marquiscapemay.com
A hidden gem for those looking for a delicious family meal on a budget. No need to worry about picky eaters, there’s plenty of options with Marq’s large family style buffets.
B, L, D
$4-$22 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
b H
martini beach 429 Beach Avenue Cape May (609) 884-1925
A lively nightspot with a friendly vibe, great Mediterranean dishes, and a panoramic ocean view. It’s also the place that brought tapas to Cape May — the food is even better shared.
L, D
$15-$30 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
mcdonald’s Bayshore Road and Sandman Blvd. North Cape May (609) 884-1925, www.mcdonalds.com
Even in a gracious town like Cape May, with so many fine restaurants, sometimes you just need a fast food fix. And this McDonald’s is one of the cleanest and best-run you are likely to experience.
B, L, D
$3-$7 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
NO
YES
u b H
mcglade’s on the pier 722 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-2614 www.mcglades.com
Praise for McGlades can be found in the New York Times, Variety magazine and others. Enjoy freshly caught, local seafood with a direct view of the ocean. You WILL see dolphins.
B, L, D
$8-$25 Cards: none, ATM
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
SYMBOLS KEY
u Onsite parking
Handicap accessible exit zero
H
Takeout available
37 August 2013
U Dog-friendly patio
The Reeds is the perfect new resort destination for a summer vacation, long weekend getaway or overnight escape LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS starting at just $329*
To reserve your summer stay: 609.368.0100 or reedsatshelterhaven.com *based on availability, terms and conditions apply, please call for more details.
37 distinctively designed guest rooms and suites naturally enhanced with fresh seaside breezes and breathtaking sunsets. Designed to exceed the comforts of home, all accommodations are rich in appointments, elegance and coastal design.
STONE HARBOR’S ALL-NEW LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL
C E L E B R AT E YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS AT THE REEDS
From intimate birthday and anniversary celebrations to weddings, reunions and social gatherings, The Reeds’ indoor and outdoor private event spaces are the perfect fit.
SWEET GRASS BALLROOM open-concept venue for weddings, meetings and special events
SKYE SUITE intimate cocktail receptions and chef-prepared private dinners
ROOF GARDEN
a fun & informal outdoor celebration space overlooking the bay For more information, call 609.368.0100 ext. 2000 or jyeager@reedsresort.com
9601 Third Ave., Stone Harbor, NJ
Cape May cocktails: The a to z guide... Pt 3 } ugly mug
— NOW OPEN —
7 days a week from 3pm! 21 beers and 12 wines on tap!
happy hour 3-6pm Early Diner $25 menu available if seated before 6 Steaks • Seafood • Raw Bar • Sandwiches Pub Grub • Children’s Menu
LIVE MUSIC 7 DAYS! Open from 11:30am
“CRABBY HOUR” 2-5pm At The Bar.
$5 Appetizer Menu • $1 Off All Drinks
$3 Coors Light Drafts All Day Every Day!
Fish Dock Road, Wildwood Crest NJ (at the base of the Wildwood Crest Bridge)
609.522.1341 • twomilecrabhouse.com exit zero
The bartender: Roy Abrams. The signature cocktail: Creamsicle Martini. The ingredients: Vanilla and Orange vodka, grenadine, pineapple juice, topped with whipped cream. How long you’ve worked here: Four years. Your own drink of choice: Modelo beer. Worst thing a customer can do when ordering: Raise their hand or shake money at you. Best pickup line you’ve heard: “I’m at a loss for words, you start.” And the worst pickup line: “I bought you a drink, now you have to talk to me.” Favorite thing about Cape May: Wintertime. One thing you’d change about Cape May: Abolish parking meters. Favorite beach in Cape May: Steger’s. Ever served a celebrity? Uncle Bob. Biggest tip: $75. Dream job: Liquor sales rep in South Jersey.
40 August 2013
The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe
Meals served
Price range of entrées
Bar or BYOB?
Should I book?
Food for kids?
Other details
D
$18/Mrkt Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
ub HU
Spirits
$5-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
Liquor Store
NO
NO
u b H
L,D
$7-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
NO
YES
B, L, D
$9-$30 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H
B, L, D
$4-$10 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
NO
YES
u b H U
merion inn 106 Decatur Street, (609) 884-8363 www.merion inn.com
The dim, amber lighting, dark wooden bar, period fittings and classy staff give this place a special ambience. Great food, great cocktails, and great music.
Montreal Liquor Store Beach Ave and Madison Cape May (609) 884-6114
Grab a bottle of your favorite vino on your way to a BYOB, or stock up on beer and spirits for your next party.
north end american grill 206 Olde New Jersey Avenue North Wildwood, (609) 435-5691 northendamericangrill.com
A premier destination for food and fun in North Wildwood. Casual family dining offering upscale barfood and American cuisine. Experience a laidback California vibe at the shore.
ocean view Beach & Grant Avenues (609) 884-3772 www.oceanviewrestaurant.com
At this oceanfront staple, expect a large menu, full of classic diner food that’s reasonably priced. Locals frequent it, and you know that is always a good sign.
on the rockS Cape May – Lewes Ferry, 1200 Lincoln Boulevard, North Cape May, 1-800-64FERRY
Casual waterfront dining watching the ferry and other vessels transit the Cape May Canal to and from the Delaware Bay. There is a very cool vibe at the outdoor bar.
original fudge kitchen Washington Street Mall and on the Promenade, Cape May 800-23-FUDGE • fudgekitchens.com
It’s family-owned and operated, and you can tell. The service AND the fudge are exceptional. And their saltwater taffy? It’s the perfect seashore treat.
Chocolates and candy
$3-$15 V, MC, AE, D
NA
NO
YES
b H
oyster bay 615 Lafayette Street (609) 884-2111 www.oysterbayrestaurantnj.com
A lovely dining room, a beautiful new bar, a new bar menu, great martinis and classic, generous dishes. Check out their happy hour daily from 4-6:30pm.
D
$12-$29 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H
panico’s 422 Broadway, West Cape May (609) 884-7170
Panico’s offers a wide selection of pastas and brick oven pizzas that can be ordered individually or family style. Known for their large portions.
D
$9-$28 Cards: V, MC, D
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
pano 421 Washington Street Mall Cape May (609) 849-9462
George’s sister café offers mouthwatering salads with the freshest local ingredients. Enjoy your meal while sitting in one of their big comfy couches.
L, D
$5-$10 Cash Only
BYOB
YES
YES
b H
peter shields 1301 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-9090 www.petershieldsinn.com
The Georgian Revival mansion on Cape May’s beachfront is magnificent, and the creative modern American menu matches it all the way. This is one classy eating experience.
D
$22-$39 Cards: V, MC, D
BYOB
NO
NO
H
pier house 1327 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 898-0300 www.thepierhousecapemay.com
Savor your cocktail or Mediterranean inspired meal (or both!) in the sophisticated yet comfortable beach front setting.
B, L, D
$20-$36 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H
THE PILOT HOUSE 142 Decatur Street (609) 884-3449 www.pilothousecapemay.com
A classic pub and restaurant offering great burgers, excellent comfort good and an authentic ambience. The burgers are big favorites among locals.
L, D
$5-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
H
the red store 500 Cape Avenue, Cape May Point (609) 884-5757
Awesome food in a secluded, serene setting. Join them for a scrumptious breakfast, grab a coffee and muffin, or relax on the porch with a delicious lunch.
B, L
$5-$35 Cash only
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H
rio station 3505 Route 9 South Rio Grande (609) 889-2000
While all around it has changed, the Rio Station is still serving excellent food with old-style, friendly service. Their chicken wings are particularly good.
L, D
$13-$29 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H
Rusty Nail 205 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-0017 www.beachshack.com
Coldest beer and coolest vibe in town. The iconic Rusty Nail is the place to be for a uniquely Cape May experience. And they even have non-alcoholic brew for dogs!
B, L, D
$10-$19 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
NO
YES
u b H U
SYMBOLS KEY
u Onsite parking
Handicap accessible exit zero
H
Takeout available
41 August 2013
ub H
U Dog-friendly patio
From the makers of Tisha’s An exciting new eatery
Cape May cocktails: The a to z guide... Pt 3 } washington inN
combining a classic pub with a fine restaurant Result? A great time. Every time.
Great food and awesome cocktails...
...in a cool casual pub atmosphere
Tom Snyder photographed in The Brown at Congress Hall 37 2 9 Room ba ysh ore r o ad, n o rt h ca p e may on May 16. ( 6Photo 0 9 ) by 8 8Frank 9 - 7 0Weiss 0 0 | 5 w e st p u b . c o m
exit zero
The bartender: TJ Belasco. Signature cocktail: Washington Inn Beach Plum Martini. The ingredients: Vodka, Beach Plum Puree (maturated beach plums (locally grown), brandy, sugar and a secret ingredient), garnished with a sprig of fresh mint (both tart and sweet). How long you’ve worked here: Fifteen years. Your own drink of choice: Cape May Brewery IPA. Worst thing a customer can do at the bar: Customers in a large party ordering one drink at a time. Best pickup line you’ve heard: “My Viagra just kicked in.” Worst pickup line you’ve heard: “My friend says you’re overweight, but I think you’re hot.” Best thing about Cape May: Wherever you go, you know someone. One thing you would change about it: Put in more bike lanes. Ever served a celebrity? Steve-o the guy from Jackass. Best tip you’ve ever received: $250. Favorite beach in Cape May: The Cove. Dream job: A writer like Hemingway, exploring the world.
42 August 2013
The Ultimate Cape May Food & Drink Chart What you need to know about the food and the vibe
Meals served
Price range of entrées
Bar or BYOB?
Should I book?
Food for kids?
Other details
B, L, D
$8-$20 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H
L, D
$4-$12 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
N/A
YES
u b H
B, Cafe
$1-$7 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
NO
NO
YES
H U
Seasalt restaurant 1035 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-7000 capemayoceanclubhotel.com
Black wood and granite tables, mother-of-pearl barfront, river rock decor... the vibe is as cool as the food is delicious. Reserve the chef’s intimate private table for up to 14.
Seaside Cheese Company 110 Park Boulevard (609) 884-8700 seasidecheesecapemay.com
A huge plus for the area when it opened, and this place, a short walk from downtown Cape May, continues to delight with gourmet treats. Private tasting room is available to reserve.
Star coffee shop 29 Perry Street, Cape May 800-297-3779 www.thestarinn.net
It’s important to get your coffee from people who understand how important quality coffee is. The Star is that place...
Sunset Liquors 106 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May (609) 435-5052
A new liquor store has hit town, conveniently located on Sunset Boulevard. Spirits, wines, beers, ice and snacks — and some of the coolest light fittings you ever saw.
Liquor Store
Please call for info
N/A
N/A
NO
u b H
Tisha’s 322 Washington Street Mall Cape May (609) 884-9119
In case you’re wondering why they’re not at Convention Hall — they moved to the mall, where they are still serving up irresistible concoctions, PLUS breakfast and lunch!
B, L, D
$18-$35 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
b U
TOMMY’S FOLLY COFFEE 251 Beach Avenue, Cape May (609) 884-6522 www.congresshall.com
Situated in the lobby of Congress Hall, this shop has great coffee and some lovely to-go breakfast goodies, as well as healthy and tasty lunch wraps, plus soups, shakes and more.
B, Café
$1-$7 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
NO
NO
YES
u b H U
Turdo vineyards & winery 3911 Bayshore Road, N. Cape May (609) 884-5591 www.turdovineyards.com
Turdo is a family-run, award-winning vineyard and winery, and the only one in New Jersey that is run on 100% solar energy. See what all the buzz is about.
Winery
$15-$31 Cards: V, MC, AE
N/A
NO
NO
u b
The Ugly Mug 426 Washington Street Mall Cape May (609) 884-3459
A Cape May legend, and even better now that they’ve put those wonderful booths in there. Such a treat. It has a classic pub vibe, and always a warm, friendly atmosphere.
L, D
$12-$25 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
NO
YES
b H
Ukai 1500 Route 47 South, Rio Grande (609) 770-7773 www.sushiukai.com
Enjoy delicious, fresh and nutritious, authentic Chinese, Japanese, Malaysian and Thai cuisine — all homemade!
L, D
$2-$37 Cards: V, MC, AE
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
Uncle Bill’s Pancakes Beach Avenue & Perry Street Cape May (609) 884-7199
Reliably excellent food; there is a reason why people wait a while to eat here... Excellent breakfasts and brunches at this circular restaurant overlooking the Atlantic.
B, L
$4-$9 Cash Only
BYOB
NO
YES
u b H
union park Beach Avenue & Howard (609) 884-8811 www.unionparkdiningroom.com
Exquisite dining in a classic old hotel, where both the decor and the food are inspired. Voted one of the best restaurants in the state by New Jersey Monthly magazine.
D
$18-$35 Cards: V, MC, AE
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
vincenzo’s little italy ii 3704 Bayshore Road North Cape May (609) 889-6610
If you want to bring the family for a fine and fun Italian meal, look no further than here! The kids will love it. Excellent pasta dishes, and they’ve recently expanded their pizzeria!
L, D
$8-$20 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BYOB
YES
YES
u b H
WASHINGTON INN 801 Washington Street, Cape May (609) 884-5697 www.washingtoninn.com
Superb gourmet food, and a cool but cozy bar. Check out an amazing wine list of over 10,000 bottles; they’ve got the largest wine cellar in South Jersey.
D
$18-$34 Cards: V, MC, AE, D
BAR
YES
YES
u b H
willow creek winery 168 Stevens St., West Cape May (609) 770-8782 willowcreekwinerycapemay.com
Willow Creek is the newest and largest winery in Cape May. Check out the stunning villa, set on this idyllic 50-acre vineyard.
Winery
$6 and up Cards: V, MC, AE, D
N/A
N/A
NO
u b
zoe’s 715 Beach Avenue Cape May (609) 884-1233
Zoe’s has large portions at affordable prices. Plus one of the best vegetarian selections in town. And they have a great patio if the weather is nice... bring Fido!
B, L
$4-$12 Cash Only
BYOB
NO
YES
b HU
SYMBOLS KEY
u Onsite parking
Handicap accessible exit zero
H
Takeout available
43 August 2013
U Dog-friendly patio
a cape may moment
Rachel Nolan, Hello Gorgeous, Lauren Gregory, Sarah Hood, Teresa Workman, Kiesha Bond at Cape May Winery. Aleksey Moryakov
Thanks to You!
Uncle Bill’s
for a successful first year.
& FAMILY RESTAURANT Open every day!
Outdoor seating! Open Daily • Phone 609-435-5052 Beer • Wine • Spirits Ice • Snacks • Free Parking
exit zero
BEACH AVENUE & PERRY STREET, CAPE MAY (609) 884-7199
44 August 2013
A Cape May tradition for over 30 years!
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Cocktails Live Music • Happy Hour Daily 3-6 PM
19 Jackson Street, Cape May (609) 884-5970 • madbatter.com
The trouble with eating Italian food
...is that five or six days later you’re hungry again. — George Miller
Cucina Rosa
898-9800 | 301 Washington Street Mall & Perry Street www.cucinarosa.com
exit zero
45 August 2013
Bob Moffatt knew he wanted to be a vet, but it took a bit of wandering and soul-searching before he found his way
Confessions of a interview by diane stopyra Photography by Frank Weiss exit zero
46 August 2013
small-town vet exit zero
47 August 2013
Did you always want to be a veterinarian? Yes, my whole life, but it didn’t happen right away. Why not? I grew up one of five kids in Germantown, Pennsylvania where my father was a carpenter and my mother was a housewife. They didn’t know how to direct me when I said I wanted to be a vet, so my grandfather advised me to write to Hugh Scott, a Pennsylvania senator, for guidance. He wrote back, and when I saw what it would entail, I thought, “I can’t do that.” And I really couldn’t have then. I was not going to be able to get through organic chemistry and physics. It was the late 60s, and there was a lot going on. In what way? In every way. Were you a hippie? Yes. So what did you do? I graduated from La Salle College in Philadelphia with a degree in English. I tried teaching junior high, and that was a disaster; I had no discipline. So then I bummed around. I lived in Boston for a while, before coming back to Philly to write for a weekly publication that was affiliated with Philadelphia magazine. That
Above: Dr Bob Moffatt at home in Cape May Point with his adorable companion, Mamie. Opposite page: The kitchen is his favorite place in the house.
folded two weeks after I got there. So then what? Then I started working in restaurants in Center City and was enjoying that very much. One evening when I was 24, I went out with my best friend and we had a good time. I was in the passenger seat of the car on the way home when the MG Midget we were in missed a curve and wrapped around a tree. I spent the next three months in traction in a Bucks County hospital. That made me stop and think about things. I said to myself, “I’m going back to school.” I worked full-time bartending while I started from the beginning, one class at a time. It was four years to get into vet school, and then another four years once I got into vet school at University of Pennsylvania. How did you pay for all that? When I was accepted to vet school, I found out that I couldn’t get low interest student loans because I had squirreled away too much money bartending. However, I could get a exit zero
48 August 2013
low interest loan if I owned real estate, so I bought a place in South Philly for $10,000. I had roommates who were students, and they helped pay electric, gas, and utilities. Was organic chemistry as hard as you though it would be? Everything was as hard as I thought it would be. And you had to do more than just get through; you had to excel. Was your family supportive? Yes. They laughed and said, “You’ll never do it.” Um…? They were supportive enough. So where did you start practicing? My first job was in Center City, Philadelphia. After a year, I moved on to Blue Bell, Pennsylvania where I worked at a large practice for 13 years. Then I had to decide whether I would buy house in suburban Philadelphia and rent in Cape May Point, or buy a house in Cape May Point and rent in Philadelphia. I bought a house down here. I sold my house In Philly to make the downpayment. How had you discovered Cape May Point? I fell in love with it the first time I came in the early 70s. In the winter of ’77, I shared a place here with friend, and I always had this feeling I would live here some day.
exit zero
49 August 2013
How did you come to open a practice here? I had found a little Pomeranian in need of a home that I placed with a neighbor down here. That dog got sick and needed some drugs, so I contacted Dr Bob Panaccio, introduced myself, and asked for what I needed. I went to his clinic, which was an outpatient clinic in North Cape May, and he said, “Did you ever think about moving down here?” Then it just happened. We opened our practice in 2000. Any moments of doubt? No doubts. When I made the decision to leave Blue Bell, I came across a quote by Henry Ford that read: “It’s better to go into business with a stranger and become friends than to go into business with a friend.” How are the clientele different here than where you’ve worked previously? When you’re working in a high-powered affluent suburb, everyone wants to be seen at 7:30 in morning or 8:30 at night because they have these mammoth days at the office. So when we started down here and I’d say to someone, “Appointments start at 9:30 but I’ll gladly come in to see you earlier,” they’re
like, “I’m not even dressed by 10!” That’s a total shift. People are less demanding. Tell us a wacky animal story. There was a dog that ate a remote control. Its owners took it to one of those big emergency centers, where it had expensive surgery. They picked it up after a few days in the hospital, where the doctors were kind enough to give them their remote back in a little baggy. They went home, threw it on the counter, and the dog immediately re-ate it, baggie and all. The owners said, “That’s it, we’re not doing the surgery again,” but the dog was fine. It passed the remote in pieces. Then there was the time I had a neighbor down here who found this big pelican, totally out of its normal range on the beach. It walked it into my kitchen, where it lost its very smelly, very fishy lunch all over the place. Do people bring animals to your house often? It’s not uncommon. I once got a call from a receptionist I used to work with who asked me if I could help with a little Chihuahua someone had brought to her office. It had been through something horrible and had lost its eyes. I said I could try and she
said, “Good, because it’s on its way.” So I had a dear friend in her early 90s who had always wanted a dog, but wasn’t sure she could care for one. I brought the Chihuahua, Spunky, to her and asked if she wouldn’t mind watching while I went to buy it a Pack ’N Play. Then I made myself busy for a few hours and went back. My friend said, “You don’t think you’re getting her back, do you?” which is exactly what I’d hoped would happen. They were inseparable. How attached do you get to the animals you see? To some, very, very attached. It’s very difficult when you lose them. What’s been the greatest take-away from your time working with animals? At one point, I worked for a program that placed cats with the elderly as companions. One day, I had to drop off two kittens. The first I took to a woman in a South Philly row home. It wasn’t very clean — there were roaches in the cellar, and I felt bad leaving this cat there. The second place was a meticulous penthouse, inhabited by a woman who had everything perfectly ready for her new pet. Two weeks later, I had to
Seafood, Steaks & Cocktails Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily! See Our Full Menu Online at: pilothousecapemay.com
Cape May’s Happiest HAPPY HOUR! m. Sunday thru Friday, 4pm-6p ls Discounted drink specia and our Chef’s famous complimentary munchies!
Patio Dining Kids Menu
Join Us for OPEN MIC NIGHT! Every Friday Night ! The talent has been awesome
OPEN ALL DAY EVERY DAY • 884-3449 • WASHINGTON STREET MALL PILOTHOUSECAPEMAY.COM
exit zero
50 August 2013
exit zero
51 August 2013
return to each spot to see how things were going. I stopped by the row home first and, inside, the cat was purring and all over the lap of this woman. This cat was everything she had wanted, and it was a beautiful scene. When I arrived at the penthouse apartment, I discovered the cat was gone. It had scratched the piano, so its owner had it taken to the SPCA instead of calling us. By the time I got there to retrieve it, it had been euthanized. The lesson is that things aren’t always as they appear to be. Tell us about your dog Mamie. I’d just lost a dog, which left another dog, Patrick, home alone. I felt so sorry for him, so when Mamie came to the practice with this sad litter of puppies — she had ringworm and just everything wrong — I took her home. Until the day he died, Patrick hated her. His mission was to make her miserable, so it didn’t work out quite as planned. When you’re not working, how do you and Mamie spend your time? When we’re not walking or reading, we just enjoy being here. Cooking is my number one hobby, along with entertaining, because that’s part of cooking — sharing the effort. How did you became commissioner? About a year ago, my neighbors coerced me to do this. There are three commissioners in Cape May Point because of what’s called the Walsh Act, and we’re not allowed to talk to one another unless it’s in a public meeting. What does the job entail? It’s about trying to speak for everybody that lives here. It’s about being a voice and listening to what my neighbors have to say and representing what they are looking for. The idea is not to be some sort of boss. I am the Commissioner of Public Affairs and Public Safety, so I work with the volunteer fire department, the lifeguards, and the police department. But all of us — Anita vanHeeswyk is Commissioner of Revenue and Finance and Mayor Carl Schupp is Commissioner
A quiet moment in Dr Bob’s secret garden. Photograph by Susan Allen
of Public Works — work closely together, sharing opinions and ideas. What are you working on now? For years we’ve been trying to get the speed limit lowered on Cape and Lighthouse Avenues from 30 to 25 miles per hour. But they’re county roads and New Jersey Department of Transportation Standards are tying the hands of the county engineers because of certain studies they have to do. This makes zero sense to me; they look at the streets as pieces of paper and numbers of cars instead of realizing that these streets are full of bicycles and kids on skates and people walking to the beach pulling wagons and that, during the season, cars are secondary. The slower we drive, the better for all. You often hear the Point describe as a magical place. Do you feel that? I agree with that 100 percent, all of the time. Having so much water around us creates this unique light, and I think that contributes to it.
What makes you most proud to be a Cape May Point resident? My neighbors. It’s such a tight community. People watch out and care for each other. Of course, it’s not perfect. But in the end, people take care of one another. Give us a bit of Cape May Point trivia. After a good storm, especially after a winter storm, if you walk the beach from Sunset up to Cape, you might find a really nice arrowhead from the Lenni-Lenape tribe that used to inhabit this area. What’s your most beautiful memory of the Point? I packed a picnic dinner with some dear friends that we took to the Stites Avenue beach entrance, where everything was perfect — weather, breeze, food, wine. We had one of those spectacular sunsets, and it was really healing because there was so much going on in everyone’s lives at the time and we needed this special evening of laughing and talking. When we stood up to back off the dune, we turned around, and the moon had come up behind us. It was beautiful. It really was.
How to get your dog on the road... Dr Bob’s top three travel tips Dog not cool with the car? “Try dog-appeasing pheromones to keep them calm,” says Dr Bob. This isn’t a drug, it is a mixture of chemical factors meant to mimic the reassuring ones released by a puppy’s mom shortly after she gives birth. The best-bet brand: Adaptil. Dog still not cool with the car? “Try conditioning him or her,” says Dr Bob. Start them out in a running vehicle without going anywhere. Next time, drive just around the block. The time after that, go just a little bit further. “And never make a big deal of it.” Dog still not cool with the car? Maybe your pet is more suited for air-travel. “Usually, little dogs can be in the cabin with you, but big dogs have to go where the big dogs have to go,” says Dr Bob. “But now, there are companies that transport pets by air, and that’s all they do. The dogs are really well taken care of.” exit zero
52 August 2013
FISH & FANCY SEAFOOD TAKE-OUT Try Our Award Winning Crab Chowders!
“The Locals’ Favorite” FRESH WEEKLY SPECIALS FRESH HOMEMADE SALADS OUTDOOR PATIO SEATING PARTY TRAYS
Open Daily! 2406 Bayshore Road, Villas (next to Robinson & Son’s Produce)
(609) 886-8760 fishandfancy.com
10% Military Discount
exit zero
53 August 2013
DOG-FRIENDLY CAPE MAY... WHERE TO EAT AND STAY WITH YOUR PETS Restaurants Aleathea’s at the Inn of Cape May 7 Ocean Street Welcome: On the porch only. What We Love: Executive Chef Tai Menz will prepare your pup chicken or beef, usually with a little bit of rice, too. Avalon Coffee 7 Gurney Street Welcome: Inside or out. What We Love: They open at 6am, so beat the heat on your morning walk; then enjoy complementary biscuits and bowls of water. Bella Vida Café 406 North Broadway, West Cape May Welcome: Outside only. What We Love: Water bowls are provided by Bella Vida, where “it’s nice for dogs to be able to roam a bit,” says hostess Kim Stretch. (And nice for them to be able to order vegetarian, if they’re on a diet.) Cape May Winery 711 Townbank Road, North Cape May Welcome: Everywhere on the property. What We Love: No wine, but fresh water and biscuits are provided. “We probably see at least two dogs a day,” says wine associate Sue Frost. Dock Mike’s 110 North Broadway, West Cape May Welcome: On the deck, if they’re small, well-behaved, and on a leash. What We Love: Pancakes. And we’re guessing your dog does, too. Cione Italian Gelato 315 Ocean Street Welcome: Outside. What We Love: According to the Associated Press, gelato shops in Italy have started making a dogfriendly version of their sweet treat, so the presence of pooches at this hotspot only make your gelato experience all the more authentically Italian! Cold Spring Grange 735 Seashore Road Welcome: On the porch only. What We Love: A covered canopy will keep your best friend cool.
Harpoon Henry’s Beach Drive and Browning, North Cape May Welcome: Outside. What We Love: Your best friend deserves a great view of the sunset, too. “Big buckets of ice water” provided. Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grille Madison and Beach Avenue Welcome: Porch only. What We Love: Water bowls and shade for your pup, a view of the ocean for you. Hawk Haven Vineyard 600 South Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande Welcome: Outside only (dogs are no longer allowed under the tent or in tasting room). What We Love: Your pup can help resident vineyard dog Maggie chase the birds from the grapes. Lobster House Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May harbor Welcome: On the dock only. What We Love: The look on the faces of the dogs who get to pull up by boat. Merion Inn 106 Decatur Street Welcome: On the patio. What We Love: Eddie, the dog belonging to the owner of the White Dove Cottage owner Alison Bjork, recently celebrated his second birthday here. “He wore a party hat that our hostess made, and he had a bowl of ice cream to himself for dessert with a candle in it,” says Merion Inn owner Vicki Watson. New York Hot Bagels 315 Ocean Street Welcome: Outside only. What We Love: For a really special treat for your pup, order a few slices of Boar’s Head Genoa salami. On The Rocks Cape May-Lewes Ferry, 1200 Lincoln Boulevard, North Cape May Welcome: Outside and certain areas inside. What We Love: “The cooks are very accommodating for dogs, because everything is made to order,” says
Depot Market Café 409 Elmira Street Welcome: Outside. What We Love: Water provided. “Last year, we had people who pushed their dog here in a stroller and always ordered him a side of bacon,” says Depot owner Lisa Shriver. Emilia’s Garden Café 479 West Perry Street Welcome: In the outside garden. What We Love: “We bring bowls of fresh water now, but we’ll have a special doggie menu coming in August,” says owner Tommy Carpenito.
exit zero
54 August 2013
Dawn Stererker, Assistant Manager of Food and Retail for the Cape May Lewes Ferry. Pilot House 142 Decatur Street Welcome: Patio only. What We Love: “I’ve had people order hamburgers for their dogs before,” says General Manager Ed Nielsen. “I say, ‘Sure, whatever you want.” Rusty Nail 205 Beach Avenue Welcome: All over the sand pit and outside bar. What We Love: Aside from the great food and drink options for your pooch (see page 60), we love watching the mutts enjoying this laidback beach vibe. “They dress up in Rusty Nail gear and pose for photos,” says Marketing and Programming Coordinator for Cape Resorts Brooke Buscaglia. “They get in the boat and love the attention!” Sunset Beach 502 Sunset Boulevard Welcome: At The Grille, the gift shops, and “absolutely everywhere,” says owner Larry Hume. What We Love: Your dogs can explore the beach, get a bite to eat, or hang with Sunset Beach icons, Ranger and Augi, the Great Danes belonging to the Hume family, who own the property. Tommy’s Folly Coffee in Congress Hall 251 Beach Avenue Welcome: Outside on the veranda. What We Love: Shoot across the promenade during your morning walk so your pup can rest his paws on the breezy veranda, and you can get your morning espresso fix. Zoe’s 715 Beach Avenue Welcome: On the patio. What We Love: The dogs get water bowls and “whatever they want off the menu,” according to server Kara Kealy. We suggest the roast beef! Check out photos of some of the restaurant’s regular furballs at zoescapemay.comphotos.
Frenc h-inspired cuisine at its best. A truly Victorian experience with truly tasty food, located in the wonderful historic Hotel Alcott.
107-113 grant street cape may, new jersey (609) 884-5868 hotelalcott.com The perfect venue for an elegant wedding by the sea.
exit zero
55 August 2013
Accommodations Beach Shack 205 Beach Avenue www.beachshack.com What They Offer: A welcome kit, including water and food bowls with a mat, doggie bed, disposable bags, a welcome treat, and a doggie points-of-interest list. Billmae Cottage 1015 Washington Street www.billmae.com What They Offer: Little gifts for all furry guests (this year it’s a little dog dish), and Yappy Hour events on the porch, featuring wine and homemade treats for people and pets. “The dog we’re expecting today once marked me as his own by peeing on my leg as soon as he arrived,” says owner Linda Steenrod. “The people thought they were going to have to sleep in the street, but I didn’t mind at all. I just told them he was excited to meet me!” Blue Fish Inn 601 Madison Avenue www.whitedovecottage.com What They Offer: Poop pick-up bags, a special area for dogs to do their business, and a map to the petfriendly beach in North Cape May. Cliveden Inn 709 Columbia Avenue www.clivedeninn.com What They Offer: Three dog-friendly rooms on the first floor, a cottage that sleeps six, and a daily bone. “We’ve had so many dogs here, including two very
rare Louisiana leopard dogs,” says Assistant Innkeeper Peggy Peterson. “And a pit bull everyone was wary of at first. All of the guests were feeding him by the end of the week.” Highland House 131 Broadway, West Cape May www.highlandhousecapemay.com What They Offer: All rooms are dog-friendly, and offer access to an outside space — porch, sun deck, or patio. Dogs also have access to a fenced-in play area. Owner Dave Ripoli hosts free paw-teas which feature homemade treats and raise donations for Animal Outreach of Cape May County. Madison Avenue Beach Club Motel 605 Madison Avenue www.madisonavenuebeachclub.com What They Offer: Check out their website for virtual tours of the beautifully equipped suites. Stay in one of them, and the motel will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Beacon Animal Rescue, the non-profit dedicated to rescuing strays about to be euthanized. Marquis de Lafayette 501 Beach Avenue www.marquiscapemay.com What They Offer: Seventeen rooms — the entire first floor — are dog-friendly. The Abbey room and Victorian Suite both feature private outside sitting areas facing the ocean. The poolside Cape May suite has a kitchenette, in case you need to prepare food for Fido. “And the floors are tiled to ensure absolute cleanliness,” says Manager Peggy Evans. “We also
provide a customized room cleaning schedule, to best suit the needs of you and your pet.” Palace Hotel 1101 Beach Avenue www.palacehotelofcapemay.com What They Offer: A dog-walking area with a cozy bench on which to rest, and a directory explaining all the dog-friendly restaurants and activities in town. “We have one dog who has been coming here for years,” says General Manager Allyne Preston. “He likes to sit on the balcony and look out over the ocean. We even have pictures of him in our breakfast room.” Victorian Lace Inn 901 Stockton Avenue www.victorianlaceinn.com What They Offer: A dog-friendly room and a dogfriendly cottage, each with their own private entrance and private deck or patio. “All the dogs that stay here have their own personalities,” says owner Carrie O’Sullivan. “From an adorable rottweiler pup whose only five months old to the sweetest Saint Bernard. I just love them all.” White Dove Cottage 619 Hughes Street www.whitedovecottage.com What They Offer: Two dog-friendly rooms, one with a fenced-in backyard. “I have a four-pound Yorkshire terrier named Minnow coming next week who guards the entire front porch when she’s here,” says owner Alison Bjork.
The hardest part is picking your favorite... A Cape May Tradition!
The Original Fudge KitcheN Facebook
728 Beach Avenue & 513 Washington Street Mall 800-23-Fudge • fudgekitchens.com • We ship anywhere! exit zero
56 August 2013
Website
THE DOGS OF COOL CAPE MAY... AND WHERE TO FIND THEM
Ziggy Hangout: Sunset Liquors, 106 Sunset Boulevard / Age: Five / Breed: Black lab mix / Fun Fact: “She’s great at greeting people and excellent at playing dead,” says Ziggy’s owner and Sunset Liquors’ craft beer aficionado Katy O’Hara.
Freckles Hangout: Wanderlust, 609 Jefferson Street / Age: 6 / Breed: Mutt / Fun Fact: Wanderlust owners Brandy and Bob White adopted Freckles from St. Croix, where they spend winters. “He was part of a pack of wild dogs,” Brandy says. “He’s so easy-going.”
Riley, Jax, Angus, Max Hangout: Back of a pickup belonging to Sandy Thomson, volunteer at Cape May Fire Department / Age: 10, three, 13, and five, respectively / Breed: Golden Retrievers / Fun Fact: All but Riley are rescues from Maryland.
Doc Watson Hangout: Casale’s Shoes, Mall / Age: Five / Breed: English Bulldog / Fun Fact: “Every day he goes to Cape May On Canvas, where they have a portrait of him, the cigar shop, then to see the mailman, then Collier’s,” says manager Chris Gannon.
Emma Hangout: The Red Store, 500 Cape Avenue, Cape May Point / Age: 12 / Breed: Mutt / Fun Fact: “I love that all the customers thought she was deaf last year because she has such selective hearing,” says The Red Store (and Emma) co-owner Deanna Ebner.
Maggie Hangout: Hawk Haven Vineyard, 600 South Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande/ Age: Three / Breed: German short-haired pointer / Fun Fact: Maggie follows co-owner Todd Wuerker through the grounds, playing fetch not with a ball, but a cut vine.
Rudy, Rudytoo, April, Friday Hangout: Exit Zero, 109 Sunset Boulevard / Age: 14, one, nine, nine / Breed: German shepherd mixes, mutts / Fun Facts: Rudy scares himself when he toots, Rudytoo chews shoes while you wear them, April is a true athlete, Friday is a sloth.
Kodi, Cooper Hangout: Rusty Nail, 205 Beach Avenue / Age: Five, eight / Breed: Standard poodles / Fun Fact: They jog alongside parents, Matt Gilmore and Heather Padgett, in running shoes. When they arrive at the Nail, Kodi naps, Cooper looks for food.
Henry Hangout: King Edward Bar at The Chalfonte Hotel, 301 Howard Street / Age: Almost two / Breed: Golden doodle / Fun Fact: “He always leans on people,” says Henry’s uncle and Chalfonte Hotel Revenue Manager Dillon Mullock.
exit zero
57 August 2013
Doggie beer on the Nail menu
J
ust to prove that Cape May is becoming more dog-friendly, look no further than the Beach Shack and Rusty Nail, which is providing rooms AND doggie beer and treats. We got the details from Brooke Buscaglia, Marketing and Programming Coordinator for Cape Resorts. Why was it important to make the Rusty Nail and Beach Shack more pet-friendly? It was only natural for people to start bringing their dogs to our outside bar, lawn and firepit. Then people started asking for a place to stay. What’s in those dog treats? Peanuts, eggs, cheese, bacon, and whole grains... humans can eat them too, and some do! Other menu items include the hot diggity dog, and the wrangler roundup, which is ground turkey. And what’s the most popular? The wrangler round up, says Chef Jimmy [Burton]. Is there any alcohol in the dog beer served at the Nail? No! It’s made from chicken broth and barley, and it has glucosamine for joints and vitamins. They love it. How many dogs are at the Nail on an average summer day? During the week about five to eight, and on the weekend 10 to 12.
Dog day... Enjoying beer and snacks on the deck of the Rusty Nail. Aleksey Moryakov
Beautifully decorated cakes for every special occasion. Organic coffee and tea. Sweet and savory pastries. 482 West Perry Street Cape May 609.884.7454 capemaybakers.com
exit zero
60 August 2013
TheresRioCCEZ2013*
iet ean D rran tes e t i d ola Me Choc Dark
e mad Hand amels ar C t l Sa Roas t Dark Almond Choc olate
Pean ut a Choc nd Caram olate e Bars l Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Edamame Crunch
y berr Rasp che Red ana G e Win Raw
Coco
nut C hoco
late
l retze key P te Smo a l o Choc Fair T Choc rade olate s
7/17/13
5:02 PM
Page 1
There’s Rio Crab Cakes. Then there’s everybody else.
r Taylo Dick ocolate h C t Craf
olate Choc Dark unky c i n Orga mond Ch Al
Pistachio Chipotle Chocolate
Handmade for 26 years in our own kitchen Named
609-884-5519
108 Jackson Street, Cape May
Green Street Market
Best Crab Cakes in SJ
for three years in a row by SJ Magazine • 2011 • 2012 • 2013 • Winner of the Wine Spectator
Award of Excellence Four Years in a Row 2010 2011 2012 2013
Natural Health & Gourmet 0rganic produce Grass fed organic meats Organic poultry Gluten Free Vegan Vitamins and Herbal Supplements
Rated Top 10 Wine Values in New Jersey
Seafood and Steak House
open 7 days 3167 RT. 9 South Rio Grande NJ 08242 (next to Avalon Coffee) 609-463-0606 www.greenstreetmarket.com email: info@greenstreetmarket.com
exit zero
Grande Center Shopping Mall Route 9 • Rio Grande, NJ • 609-889-2000 Visit us at riostation.com
61 August 2013
a cape may moment
The Altieri and Bird families on the Washington Street Mall on July 20. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
When you see a restaurant packed with locals, you KNOW you’ve come to the right place.
Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Eat In • Take Out TALK TO US ABOUT PLANNING YOUR NEXT CATERED EVENT! CALL 609-884-8030 FOR OUR DAILY SPECIALS! 409 Elmira Street, Cape May (Next to the Train Station)
609-884-8030
exit zero
62 August 2013
Aleathea’s Restaurant
cold beer in frosted mugs, great Tavern food
AT 7 OCEAN
and great value!
Superb food, elegant bar, antique store, dining room with ocean views... it’s all here!
eight flat-screen HDTVs kids welcome!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Served Daily Monday - Rib Night
Enjoy a Cocktail on our Ocean Front Porch!
Tuesday - Tavern Pizza Night Wednesday - Wing Night Thursday - $2 Slider Night
HAPPY HOUR
Sunday thru Friday 3-6pm Food Specials 4 to 5pm 7 Ocean Street at the Inn of Cape May 609.884.5555 | www.innofcapemay.com
exit zero
C-View Inn
Voted “Best Casual Eats” Best of the Shore 2012 South Jersey Magazine
63 August 2013
Texas Avenue & Washington Street Cape May • (609) 884-4712
Paradise found... Good Food Friendly Atmosphere Waterfront Dining Awesome Sunsets! Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily Live Music Nightly Free Parking
Cape May’s Premier Touring and Tasting Destination Cocktail Tours Daily Sample signature cocktails at Cape May’s most popular places including Ugly Mug, Mad Batter, Harbor View, Cabanas, Aleathea’s, Hemingway’s, Carney’s, Pilot House & Jackson Mountain Professional photographers accompany tours with photos available for purchase online Customized Dining Tours and Pub Crawls Available... perfect for weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, showers, birthdays, and more!
91 Beach Drive, North Cape May (609) 886-5529
Call (609) 898-7390 Cocktailsatthecape.com
exit zero
64 July 2013
a cape may moment
Three generations of Cape May lovers — Sheila, Catherine and Patricia DiPatri. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
Harbor View RESTAURANT, BAR & DECK
Waterfront Bar, Restaurant and Deck 2nd floor dining view of the entire harbor, and an Outside Bar that’s Classic Key West! Enjoy Delicious Sushi on the Deck
954 ocean drive, cape may • (609) 884-5444 • harborviewcapemay.com exit zero
65 July 2013
Beyond the horizon Stan Sperlak, pastel master of the South Jersey landscapes, reveals the motivations behind his latest Cape May art show, which features 40 new works. Interview by Jack Wright
exit zero
66 August 2013
exit zero
67 August 2013
exit zero
68 August 2013
Above: “Secret of the Evening.” Opposite page: “Crossing Tracks” and “When the Moon Comes.” Previous page: “Fall on the Marsh.” exit zero
69 August 2013
t
he signature painter of South Jersey’s landscapes is coming to SOMA NewArt Gallery for his sixth successive solo art exhibition. Stan Sperlak will be featuring around 40 new works in “Breaking the Horizon,” which opens at SOMA, in Carpenter’s Mall, Cape May, on Saturday, August 24 and runs through September 22. Here Stan discusses his new works, his inspirations, aspirations... and frustrations. What is the theme behind the new show, Stan? Thanks for asking — it’s always great to talk with your readers. “Breaking the Horizon” is a take on the idea that I have used the horizon as a muse for the past decade, and will be adding some new elements this year. I will be sharing my show with a great friend and amazing artist, Victor Grasso, who has taken leave of his traditional solo show as he has a museum show in October, but will bring a few new works. You operate a thriving landscaping business — how do you split your time between that and your artwork? My answer to this has been it’s a 60-60 split! I tend to put in about eight to 10 hours at the landscaping design office, and then have Tuesday/Thursday/ Saturday/Sunday and half-day Friday in my studio. I often rise before the sun and get one or two small studies in. These studies I use for my larger works. I do a lot of observation, especially in the evening, and often have a debate with myself whether or not to accompany the observation with a glass of wine. I used to paint a lot in the evening at my studio, but now that my sons are grown and have moved out, or rather I moved out, I lost that evening time when they would hang around the studio after school doing their homework while I painted. And I guess as I get older, I find sleep and socializing to be fun, so I’m not as much of a studio hermit as I was. For how many years have you been painting the South Jersey landscape? Since 1997, when I left art school at the Pennsylvania Academy and starting working in the evenings with Patricia Witt, who has taught for decades the grand old traditions of painting from life. You have established a real trademark style. Do you ever feel like tearing it all up and doing something completely different? This is a frustrating question... it reminds me of when people say, ‘Hey Stan, are you still, um, painting?’ It’s as if it were something I was supposed to grow out of or discover it wasn’t really a profession. Does anyone ever say to a doctor or an architect, ‘Still a doctor? Still designing buildings?’ Artists should be treated the same way and they are not in most cases. What I do is serious, my painting, my teaching, and I hope that I help others see the cape in
Above: “Sentries and the Sky,” part of Stan Sperlak’s new show at SOMA. new eyes and open up its beauty to them. Ever been tempted to paint the architecture and landscapes of Cape May? Early in my career I did many street scenes and they sold well, but they took more time, people were more critical because they were impressionistic and also too many people talk to you on the street, so getting good work done was hard. I have done the lighthouse many times, but I really prefer the farmhouses and exit zero
70 August 2013
solo structures. Besides, Marie Natale, who is my friend and shows at SOMA, does amazing architectural paintings, watercolors of the Cape May genre and is so talented. I own some of her work — he reminds me of the legacy of Alice Steer Wilson, who did Cape May so well in watercolor in the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Do you enjoy splitting your life between your business and your art or would you be a full-time artist in a perfect world? Both are creative processes. I love plants. I can’t wait to get to work sometimes
to see the new stock and love to deliver 200 plants to a site and lay them out — the men plant them! I’m blessed to have a great crew of over 20 men and women. Yes, I would like to retire and just paint and teach, every artist’s dream, but the market can change each year and having both running protects me and the people who depend on me. I feel truly blessed. You’re heavily involved with the local arts scene. What is your ambition for the South Jersey arts? I came to success early in my career — by 1998 I was selling well in
street shows and being picked up by galleries. The 9-11 came, the stock market crashed, Alice Wilson passed and I thought, what is it all about? I decided to get involved, I joined several boards and organizations, quitting the ones that didn’t need help, or were resistant to change, and focused on a couple that needed help. I became vice-president for the Cape May County Art League, and then its president for six years at a time when it just came together with a great group of similar-minded artists. I always felt the arts could use a business mind exit zero
71 August 2013
along with the creativity and I brought my expertise in there more than my art. I think the art scene is doing fine, though I wish there was a gallery district as in Sante Fe, Carmel, Asheville, Gloucester and Provincetown, but if it was meant to be it would have happened. Cape May can’t be everything to everyone. What’s your idea of a perfect day in South Jersey? Breakfast at Steve’s on 47, paint all morning, dip in the ocean, lunch at the Lobster House raw bar, dinner at Frescos, and a sunset on the farm — with a special person!
grizzly bear claws, bald eagle talons, great white shark teeth... these are just some of the elements in victor grasso’s new art show. photography by frank weiss
Grasso Goes Wild exit zero
72 August 2013
exit zero
73 August 2013
Victor Grasso will have a minor presence at the SOMA NewArt Gallery this year, as he prepares for a major solo exhibition at the Noyes Museum of Art in October. But even his small exhibit, “The Great White Hunt,” will make an impact, given his use of cuddly materials like grizzly bear claws and great white shark teeth. His show opens on Saturday, August 24 and runs through September 22. Here, he discusses his latest work with Jack Wright.
exit zero
74 August 2013
What’s this latest SOMA show all about, Victor? Those are some pretty interesting pieces you’ve created. It’s a conceptual take on hunting and conservation. It’s a mix of Victorian fascinations, in the sense of gathering artifacts such as animal claws and teeth to study and make decorative art with. The Victorians would make pictures with human hair and butterflies and had a particular liking for small taxidermy creatures. This is combined with a Native American design element — mainly the spiral patterns of the spiritual mandalas and an antiquated maritime theme like whaling. Why the fascination with things like shark teeth and grizzly bear claws? I’m always looking for something different to create and I really wanted to make a painting out of objects that aren’t paint. So it goes back to the whole hunting thing — even though these pieces that I’ve created are beautifully decorative they are made out of what animals use to hunt, that is, their teeth and claws, so there’s a twist on who’s hunting who. There is something amazing about looking at a stunning design made out of savage objects. Where did you get the idea to create these pieces? From my imagination. I am definitely influenced by the Victorians making decorative pieces from butterflies as well as the Pacific Northwest indian compositions and some contemporary artists like Damien Hirst, who makes beautiful pieces out of real butterflies that look like stained-glass windows. What kind of customer are you thinking will be into this? Ones with excellent taste, though new things are often scary to people. Other than this, what have you been up to since readers heard about your last SOMA show? I had a great show in July in Asbury Park at Parlor Gallery. I was featured in a group show called “The Night is Dark” with a bunch of great artists. For the last two years I have been conceptualizing and producing work for my exhibition “Fable” for the Noyes Museum of Art, which is featuring 13 brand-new paintings in October. We’ve seen some of the amazing paintings you’ve done for that show and will be featuring them in our next issue. It’s a major exhibition — how much of your time does that take up? All my time.
Victor Grasso pictured in front of “Shaman,” which comprises raven talons, polar bear claws, killer whale teeth, grizzly bear claws, bald eagle talons and great white shark teeth. Opposite page: “The Way The Sea Was,” a 36 x 48 ink on paper. On the previous pages, Victor’s other work is featured, “Breaking Abyss,” comprised of wolf claws, great white shark teeth, bald eagle talons and saber-tooth cat teeth. exit zero
75 August 2013
SPECIAL PROMOTION
how to have fun in cool cape may... and save $460! Presenting the greatest collection of money-saving offers you’ve ever seen... elegantly packaged as a designer deck of cards
exit zero
76 August 2013
exit zero
77 August 2013
the CAPE MAY EXPERIENCE Discount Deck
U
sually, something that seems too good to be true is just that. Well, here’s the exception to that rule! The Cape May Experience Discount Deck, from Exit Zero magazine, really IS everything it appears to be... which is THE best way to enjoy Cape May while saving a lot of money. To be precise, you will save $460 if you use all 52 cards in the elegantly designed pack of cards. And all you pay is $25. Go for dinner at The Ebbitt Room or Cabanas, followed by breafkast at SeaSalt the next morning and you already got most of your money back! And unlike many other special offers, there are no exceptions or blackout days. These cards are good for every single day, from May 1 this year to April 30, 2014. You can buy The Cape May Experience Discount Deck from the Exit Zero Store and Gallery, 109 Sunset Boulevard, our beachfront store at Beach Avenue and Jackson, online at ezstore.us (with free shipping)or call us on 609770-8479 and pay by credit card. You will also see it for sale at selected establishments around town.
Savings you can taste! There are no hidden catches with your Discount Deck. For example, you can save $10 at The Black Duck, with a minimum spend of $40. You can go any night of the week, even a Saturday night in August (assuming you get a reservation at this excellent restaurant). So get out there and use your deck to enjoy the tantalizing Cape May eating experience!
exit zero
} participating restaurants
Aleathea’s Save $5 on breakfast/lunch — minimum spend $20. Backstreet Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50. Bella Vida cafÉ Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend of $40. Black Duck ON SUNSET Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend of $40. THE Blue Pig TAVERN Save $10 on breakfast — minimum spend of $20. Cabanas Save $10 on B/L/D — minimum spend of $40. CAPE MAY Fish Market Save $10 on a minimum spend of $50. Cucina Rosa Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50. THE Ebbitt Room Save $15 on dinner — minimum spend $75. 5 West Pub Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $30. Frescos Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $60. Godmother’s Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $40. Harpoon Henry’s Save $5 on lunch/dinner — minimum spend $25. Harry’s OCEANFRONT BAR AND GRILLE Save $5 on B/L, beach service — minimum spend $15. Island Grill Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $40. Mad Batter Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50. MagicBrain CYBERCAFÉ Save $5 on a minimum spend of $15. Merion Inn Save $15 on dinner — minimum spend $75. Oyster Bay Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50. Peter Shields INN Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50. Rusty Nail Save $5 on lunch — minimum spend $20. SeaSalt Save $10 on breakfast — minimum spend $30. Tisha’s Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $30. Ugly Mug Save $10 on lunch, dinner — minimum spend $50. Zoe’s Save $5 on B/L/D — minimum spend $25.
78 August 2013
Cre ati n g y o u r ow n b a c k ya rd h e a ve n? We c a n h e l p.
indoor & outdoor furniture | candles | decorations | cushions | souvenirs
2 0 3 S U N S E T B LV D., W E S T C A P E M A Y (6 0 9) 8 8 4 -18 49 exit zero
79 August 2013
the CAPE MAY EXPERIENCE Discount Deck } participating stores
Savings that will inspire you
T
HE best thing about The Cape May Experience Discount Deck? It’s packed with the kind of establishments you already frequent, like Bath Time, located in the middle of the Washington Street Mall, where you will save $10 off a minimum
A Place on Earth Save $5 on a minimum spend of $30. Bath Time Save $10 on a minimum spend of $30. Bird House of cape may Save $10 on a minimum spend of $35. Cape may Olive Oil Co. Save $10 on a minimum spend of $35. Carpenter’s Square Mall Save $10 on a minimum spend of $30. Exit Zero store & gallery Save $15 on a $25 color issues subscription. Flying Fish studio Save $10 on a minimum spend of $40. Good Scents Save $10 on a minimum spend of $50. italian Garden Save $5 on a minimum spend of $40. Louisa’s Chocolate Bar Save $5 on a minimum spend of $15. Red Store Save $5 on a minimum spend of $25. seaside Cheese Save $5 on a minimum spend of $25. tommy’s Folly Save $10 on a minimum spend of $40. Wanderlust Save $10 on a minimum spend of $30. } participating salons & spas
to go, it won’t take long to get a return on your $25 investment.
accent on Beauty Save $5 on a minimum spend of $25. Artizan Salon & SPA Save $5 on a minimum spend of $25. Cape may Day Spa Save $10 on any massage or facial Sea Spa at congress hall Save $15 on a minimum spend of $75.
Wander into the shops at Carpenter’s Square Mall, where
} participating activities
you could save $25 in minutes! Or you could spoil yourself
Cape May Stage Save $10 on a show ticket. Cape may Whale Watch & research Save $10 on a trip. East Coast Jet Boat, jet Ski & Parasail Save $10 on a trip or rental. East Lynne Theater company Save $10 on a show ticket. Miss Chris Kayak rentals Save $5 on a kayak rental Osprey Cruise Save $5 on any trip.
spend of $30! Bonnie Mullock and staff run a beautifully designed, delightfully stocked operation. Wherever you choose
with a signature treatment at Accent on Beauty or Sea Spa at Congress Hall. Or maybe you’re feeling a little bit adventurous and in need of some activity during your vacation? In which case, go see East Coast Jet Boat, Jet Ski and Parasail. And for some quality theater, both Cape May Stage and East Lynne are offering $10 off their regular ticket prices. That’s a saving of around a third! Let the fun, and the savings, begin.
exit zero
80 August 2013
Laser Maze
Beam-Bending Logic Game
Lights and mirrors may make it feel like magic, but it’s really science and a good dose of brain power that’s needed!
Cape May’s source for window coverings since 1973
The
Toy Shop
Family owned and operated for 40 years Fully licensed and insured
Wildly Imaginative Toys
Shutters, blinds, shades, woven woods, draperies
of Cape May
Fun for the Kids ... and grownups too!
Desatnick’s Window Fashions 609-884-2545 desatnicks.com
Open Every Day!
Turkish Towels
Wherever You Need A Towel, It’s Just Right! Elegant & Lightweight!
510 Washington Street Mall Cape May (609) 884-0442
If you love Italy if you love Italian products if you love unique fragrances and luxurious skin care if you want to look beautiful you must visit Italian Garden. 5 NEW Luscious Fragrances with Scents of Ivy, Citrus, Viola, Tahitian Flower, and Poppy; PLUS a Full Line of Argan Oil Skin and Hair Care Products
Open All Year 318 Washington St. Mall Cape May 609.884.9234 Bathtimecapemay.com
exit zero
italian Garden 510 Carpenter’s Lane, Cape May (609) 884-2300
81 August 2013
Visit our beautifully designed store... 2,500 square feet and two floors of ridiculously cool Cape May souvenirs!
Exit Zero Store & Gallery
And don’t miss our brand-new store on BEACH AVENUE, near corner of Jackson. Open daily from 9am-10pm! A stunning range of gifts and goodies for the home, from sugar bowls to candle sticks, coffee mugs to pillows... and a nautical line of jewelry! exit zero
82 August 2013
109 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May ÂŤ 609-770-8479 Open daily 9am-9pm ÂŤ Online at ezstore.us
exit zero
83 August 2013
sentinels of the shore Ever wonder what the brave, resourceful men and women of Cape May Beach Patrol think about when they’re on those stands all day? We met six of them and talked about the adrenaline of rescuing, the pleasures of pedicures and meatball subs, the puzzling lack of whales, and why you all need to stop complaining about jellyfish. Interviews by Diane Stopyra Photography by Frank Weiss
exit zero
84 August 2013
exit zero
85 August 2013
W
hen we think of lifeguards, we
Jake Samuelson, 27
picture bronzed bodies in Birdwells,
The reactions of the swimmers you save vary wildly. Some people are grateful; some ignore you entirely.
running slow-motion-style along the water-line... thank you Baywatch. But there’s a lot more to the men and
women who protect Cape May’s beaches than great tans, great bodies and — well, okay, they do do a lot running. We interviewed six of the patrol’s members about what it takes to be a part of the team — there’s likely more working out than you’d expect, an unyielding passion for the water, and a militant desire to keep you safe in it. The lifeguards of Cape Island are responsible for predicting a medium that is, by definition, unpredictable; for being at once confident and self-possessed, and aware of the inherent human vulnerability that exists while navigating mother nature’s currents and tides. They are beholden not just to the protocols established by captains, lieutenants, and years of on-the-job experience, but to an internal code that demands dedication — no matter how many times they have to field questions about what time the dolphin show begins. Here are their stories...
It doesn’t take a catastrophic storm to make the water dangerous. I’ve seen the waves significantly larger than over head height after a tropical depression. People don’t understand there’s a methodical pattern to watching the water. It’s not a blanket stare back and forth. We’re looking for dangers and trying to mitigate them. This isn’t a pool. The strangest thing I’ve seen wash ashore is probably unspent ammunition from the Coast Guard Base. Every once in a while, a pelagic bird, like the gannet, that isn’t proficient on land will make its way to shore, and you have to give them a hand getting back out. Once, while on the stand by myself, a father and son got caught in a rip, and they got separated from one another. A passing recreational boat threw a buoy to the young boy, and I went after the father, who was worse off. He was the classic picture of a nonswimmer the way he was flapping around and panicked. He was in such distress I had to lock him up with the can from behind instead of tossing it to him, which is protocol for a swimmer who is conscious, alert, and oriented. Sometimes, you go after someone without knowing how it would turn out if you weren’t there — maybe the rip would dissipate or maybe he’d be able to make it in on his own. This was not one of those times. This man was actively drowning. I’ve lived here all my life. I spend 50 hours a week looking out over the water, and I’ve never seen a whale. I’m always skeptical of someone who has. Lifeguards don’t do this job for the money. n
exit zero
86 August 2013
exit zero
87 August 2013
Max Van Dyke, 24 My rookie year, Cape May Beach Patrol only accepted four guards out of maybe 20 who’d tried out. It was intense; they were all college athletes. So yes, I was nervous... then again, I get nervous about everything. It’s a family. I’ve made so many lifelong friends on this patrol. Everyone has your back. There have been rescues, but the most memorable times to me are the quiet, serene moments when you take out the paddle board or the boat, and the dolphins are surrounding you. You soak it all in and realize how grateful you should be. A meatball sub... that tastes best after a day on the stand. I’m not a feminist, so I don’t want to come across like ‘girls are awesome,’ but this is cool to be part of — there are more girls on this patrol than almost any other in the area. Our captain is awesome, and he respects that we’re just as capable. There are impressive, athletic women here, so don’t be weird or nervous if you see two females guarding your beach.
“There are more girls on this patrol than almost any other in the area. Our captain is awesome, and he respects that we’re just as capable. There are impressive, athletic women here, so don’t be weird or nervous if you see two females guarding your beach.”
here. One family visits me in Colorado during the off-season. Yesterday, a little girl asked how old she needs to be before she can do what I do. Every day I’m in the water, feeling what the swimmers feel. Every day, I’m reminded that the ocean can be treacherous. I love the feeling of being completely submerged in it, but I never underestimate the ocean’s power. I woudn’t say it’s paralyzing, but I do think about the responsibility all the time. It may be a beautiful day on the beach, but you can’t get distracted by any of that. You have to be always watching. I constantly go through emergency scenarios in my head. I think about it even during lunch... you don’t want to eat a gigantic bowl of pasta, for instance, in case you have to run. Even little things you have to constantly keep in mind. When you need help, you turn around and everyone is there. A medical call took place a few days ago, and it wasn’t even that bad — a man was having a little trouble breathing — but there were 10 of us and three lieutenants on the scene in moments. The support is incredible. The best advice? Work your butt off and enjoy every minute of it; this is the best job in the world. n
I’m from Vail, Colorado, where I just finished my first year of teaching art and coaching track and cross-country. There are definitely times in the winter when I’m dealing with high schoolers that I think... I just want to be on the beach. We’re not just sitting up there getting a really good tan. We have to work out every day, except for Sundays. For me, personally, if I have a weaknees, I work on it until it’s not a weakness anymore. So, no, I don’t think there’s anything I couldn’t do. I love building relationships. Sometimes people will tell us before they leave how much they appreciate us being exit zero
88 August 2013
exit zero
89 August 2013
“It’s annoying when beach-goers bring you trash and ask you to throw it out. And they always want to know what time the dolphin show is.”
Rob Moran, 24
mind you can’t achieve otherwise.
I’m in law school at Rutgers University, and I have one year left. After that, I’ll have to get a real job, but until then, I’m enjoying being paid to exercise, be outside, and help people. It’s the best job I’ve ever had.
The first sneak of every season — that’s when one guard goes after one person — is always a reminder of how dangerous the ocean can be. In total — sneaks and rescues together — I’ve probably been part of 40 to 50.
When people are in trouble, I feel a sense of urgency, but I’m never nervous. I feel confident in my ability to do what I need to do. I don’t think there is a quality that makes me ill-suited for lifegaurding, and that might sound cocky, but I’m pretty good at this job.
I wish I could pull someone out of the water every day.
My brother, Xavier (our mother is French-Canadian), and I once rescued two brothers who were caught in a rip current 40 or 50 yards from shore. Two brothers rescuing two brothers — that’s pretty cool. I have a vocabulary word of the day. It’s a little competition I have with some of the other guards. We try to use the word and, at the end of the day, we sit down and discuss who used it the best. That person wins a prize. I can’t tell you what all of the prizes are, but I can tell you that the person who wins today — the word is “bestow” — gets a free cup of coffee as soon as they wake up tomorrow morning, and we’re all responsible for making sure it gets there. For the person who wins on Sunday, everyone will have to send positive, genuine thoughts in his direction for 24 hours. I used to sit on the same beach every day, but now I rove from place to place. It makes me sort of an anonymous lifeguard, which I kind of like. It’s annoying when beach-goers bring you trash and ask you to throw it out. And they always want to know what time the dolphin show is. I like competition for the same reason I like responding to emergency situations — it puts you in a state of exit zero
90 August 2013
I took first place in Counties this year in the run/swim. Seeing the people who came to support me — and knowing I’m a part of this team — that was as rewarding as the win itself. The best friends I’ve ever had are on this patrol. I take pictures throughout the summer, so in the winter when I’m feeling nostalgic for this place, I can look through them. That happens once a week. It’s got to be Mexican food, something with avocado from 5 De Mayo maybe, when I get out of the water. I am worried about skin cancer. I definitely have more freckles than I used to. n
exit zero
91 August 2013
“You don’t hear people talking trash behind anyone’s back. Even though some of the guards haven’t grown up yet, you can tell they’re trying. If someone messes up, another guard lets them know before it gets to the lieutenant level. The beach patrol takes care of its own.”
Bill Wilson, 27 I am a Marine. I spent five years on active duty, and three years on inactive duty. I was overseas for seven months, in Iraq. I wanted to serve my country, travel the world, and follow in the footsteps of my father and grandfather, who were both Marines. I like pedicures. I got my first tattoo, of a girl on my rib cage, before I left for Iraq. I wanted to get it there because I knew it would hurt. If I got injured overseas, I would be able to think, “I sustained that pain, and I’ll sustain this.” I’ve definitely saved lives. I’ve pulled people out of the water who were going under, and I’ve kept kids from getting crushed by the surf. I didn’t always want to guard. But in Iraq, in a Humvee on a hot day, I pictured myself running on the beach. I decided to go for it. It’s nice, reporting to work without shoes. I work as a firefighter in Cape May, and I’m studying for an associate’s degree in public health because I’d like to be a paramedic some day. As a kid, I always wanted to be a superhero. Lifeguarding is the closest thing to it, I guess.
told to bring a rescue can home with us; if your house washes away, you have to fend for yourself. We do listen to music on the stand — Sublime, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Jack Johnson. You don’t hear people talking trash behind anyone’s back. Even though some of the guards haven’t grown up yet, you can tell they’re trying. If someone messes up, another guard lets them know before it gets to the lieutenant level. The beach patrol takes care of its own. Um, yeah, women love lifeguards. They love coming up to the stand and talking to us, and we don’t mind the company. Complacency kills. I felt very proud of a young guard named Tommy. I took him out for a long row on the boat and, after a while, I said, “Doesn’t your ass hurt?” He told me that it did, but he didn’t want to turn around. Finally, I said let me see your hands. They were raw. He still didn’t want to go in, but I didn’t give him a choice. People always ask the same weird question... “Aren’t you going to do anything about the jellyfish?” What am I supposed to do?!
I love when I can help a little child out, whether that’s with first aid or knowlege about the water. Some of them are seeing the ocean for the first time, and that’s a pretty priceless feeling. You can feel that energy around you.
Beachgoers are always bringing us sunglasses and reading glasses they find in the ocean.
People love walking on green, slippery rocks.
I think, finally, I am a hero. It’s taken a little while, but I can honestly say I feel like a hero. n
During Hurricane Irene, we stayed behind to close the beaches, and we didn’t pull back from headquarters until the last second, when the whole town had already evacuated. We were exit zero
92 August 2013
You learn so much about currents, winds, and tides, and how it’s all affected by the moon, so you can’t help but feel more connected to nature.
exit zero
93 August 2013
“I remember the day a little boy got swept out. Twelve guards created a chain to get to him quickly, but it took a good 15 minutes before it was safe to bring him in; the impact zone, where the waves crash, was so rough that day. When he was finally back on shore, everyone on the beach clapped.”
Anthony Onimus, 21 Lifeguards are a symbol of summer. I’m from Reading, Pennsylvania, but I’ve been coming to Cape May since I was a young kid. I grew up idolizing the guards on Trenton Avenue who would take me in the water with them and let me hang out on their cans. Now, I have a group of kids who do the same to me. The north-end guards tend to stick together; and same with the south-end guards. Convention Hall is the divider. We get really close. You sit with each other for eight hours at a time, so if you don’t like someone... you learn to like him. Nothing scares me. Well, I don’t like spiders, but I wouldn’t say they scare me. I’m studying finance and risk management at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. I want to go into banking and then, eventually, teaching, so hopefully I’ll be able to continue lifeguarding at some stage. I can’t imagine my summers without the beach. I love an adrenaline rush. I’ve gone cliffjumping for something to do. When there’s a rescue, your blood is pumping, but you go into autopilot. I remember the day a little boy got swept out. Twelve guards created a chain to get to him quickly, but it took a good 15 minutes before it was safe to bring him in; the impact zone, where the waves crash, was so rough that day. When he was finally back on shore, everyone on the beach clapped. You see all sorts of crazy things wash up. There’s been whale blubber and, recently, a four-and-a-half-foot sea turtle that it took some sort of bulldozer contraption to remove. I’d say Baltimore, where I guard, is the best beach on the island. It’s not as exit zero
94 August 2013
packed as the others, just relaxing. And it’s an easy beach, I guess, because although I’ve heard about spine injuries and broken ankles, I’ve never seen anything like that. Lifeguards have a reputation for loving to party but, in the summer, preparing for competition is my life. I wake up, work out, guard my beach, go home for dinner, head to the gym, shower, go to bed, get up and do it all over again. Some guys try to pick up girls; I’m not there for that. I’m there to guard the beach. But if a girl wants to come up to the stand and talk, she can talk. The long rows are the most grueling workouts, but necessary. In late August, I’ll be competing in Wildwood’s Around the Island race, which is 22 miles in the row boat. Sometimes for training we do what are called pyramids, where you take 100 hard strokes, 10 easy, 90 hard, 10 easy, 80 hard, 10 easy, all the way down to 10 hard and 10 easy. Then, if you can, you bring it back up. It is an honor to represent Cape May. n
exit zero
95 August 2013
exit zero
96 August 2013
Kelsey Herchenrider, 23 I’m from Cape May, and I always wanted to be one of the guards. I went through the junior lifeguard program when I was 12, 13, and 14, and when I was even younger than that, I used to pull other kids on boogie boards toward the shore, like I was saving them. It’s like a fraternity. I work with people aged 16 to 70, and I can talk with all of them because we have this common ground. We’re always laughing and making fun of one another, like the guys were just doing to me during this photo shoot. There have been times when people have played jokes — like putting a frog in a water jug — but you know if it came down to it, they would do anything for you.
“Sometimes, people come running up to the stand yelling, ‘Oh, my god!’ and you think someone is hurt. ‘There’s a jellyfish out there!’ they say.
We see a lot of neck injuries, and we’re responsible for locking these people up so they can’t move while waiting for the ambulance. In the moment, it’s second nature; you don’t have time to think. It’s not until afterward that you go, “Wow, that could have been really bad.” Some beachgoers feel bad for us; they bring us extra watermelon or Gatorade. I got a milk shake once.
I understand it’s very easy to get distracted, but a lot of issues come from small children on boogie boards floating away while parents are nowhere to be found. When a parent loses a child, they either get hysterical and freak out while running down the beach in a panic, or they’re like, ever so nonchalantly, “Oh, I can’t seem to find my kid.” It’s probably their fourth one.
Sometimes, yeah, you feel like a badass. I’ve lived here my whole life, I’ve been on this patrol for seven years, and I’m still obsessed with the dolphins. Every time they come out, I’m like, “Oh, my God! Look! Dolphins!”
I love seeing the kids grow up. When I was a rookie on Madison Beach, there was a family with children aged four, eight and 11. We called them our
Sometimes, people come running up to the stand yelling, “Oh, my god!” and you think someone is hurt. “There’s a jellyfish out there!” they say.
In the winter, I study occupational therapy as a graduate student at Temple University. But when I come home for the weekend, the first thing I do is get back to the beach.
The guys respect the girls and the girls respect the guys; we have to be each other’s backup. The men are your stereotypical lifeguards, trying to pick up girls all day, but with the women, a guy walks up to the stand, and we’re like, “We’re working; leave us alone!”
The most memorable rescue I was part of happened the time a father and his two sons on boogie boards, who were about 10 years old, got caught in a rip. Guards immediately jumped off the rescue boat that was patroling nearby; it was like Baywatch. No matter how many times this happens, it’s still a rush of adrenaline.
would be, too.
mascots because they were always on the stand, on the board, and following us around. Now, they’re all on the patrol themselves. Sometimes you get hassled. I had a woman the other day get caught in the current. I whistled at her twice — just twice — and she turned around and yelled from the water, “I’m working on it! Shut up!” It’s only because they get embarrassed and you know what, I exit zero
97 August 2013
I was a college swimmer, so I used to do long swim workouts — about two miles — in the ocean three times a week. Now, we often do these things called gauntlets where we start running from, say, Trenton Avenue, sprinting to each stand until we get to headquarters. At each one, we’ll do 25 pushups and 100 crunches, or something like this. A picture of our girls is hanging on the wall in the Rusty Nail from the year we won the competition between all the South Jersey patrols. That was a proud moment. And yes, lifeguards really do hang out at the Nail. n
Chris Dolman is ready for takeoff Fresh from directing Cape May Stage’s last play, the New York-based Bill Murray lookalike plays the lead in the unmissable new farce “Boeing Boeing.”
Interview by Catherine Dugan Photography by Frank Weiss exit zero
98 August 2013
exit zero
99 August 2013
Is Your Co-Worker CRANKY? Maybe she’s wearing the Wrong Bra! Let us help you find the Perfect Fit. BRA specialist available daily! Walk right in or make an appointment.
Est. 1988
429 Washington St. Mall, Cape May NJ Across from the Ugly Mug • 609.898.7448 Cape May Hours: 9am to 11pm daily. Also at: Peddlers’ Village, Shop #30, Lahaska, PA and 51 Palmer Square, Princeton, NJ
www.lacesilhouetteslingerie.com exit zero
O
ne of the many joys of America’s Original Seaside Resort is the relaxed atmosphere, but sometimes it can be a little too relaxed, like when you promise someone an outof-this-world scone for a morning meeting, but the bakery is unexpectedly closed. If you’re lucky, you’re meeting someone like Chris Dolman, who strolls up early, and unconcerned. He understands life in Cape Maybe. “I’ve only seen this place open once,” he says with a laugh. The actor/director (and Bill Murray lookalike — yes, he gets it all the time) stars in the latest Cape May Stage production, Boeing Boeing. He plays the three-timing Bernard, who juggles high-flying fiancees with the help of his faithful housekeeper, Berthe. Boeing Boeing, which has a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most-performed French play worldwide, is set in 1962. In 2008, the Broadway production won the Tony award for Best Revival of a Play, and the hilarious farce fits right in with the Cape May Stage calendar. Bernard is an architect engaged to three women. Each calls his apartment home when she is not jetting about the world as a stewardess. With precise timing, all traces of one woman are swept away before the next one lands, and it all works for Bernard until a new, speedy jet threatens his carefully kept schedule. Suddenly, all three women are in town at once, and Bernard’s visiting friend, Robert, can’t keep the story straight. Farce ensues. Chris, who is based in New York City, has the charm and good looks to play Bernard, and the trim body — let’s just say he wasn’t the one asking about the sticky buns at Bella Vida Café in West Cape May, where we ended up for breakfast. Chris greets people we encounter with a hearty hello, and is quick to praise everyone at Cape May Stage, from the youngest interns to artistic director Roy Steinberg. He seems to have the kind of good-natured appreciation of other people’s talents that is born of confidence in his own work. Even his stories of the quirky celebrities he’s encountered over the years are infused with tolerance — anyone, even a music superstar, can have a bad day. And the smile that sweeps across his face when he mentions his wife Cathi’s next visit to Cape May suggests that this guy is no lothario — he just plays one on stage. Cape May Stage is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and Chris has been involved almost since the beginning. He was brought in by his friend and Cape May Stage founder, the late Michael Laird. How did Michael Laird persuade you to get involved? Michael was a very persuasive guy. He was from Philly, and when we were actors on the road together he used to talk about bringing theater to Cape May. What do you remember about the earliest days? I came to see an early show, Sea Marks, featuring Tom McCarthy, at the Chalfonte Hotel, in the days when you put a light on the stage and did a show. Sea Marks was a good play; they told a good story, in spite of the clip-on lights from Home Depot. They’ve been telling good stories ever since. Now the stories are larger, complicated productions like Lend Me a Tenor and Boeing Boeing, with eight characters
100 August 2013
and multiple costume changes, but they’re still telling good stories. Did the growth of Cape May Stage alter the atmosphere? The spirit has not changed. It’s still a small operation, very personal, and there is bonding that comes as you see everyone every day, working together. Roy sets the example for hard work — he is currently appearing in Lend Me a Tenor, and is also rehearsing Boeing Boeing, and he has, like, an hour off in between, not to mention the many other things he does. I remember seeing The Drawer Boy at Cape May Stage in 2004... I directed that show. It was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen. Better than the production I saw at The Paper Mill Playhouse with the guy from Frasier... Put that in! We didn’t know each other at all before we got together, but we bonded over the work. Do you usually know the other actors? When I started rehearsals for Boeing Boeing, I didn’t know any of the other cast members, other than Marlena Lustig. I met them for the first time at rehearsal — you get to know each other through working so hard together. You have to be efficient, because we only rehearse for two weeks. There is an opening date out there that HAS to happen, and you have to be ready for that night. It almost always happens. How do you think modern audiences will react to the Sixties mentality of Boeing Boeing? Audiences react in a modern way exit zero
because they have to; it’s the only way they can. But the Mad Meninspired interest in the Sixties helps the audience to appreciate just how different attitudes were; just how different the times were. And the women in the play are modern women. Gloria, especially, is modern in her own way. And I think it helps that Bernard gets his comeuppance. Michelle Sinacore is doing the costumes again (as she did with Lend Me a Tenor), so it will look like the early 1960s. What about the future of Cape May Stage? I am a big proponent of the new intern program. They have established a program which has been fantastic — a great group of young artists and administrators who love the theater. They have been invaluable to Lend Me a Tenor. We couldn’t have done it without them. And then they had their intern show, Almost Love, directed by Ben Ferber, which they rehearsed on top of everything, in addition to their other duties, and then performed in late night shows after helping out with Lend Me a Tenor. What’s on the horizon for you? We had a premiere for my short film Box in May, and it was like a real movie premiere, but nobody had to pose for the cameras in front of one of those walls. It will be playing at the Asheville Cinema Festival later this year. How are you spending your free time in Cape May? In nine days, Boeing Boeing opens, and then I should have some free time. I’d love to do some rollerblading. Do you still get nervous? I’m more relaxed as a director than as a performer, because I have confidence in the cast. I’m a bit more stressed as an actor. Can you tell when you’re good in rehearsals or do you need the audience? You rehearse in front of four or five people, sort of in a vacuum, and so you need the audience to remind you just how funny it is. Sometimes you don’t know where you’ll have to pause for a laugh, or how long. And every night it’s a little different — some audiences are outrageously loud and others are quietly appreciative. I sometimes try to seat my relatives in the mezzanine because they tend toward big belly laughs. I can’t imagine an actor who would be bothered by that. } the details
Boeing Boeing, by Marc Camoletti, translated by Beverly Cross and Francis Evans, runs through September 13, Tuesdays through Sundays at 8pm. The running time is two hours, and the play is suitable for ages 13 and up. In addition to Dolman, the show features Marlena Lustig, Laura Woyasz, Matthew Hardy, Liz McKendry, and Laura June Weissinger. Directed by Roy Steinberg. Stage Manager is Lisa Shames, Set Designer is Robert J. Martin, Cyrus Newitt is Lighting Designer and Michelle Sinacore is Costume Designer. You can meet the cast at Sundae on a Tuesday, an oldfashioned ice cream social hosted by Cape May Stage in celebration of its 25th anniversary, one of the 25 Free Things Cape May Stage has planned to thank the community for 25 years of support. This free event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 13, 2013 at 1:00pm at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse on Bank and Lafayette Streets. Advance reservations are not required.
101 August 2013
a cape may moment
Noelle Ransom and Chris Adams held their wedding reception at Hotel Alcott on July 19. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
Sun protection clothing to protect you from the harmful rays of the sun 50+ UVA UVB protection... Made in the USA!
Colleen Dougherty Bronstein Designer/Artist
ELEGANCE
FREE In-Home Consultation www.budgetblinds.com
www.sunthreadz.com colleen@bronsteinartwork.com 215-805-6002
609-513-8595 Shutters | Blinds | Shades | Draperies Hunter Douglas-Signature Series
exit zero
102 August 2013
Have Ellen and Jennifer turn your old fur into a beautiful teddy bear...
The Best of Cape May Only at Henry’s! FOUR-SIDED BEAD Fits all bead bracelets!
... a gift from the heart.
Mother Grimm’s Bears
Exclusive HQ for Pandora Jewelry 407 Washington St. Mall, Cape May 609-884-0334 • henryscm.com
(609) 886-1200 mothergrimmsbears.com
Bayshore Shopping Plaza 3845 Bayshore Road, North Cape May (near the Acme Market) 609.846.7643 Open Mon thru Sat 10am-5pm (Fri. until 7pm!) 302 N Route 9, CMCH, Hospital Campus 609.465.5553 Open 10am to 4pm
A ll
proceeds benefit
C ape R egional M edical C enter . exit zero
103 August 2013
Richard Crossley’s Excellent Adventure It’s a 13,000-mile drive from Cape May to Alaska and back (with a few diversions along the way), but that’s what the local birding expert is doing. Why? In an epic search for nature... and for a little peace and quiet.
exit zero
105 August 2013
Put a little light in your life. Stunning Turkish lamps from $75. ACCESSORIES • MUSIC BOOKS • INCENSE JEWELRY SKIN CARE & OTHER UNUSUAL GOODIES.
Jackson Street & Carpenter’s Lane, Cape May 800-777-8027 • 609-884-0014 • goodscentscapemay.com
CAROLINE BOUTIQUE CAROLINE BOUTIQUE exit zero
• Johnny Was • Chan Luu • Susana Monaco • Velvet • Splendid • Michael Stars
Velvet • James Perse • Ella Moss • Eileen Fisher • Sanctuary • Johnny Was •
Michael Stars • James Perse • Ella Moss • Eileen Fisher • Sanctuary
Interview by Diane Stopyra Where are you right now? Seward, Alaska. My campsite is overlooking a big beautiful expanse of water, and in the background is a glacier with snowcapped mountains and beautiful forest. It’s morning, the weather is 60 degrees with no humidity and no mosquitoes. What else could you want, you know? A cup of coffee, maybe. Let’s start at the beginning. How did you become interested in birding as a young boy? My father collected bird eggs as a child, and so did his father, so as a seven year old living in the boonies in the UK, I did the same thing. When I was 10, a teacher took me and some of the other kids along with him, and I became hooked immediately. How come? Great question. I don’t know. At the time, I was really big into sport. I was being recruited to play soccer and cricket and I turned the offers down. I’m often asked why I would walk away from something every kid wants to do in order to continue birding. It’s probably a mixture of things. One, I love the challenge of it; two, I love the beauty of it; three, I love that you can do it wherever you are, on your own, any time of day. Even at the office I’m constantly looking out the window. I’m free as a bird with license to travel the world and go exciting places. Did you attend college in the UK as well? Yes, although I was barely there because I was always off chasing rare birds. I hitchhiked over 1,000 miles while I was at university, earning a degree in environmental sciences. And after school? As a 21 year old, in 1985, I did what all 21 years old do… took a year off to travel. I wanted to come to the United
106 August 2013
Baby Boutique 106 Jackson St • 609-884-5922
Made In The Beautiful Usa Certified Organic Babiators • Unusual Baby Items Jelly Cats • Hats Of All Kinds Handmade Original Wipey Wallets One of a kind • Egyptian Cottons Baby Shower Registry
Photography by Richard Crossley States to bird, and in fall there is only one place to go – Cape May. It’s an incredible place for migration. Because of it’s geography, everything is funneled here. How many species are we talking about? You’ll see 300 different species in a year in Cape May. And what was your first impression of the town? Love at first sight. It was sunny, bright, and cheerful with birds everywhere. Funny enough, very little was known about birds in this area back then, so I was going to this incredible place, with fantastic opportunities for discovering new things. It was utopia for me for five weeks. And then you went… where? To India and Nepal for the winter. My year of traveling actually became several years of traveling and that was all because of Cape May. Back then, there was a place called the Huntington House, now the Alcott Hotel, on Grant Street. I would work in the popular buffet downstairs for three or four months every summer, which would subsidize my traveling around Asia and the rest of the world during the winters. How many countries have you been to? I don’t have a bloody clue. Give me your most memorable travel experience. Two friends and I had been trekking through the Himalayas – at nearly 12,000 feet — for three weeks, during January of 1986. We met up with a guy from New Zealand and two young Swiss ladies, with whom we set out on a really steep climb looking for a rare bird called the Impeyan, or Nepalese, pheasant. Everyone decided to turn back exit zero
Always carrying a stunning variety of antique, estate and designer jewelry; clothing, shoes and accessories.
315 Washington Commons - daily 10-5 Victorious of Congress Hall - daily 10-5 Pink by Victorious at the Pink House - daily 10-5 in The Pink House 33 PERRY ST, CAPE MAY 609.898.1113
107 August 2013
AT CONGRESS HALL 251 BEACH AVENUE CAPE MAY
except for me and the New Zealand guy until, around midday, when we came to huge drop-off. In the background were six of the world’s 10 highest mountains, an incredible scene. At that moment, seven pheasants flew below… they’re these huge turkey-sized birds that are iridescent colors, and we just knew we were seeing the greatest thing we’ve ever seen. But because of the drop-off, the other guy decided to turn back. I climbed up the cliff face to see what might be even better around the next corner, but I got stuck on that cliff face, about 20 feet up, and I mean I really got stuck, all by myself. I thought I was done. Five or six feet below me was a ravine with suspended ice, and I ended up having to jump onto that. Thankfully, it supported my weight; I was very skinny because I’d been in India for a couple of months and had the Delhi belly. So I was able to get to firm ground. Unfortunately, before I knew it, and while my legs were still shaking, I came upon a wall of fire. One of the guys who had turned back had gone to the bathroom, set their toilet paper on fire, and ended up setting the entire mountain-
Richard with daughter Sophie, who joined him for part of his voyage to Alaska.
side on fire. I had to do a run-and-jump through it. I had no choice. The whole thing was traumatic. When did you meet your wife? Deb and I met in college in England, but she went traveling in the 80s, too. She was in
exit zero
108 August 2013
Greece for six months and Australia for eight months, doing things like working on a sheep farm. We did spend some time in Cape May together every now and then, and we lived together in Japan teaching English for a couple of years. We were married
Pam Verity Back Row - Fury Feraco, Anna Marie Zabielski, Chad Randle, Peg Dittmar Front Row - Janet McShain, Rosalie Hettenbach, Karen Rose, Fran Moore, Pam Verity Not Shown- Penny Beck, Martha Fidler
Fran Moore
The Award Winning
Peg Dittmar
St. Barnabas Group of Local Artists
Karen Rose
is pleased to share their
52nd Annual Exhibition on the beautiful property of Fury Feraco
Fury Feraco 2723 Bay Drive in Fishing Creek
Janet McShain
on
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, August 9th, 10th & 11th. Martha Fidler
Stop by anytime between 10AM and 6PM for a visual experience,
Rosalie Hettenbach
a glass of champagne and some light refreshments.
Chad Randle
For more information, please call 609-898-7578
Penny Beck
Anna Marie Zabielski
exit zero
109 August 2013
in 1990, just before we moved to Cape May together permanently. Did you have a plan for what you’d do here full-time? No. We decided we loved Cape May, and that the important thing was to live there… we would make everything else fit around that. Cape May was my first real home in many respects, I’d moved around so much as a child. I led birding tours for a while when I first came, but I ended up selling cars and, eventually, opening my own business as a finance and insurance specialist. I’m still doing that to a degree, but around my mid-40s, I had what I guess was probably my mid-life crises. I felt as though I hadn’t left my footprint on the thing I love most in the world, other than my family and Cape May, and that’s birding. What did you do about it? When the opportunity came along to be involved in making The Shore Bird Guide with local birders Kevin Karlson and Michael O’Brien, I decided to do it. And that’s a very influential book, correct? Other people say so! I mean, yes, it is different. I had a strong vision of how I wanted it to look, but I couldn’t get the photos I wanted, so I went out, bought a big, fancy camera lens and got into photography. About six months later, I switched to digital; this was before almost anyone else had, and it really rocked my world. And now what do you do? The book thing has become my main focus. Toward the end of putting together The Shore Bird Guide, I had a vision for a new book concept, which resulted in the Crossley ID Guide Series. There are three out so far, and two more should be out in the next year or so. What’s different about your series? It’s the most labor-intensive birding book ever made. I spent about five years and a quarter of a million dollars on the first one. I decided I wanted to take all the photos myself, so I could say it was mine, and there are over 10,000 photos in that book. We figured out how to put 15 shots into one image. What is the incentive of the trip you’re taking now? To take photos, and also to get material for my next key note speech. I do a lot of these speeches at different birding festivals and societies all over the world. I’ll be speaking in Britain and Israel soon. What is your route? I left from Cape
“When you’re living in Cape May and you’re wrapped up with Philly and New York, you see a lot of people and a lot of buildings. But we are in the minority. People and what we build take up such a small percentage. The vastness of this place is overpowering.”
May, went to Albany, across to Syracuse, around the southern edge of the Great Lakes, and to Chicago. I did some birding there, because I’m hoping to capture the juxtaposition of downtown birding with rural birding. Then I went to Wisconsin, to Winnipeg in Canada, and west to Alberta, and Jasper National Park in the Rockies. Then to the British Columbia coast, which is incredible. Then I took a ferry from Prince Rupert up to Haines, over to Anchorage, and now I’m in Seward. Then, I’ll leave for Prudhoe Bay, the Arctic Ocean, and head home. How many miles is that? 13,000. What are you driving? A Honda Pilot. Where are you sleeping? I have a beautiful camp in the back of my car. What are you eating? Lots of fruit that I’m buying from supermarkets. I’m trying to be healthy and lose a little weight. Do you miss a hot shower? No, I love being out in it, without all the pressures of the real world. Just getting back to nature. What do you need a TV for? Is this your first time exploring North America? No, I’ve done this before, but only exit zero
110 August 2013
ever for two or three weeks at time. Never in a snapshot, where I’ve traversed it east to west and north to south in six weeks. It’s a good way to get a feel for the whole kit and caboodle. What’s left you in awe so far? The scale of it — how incredibly massive North America is. And it’s also incredibly beautiful. When you’re living in Cape May and you’re wrapped up with Philly and New York, you see a lot of people and a lot of buildings. But we are in the minority. People and what we build take up such a small percentage. The vastness of this place is overpowering. Has any specific moment taken your breath away? Where the hell do you look next? It’s all been so mind-blowing. But if I had to pick just one moment, it would be the time I spent in Valdez, the site of the catastrophic Exxon Valdez oil spill. It’s a quaint, tiny fishing village with such stunning scenery in the Harbor. But alongside this are oil refineries and just the ugliest maifestations of mankind. The question becomes: can man and the outdoors be together, and I think the answer is yes. We just have to be
Inspired by Nature, Beautiful Home and Garden Decor for You and the Birds.
109 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May (609) 898-8871 • www.birdhouseofcapemay.com Also, visit us at West End Garage exit zero
111 August 2013
really careful about how we coexist; we can’t abuse it. Things seem to be in harmony there now, which is what we should aspire to everywhere. Any great animal encounters? I’m still alive, so… no, although I came within 70 feet of a humpback whale yesterday. And we’ve seen lots of caribou and brown bear, and a black bear with three cubs. It’s not terrifying. It’s us who threaten them. When you say, ‘we’ve seen,’ who do you mean? My oldest child, Sophie, flew up here to spend a week with me. She loves the outdoors. I have two daughters; Sophie is 16 and Samantha is 14. Speaking of family, when your wife emailed us about this trip, she called it your midlife adventure crisis. What do you say to that? I say that that’s the female version. Most men would say it’s getting away for a bit of peace and quiet. Are you the type of birder who checks off the ones you’ve seen from a life list? I’m not into life lists and counting birds… I’m into the beauty of them, the challenge of identifying them and the challenge of
“Birding is not as popular as what it could and should be. We need to change the image, make it younger and more fashionable. Birding leads to a healthy lifestyle, but if you don’t understand what you’re seeing, it’s hard to get into that lifestyle.” making these books. I want to help people understand what they are seeing so they can appreciate it more. I’m trying to change the face of birdwatching in North America. Change it to what? It’s not as popular as what it could and should be. We need to change the image, make it younger and more fashionable. Birding leads to a healthy lifestyle, but if you don’t understand what you’re seeing, it’s hard to get into that lifestyle. The more people that do, the better chances there are for conservation, which is important. In our own backyard right now,
for instance, we have a major problem. What is that? Due to over-harvesting, there aren’t enough horseshoe crab eggs to feed the birds who use the Delaware Bay as a stopover during migration. These birds need to double their weight here in 10 days in order to make the trip from Tierra Del Fuego to the Arctic Circle every year, and we are pushing many of them to verge of extinction with our own stupidity. When I first came here in ’85, I couldn’t see the beach because of birds. But today, there’s probably around 10 percent of what there was. What is it about birds that make them so fascinating to observe? The more you look at wildlife, really look at it, you realize we’re not any different. We sometimes lose sight of this but, for all of us, it’s all about surviving. I mean what are you doing right now? You’re interviewing me. Right? Why? Because I think you’re doing something not enough people do. No, you’re not. You’re interviewing me because you need to make a salary and put food on the table. You’re trying to survive, and that’s all the animals are doing.
There’s a little bit of heart and soul in everything we make. Beautiful, original tees, clothing and accessories, designed and made here on the island.
130 park boulevard west cape may • 609-884-2760 theflyingfishstudio.com
exit zero
112 August 2013
Join Us at sPLASH! Meet Cape May’s Funky Mermaid Jeweler Darleen Eldredge New designs and beach treasures from our Cape May beaches!
August 11 from 11am-2pm Second Sunday Gallery Walk
Bring in your favorite glass shard and Darleen will help identify its origins! Refreshments and fun!
Whale’s Tale Gallery 513 Carpenters Lane, Cape May, NJ 08204 Open Daily 10am-10pm | (609) 846-7100
exit zero
113 August 2013
Summertime... and the livin’s still easy MARIE NATALE WATERCOLOR EXHIBIT
AU G U S T 1 t o AU G U S T 2 7
at the historic Chalfonte Hotel in Cape May, New Jersey
Meet the Artist Reception Sunday, August 4 from 2-3:30pm Marie’s body of work for this display, appropriately titled “Summertime… the livin’s still easy,” captures the spirit and energy of the season.
WO R K S H O P w i t h t h e A RT I S T September 9, 10 and 11, 2013, 9:30am-3:30pm at the Chalfonte Hotel
A signature member of both NJWCS and Philadelphia WCS, Board member of NJWCS, Marie Natale is an award winning and highly recognized artist who says her goal in life is to use her talents to make the world a brighter place while she continues to share with others the joy that art has brought into her life.
The Designer Show House is back
A
fter a year hiatus, Cape May’s Designer Show House has returned, with an exciting project that has majestically transformed the streetscape. The Cavalier Cottage, at 1109 Washington Street, opened its doors to the public this summer as the 2013 Cape May Designer Show House, sponsored by the MidAtlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities. Nestled on Washington Street directly across from the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, the Cavalier Cottage was designed in a style reminiscent of legendary local landmarks, the Southern Mansion or the Mainstay Inn, on a more intimate scale. The 2,800-square-foot home features a 900-square-foot wraparound porch, as well as a cupola gracing the low-pitched roof. In the Italianate style popular in the 1850s-70s, the house features overhanging eaves with oversized brackets and a gracefully pillared veranda, perfect for sitting
The classy and cool master bedroom at the new Cape May Designer Show House at the Cavalier Cottage on Washington Street. Photographs by John Armich
for souvenirs as unique as the memories you created
authentic Cape May elements crafted into one of a kind jewelry custom work available select pieces now available at
White
Viviane Rowan Design 605 Hughes Street
MariaLouiseHigh.com
•
on FaceBook as littlebluestudio
exit zero
115 August 2013
Creek. Watercolor on Duralar. 2013 Matt Lively.
MATT LIVELY RETURNS TO CAPE MAY Join us! Opening Reception is on August 10 The Gail Pierson Gallery is pleased to welcome back to Cape May artist Matt Lively – this time with a whole new story. There will be new Beecycles, wonderful animals and oils. But there are also Creeks, Rivers, Waves and Watercolors. Matt, who is the recognized SQUIGGLE champion of the world, will be Squiggling right here in Cape May. Come find out what that is all about! The new show will run through August.
You Are Invited August 10
ART OPENING AND RECEPTION FOR MATT LIVELY - “A WHOLE NEW STORY” Saturday, August 10 - 6-9 pm Good food, live music & good conversation.
Matt Lively is an artist living in Richmond, Virginia. He works in a 130 year old barn that is close to his family. A lot of things get made in the barn and some of it is shown nationally and internationally. When not in the studio, Matt teaches at Virginia Commonwealth University and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The Gail Pierson Gallery is open all year and welcomes new artists and art lovers from all over to Cape May. August Hours: Friday to Monday 10 am to 1 pm & 5 to 9 pm.
658 Washington Street | Cape May | 609.884.2585 gailpiersongallery.com | www.facebook/GailPiersonGallery exit zero 116 August 2013 | Twitter @GailPierson
Better than sand in your shoes...
and watching the world go by. A custom-made, double mahogany door welcomes visitors to come in and stay a while. Inside, a cozy home office overlooks Washington Street, and a spacious family room invites visitors with a fireplace for chilly nights. Outfitted with the latest in appliances, the kitchen showcases off-white wood cabinetry, a warm wood kitchen island and a beautiful bay window over¬looking the back yard gardens. A generous space is shared by the dining area and for¬mal parlor. A sunroom lets in light and a view of the beautiful plant¬ings in the side yard, with plenty of windows to bring the outdoors in. A spacious master suite and two additional bedrooms and bath await on the second floor. More than a dozen living spaces spotlight the creativity of local and regional designers, making the 2013 Designer Show House a must-see in Cape May. Guided and self-guided tours of the Cavalier Cottage are offered through October 31. Each visitor will receive a full-color program book with information about the designers, products and vendors. Admission is $15. Self-guided tours are offered daily from 1pm to 4pm; guided tours are offered nightly at 7pm, except for Saturdays. Tours of the Designer Show House can be combined with dinner or lunch. Dinner packages are available Sundays through Fridays at 5:30pm with Cape May restaurants ($50). Lunch packages exit zero
Take home some memories of your wonderful days in Cape May with our exclusive Beach Tag glasses and mugs. Decorated with the unique designs of Cape May’s annual beach tags, they are the perfect way to reminisce about your visits...and plan the next one!
AVAILABLE AT BOTH OF OUR SHOPS Plus lots more Cape May memorabilia!
Special gifts for special people.... Waiting for you at MAC’s Museum Shops
The Carriage House Gallery Shop at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St.
T
The Cape May Lighthouse Museum Shop in the Lighthouse Oil House at Cape May Point State Park
T
For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278
MAC MEMBERS GET 10% OFF!
Your purchases benefit on-going restoration and preservation efforts of the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC)
117 August 2013
are offered daily at 11:30am with the Carriage House Café & Tearoom ($35) at the Emlen Physick Estate, directly across the street. Save on tours of the Designer Show House combined with tours of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate ($22). Free parking for the Designer Show House is available on the estate. Owners Ioanna Iliopulos and Tom Cataldo were married in Cape May in 2002, just a few blocks from where their new home now stands. They knew then that Cape May was the perfect setting for a lifetime of memories. Since then, the couple has returned to vacation here frequently, adding to those wonderful memories during every season of the year. They especially appreciate the fact that even though Cape May is a popular destination for visitors, at heart it is a walkable, livable and enjoyable small town. “This is the place we want to live and become a part of the community, and be a part of its ongoing historic preservation,” Ioanna said. The couple are members and strong supporters of the Mid-Atlantic
Center for the Arts & Humanities. “We already feel as though we have roots here,” she said, “and have made friends with many others who live here.” Ioanna and Tom plan to move to Cape May permanently after the home’s use as the 2013 Designer Show House is over.
Proceeds benefit the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities. For information about MAC’s yearround schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, call 609-884-5404 or 800275-4278, or visit the MAC website at www.capemaymac.org.
When was the last time you took a moment for yourself and your health? What would it be like to: • • • • • • •
have more energy? look and feel younger? get rid of mood swings, depression and anxiety? lose that stubborn 5 or 10 last pounds that just won’t come off? eliminate your sugar and carbohydrates addiction and get off the emotional roller-coaster? sort through all the confusing and conflicting information out there? give up “dieting” forever?
Could one conversation change your life? Why not schedule a consultation with me today?
Mary Lou Gartland, R.N., Certified Holistic Health Coach • 609-820-0002 www.holisticapple.com • marylou@holisticapple.com exit zero
118 August 2013
S OLO ART E XHI B I T August 9 - September 4 Featuring new works in oil and watercolor of Cape May Point and the Cove
by Cape May artist, PATRICIA RAINEY The Mad Batter 19 Jackson Street, Cape May
Please join us for an artist’s reception on Sunday, August 11 from 3:00-4:30 Meet the artist and enjoy light refreshments PatriciaRaineyStudios.com raineyart@yahoo.com 609 886-4863 Please visit website for additional show schedule
exit zero
119 August 2013
Inspired by the sea, crafted on the premises
diamond engagement rings • COLORED GEMSTONES FRESHWATER PEARLS • SEALIFE COLLECTION ON-PREMISES JEWELERS • custom work is our specialty FREE CLEANING AND INSPECTION WHILE YOU WAIT
Patricia Jackson Jewelers Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Monday 11-6 & Sunday 12-5 414 BANK STREET, CAPE MAy (609) 884-0323 • PATJACKSONJEWELERS.com EST 1980 • Friend Us on Facebook!
exit zero
120 August 2013
Classic chiller comes to East Lynne
T
he whole neighborhood abounds with twilight superstitions,” wrote Washington Irving in his famous 19thcentury chiller The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Like another of his classic tales, Rip Van Winkle, the “neighborhood” is Tarrytown, NY and the nearby Catskill Mountains in the 1700s. Both stories are being seen in Cape May this summer, thanks to the Equity professional East Lynne Theater Company. Rip Van Winkle was part of an ELTC in-school residency at West Cape May Elementary School, while The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is making its world premiere as part of the mainstage season. The adaptation is by James Rana, who adapted works by Edgar Allan Poe for last season’s ELTC world premiere The Poe Mysteries. After a successful run in Cape May, ELTC’s production traveled to Ocean Professional Theater Company in
Justin Bennett, John Cameron Weber, Suzanne Dawson, Matt Baxter Luceno, Thomas Raniszewski in East Lynne Theater’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Gayle Stahlhuth
~ WANTED ~
Contemporary & Estate Jewelry
YOUR BOAT!!! NOW is the time to Sell Your Boat!! Lots of Buyers... Not Enough Good Boats to Choose From!
CONTACT FRANK WISE
FWise@UnitedYacht.com | 609.408.6857 exit zero
14Kt. gold charm bracelets and antique emerald fish pin
We Buy Diamonds, Gold and Silver! 511 Washington Street Mall, Cape May (next to Fudge K itchen) • (609) 898-8786 Other Location: 15 N. Black Horse Pike, Runnemede • (856) 939-0230
121 August 2013
Barnegat for a week-long run in October. Ghosts abound in Irving’s Tarrytown tales. In Rip Van Winkle, a Dutchman drinks with the ghosts of Captain Henry Hudson and his crew, and falls asleep for twenty years. Before Rip walked into the Catskill Mountains, George III ruled the Colonies. When he awoke, George Washington was President. Irving actually saw the swearing in of Washington in Manhattan, and wrote the first biography of this country’s leader. In The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Major Andre is just one of several ghosts who haunt the area. Andre was captured in Tarrytown and hung for being a British spy. Another ghost also has his roots in the Revolutionary War: a Hessian soldier who was killed by patriots, who now rides at night looking for his head. Ichabod Crane, a Yankee from Connecticut, comes to Tarrytown to teach school. He’s not by nature superstitious, but finds himself in a community that completely believes in ghosts. When Ichabod suddenly disappears, is it the fault of
the Headless Horseman, or something else? In the role of Ichabod Crane is Matt Luceno, who was in ELTC’s It Pays to Advertise. Recently he was in Chemistry of Love at La Mama in NYC. Cast members who play many roles include ELTC favorites Suzanne Dawson (The World of Dorothy Parker), Thomas Raniszewski (The Guardsma), and John Cameron Weber (He and She). New to ELTC are Elisa Pupko and Justin Bennett. Elisa was recently in The Crucible at The Gallery Players in Brooklyn and is a host for About.Com. Justin’s credits include performing for Classical Theatre of Harlem, Missoula Children’s Theatre, Mill Mountain Playhouse, and the New England Shakespeare Festival. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow runs through August 31, with an 8:30pm curtain, and a Wednesday through Saturday schedule. On Friday, August 23, there is an American Sign Language Interpreted performance. Tickets are $30 general admission, $25 for seniors (ages 62 and over), $15 for full-
exit zero
122 August 2013
time students, and anyone ages 12 and under is free. For reservations and information, call ELTC at 609-884-5898 or go online to www.eastlynnetheater.org. Dine at The Washington Inn, 410 Bank Street, Frescos Seafood Trattoria, or Aleathea’s at the Inn of Cape May for ticket-price savings. ELTC’s Tales of the Victorians continues every Thursday at 4:00pm at different Cape May venues. While listening, patrons can sip tea or lemonade and sample tasty treats provided by the venue. August 1 and 22 The Victorian Lace Inn, 901 Stockton Avenue; August 8 The Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean Street; August 15 Peter Shields Inn, 1301 Beach Avenue; August 29 Blue Rose Inn and Restaurant, 653 Washington Street. Cost is $10 and ages 12 and under are free. To make a reservation, contact ELTC at 884-5898. ELTC performs in the historic First Presbyterian Church, 500 Hughes Street, a block off the beach at the corner of Hughes and Decatur in Cape May.
city like Cape May should NOT be without a book store. Thanks to these guys, it isn’t...
REAL BOOKS for REAL PEOPLE.
Cape Atlantic Book Company 421 washington street mall (609) 846-7688 capeatlanticbookcompany.com exit zero
123 August 2013
a cape may moment
The ‘Web Crew’ at Movies on the Beach. Coming attractions: Jaws on August 15 and Swiss Family Robinson on August 22. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
THE WEDDING SHOPPE
Weddings by the Sea
Cape May Sports Memorabilia
Beachy Invitations, Favors, Tiaras, Veils, Jewelry, Sand Sets, Accessories
WEDDING PLANNING
Large selection of high quality vintage sports cards & memorabilia at reasonable prices.
The Beach Wedding Experts Catherine J. Walton, Certified Bridal Consultant
BEACH CEREMONY RENTALS
Chairs, Arbors, Feather Banners, Sand Pour Ceremonies, Decorating
Current Stars, Hall of Famers and Rookies Certified Autographed Items
capemayweddingsbythesea.com catherine@weddings-bythesea.com 139 Broadway, West Cape May 609-884-7900 Open All Year
Vintage Yearbooks, Programs & Publications
Located in Cape May at Antiques Emporia 405 W. Perry Street
MARCANTHONYPHOTO.COM
exit zero
Phone: 609-898-3332 email: SprtsCardsRus@aol.com www.capemaysportsmemorabilia.com
124 August 2013
white
Viviane Rowan Design 6 0 5 H u ghe s St r eet C ape M ay N J 0 8 2 0 4 P hone 6 0 9 8 8 4 - 5 0 6 1
Transcend Come
t h e c lu tt e r .
visit our stylish shop
where elegant and unique home furnishings, g i f ts a n d j e w e l ry r es i d e .
exit zero
125 August 2013
exit zero
126 August 2013
a cape may moment
Artist Terri Amig at the opening of her SOMA NewArt Gallery show, “L’eau and Behold,” which runs through August 18. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
exit zero
127 August 2013
ES
EEV R E N
DIAN
E G A T S N I A M WS O H S N O I NT
E V CON L L A H
IERI
EDD
LM IE PA
ETT
RR Y GA
N
KEN
GHT S I N AY VE D E I E R F ER N N DIA GHT I N DAY IERI R U SAT E PALM I ON D O D N E ER T F YA A D UR SAT PUBLIC E WITH C E FRE ORMAN ETT F PER Y GARR N KEN
exit zero
128 August 2013
S E S S PA
F SS O G A P ENT SEATIN V E ALL TABLE L A I FIC HOICE GE ALL F O THE RVED C PRIVILE 5) Y. RESE PASS R. 6 1 $ E ( P’S NTL O S A ETT P S G B D A E T P NE EL -9 AN ’T GE CIAL ETS I S ’ F F 8 E S O N HE O AN 30 RE T DUKE0IJF - DTAGE NOVS - IT DO , ’ OP’S ORE TH S, YOU T P THE AIN S O. GATE H ’ M WIT T OF M H POP Z NIGH P FOR END TO O - B AND OU ND. WIT ND JAZ T. K ) E 8 E W $3 IJF, IN WEEKE , R&B A ? GET I ( S PASF THE E0 UT THE L, BLUEST. GOT IT S ’ POPB PASS O ROUGHOUCH SOU TO NIGH CLU USIC TH SO M DAY IN H D OF M IN’ WIT DAY AN P BOP S INTO N TUR
T N E V E
DUKE OR POP’S AIN’T YOUR BAG? CHECK OUT OUR SITE FOR PREZ, LADY DAY, AND COUNT’S PASS TOO. WWW.EXIT0JAZZFEST.COM exit zero
129 August 2013
Aviation Museum at the Cape May County Airport A Hands-On, Interactive Museum
INSIDE HISTORIC HANGAR #1
R FUN FOTIRE THE ENILY! FAM
HALF PRICE Child Admission
• Climb a real air-traffic control tower! • Sit in the cockpit! • Learn about the aircraft that helped shape our history! • Coast Guard and 9/11 exhibit area
Supported in part by a grant from New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism
Limit two. With paid adult by mentioning this ad. Not valid with any other offer.
OPEN YEAR ROUND RAIN or SHINE (609) 886-8787
N 39° 00.307’ W 074° 54.553’ 500 Forrestal Road Cape May County Airport Rio Grande, NJ 08242
usnasw.org exit zero
130 August 2013
the COOL CAPE MAY to-do list
T
here’s a new attraction hitting the waters surrounding Cape May this summer... Airboat Adventures, who promise something a little bit different. We chatted with owner/ operator Marc Zitter, who grew up boating, fishing, and scuba diving in this area... What’s an airboat? A flat-bottomed boat, propelled by a large fan in the rear. They’re used throughout the southern states and operate in very shallow waters. Why did you start the business? I’ve always spent a ton of time in the marshes and wetlands of South Jersey for crabbing, fishing, and exploring, and have had my fair share of boats stuck at low tide. Then I went on an airboat ride in the bayous of Louisiana and thought, “Wow, this would be perfect for our marshes!” So I had the boat built, and now I’m giving it a shot. How does it compare with the other boating experiences? I can take people through areas of the marsh that kayaks or jet skis can’t even get to, particularly at low tide. This tour allows passengers to really explore the marsh and have stops along the way to pick up critters, and also it’s a thrilling ride when we are in open waters and pick up the speed. Where do you take people? Is there one planned route? I have some general routes through the marsh, but vary them a lot depending on boat and kayaking traffic. My sunset tour gives my passengers a good look and explanation of our harbor and canal, and then we get to watch the sun set over the bay. Who are typically your customers? Usually families,
Airboats are used primarily in southern waters, where they are perfectly suited for negotiating shallow waters, like the bayous of Louisiana and the Florida Everglades. Now there’s a company in Cape May offering these fun rides through the marshes and wetlands. To contact Airboat Adventures, call (609) 602-2492. Aleksey Moryakov
exit zero
couples, and some thrill-seeking teenagers and guys like me who say “I’ve always wanted to ride these!” Do you do private charters? I do whole-day charters throughout the year for scientists and state researchers who need to access the marshes and mud flats all over Jersey. I also have had extended sunset tours for anniversaries and one for a marriage proposal. I’ve also just had my first charter of a girls’ night out and took them bar-hopping. I am willing to work with the customer to have a ton of fun at a reasonable price. What times are your rides, and how often? I operate daily tours from 8am until sunset, leaving at the top of each hour. I might not be at the docks waiting if I haven’t booked a tour, so it is always best to call beforehand to make sure you get on a tour. How should people dress for the airboat? Whatever’s comfortable for the temperatures, and maybe a sweater for the sunset tours. People might get a very light spray, but nobody gets wet enough to justify certain clothing. Where are you located? Cape May Inlet Marina, the first driveway after the drawbridge heading into Wildwood Crest. We are at the same dock with the awesome folks from the Thundercat, Atlantic Parasail, and Cape Jet Ski. How long into the season will you be operating? I’ll be doing daily tours through late September, and will continue to do charters for wetlands research (and anything else that comes along) through the fall and again in the spring.
131 August 2013
No monkey stuff was involved in making this product. Honest. Experience our best-selling scent! Banana, coconut and lime. Available in sugar scrub, bath salts and soap.
Out-of-this-world Bath Products
526 Washington St. Mall Cape May, NJ 08204 866-400-SOAP aplaceonearth.com
exit zero
132 August 2013
the COOL CAPE MAY to-do list } Kayaking
}surf lesson
Float in the back bays
See what all the fuss is about
WHY: Because it’s a good workout (especially if you paddle board instead) in the serene setting of the wetlands. WHERE: From Aqua Trails at the Nature Center of Cape May, 1600 Delaware Avenue, 609-884-5600, aquatrails.com. WHEN: There are two daily tours of the wetlands, at 9:30am and 1pm, plus sunset tours on Tuesdays and Saturdays. For an extra layer of enchantment, try the full moon tours — makes for a change from the usual date night.
WHY: Because you’re never too old to learn to ride the waves. (Okay, if you’re 96, then maybe you’re too old.) WHERE: Surf anywhere before 10am and after 5:30pm. Otherwise, stick to Poverty or the Cove. WHEN: Why not schedule a lesson with Summer Sun Surf Shop on the Washington Street Mall (609-884-3422), or The Southend Surf Shop on Beach Avenue (609898-0988).
} volleyball
Sweat it out on the beach WHY: Because you get to enjoy the beach AND get a killer workout. If you play front row by the net, you are working your hamstrings, glutes, quads, and calves. When in the back row, you have to stay low to dig up all the hits, so you are still working those same muscles. WHERE: On the sand, across from Cabanas. WHEN: Hone your skills any time; the nets are up all season long.
} parasailing
} biking
Beat the traffic, enjoy the beauty
Enjoy the best views of the cape WHY: There are few better ways to enjoy an aerial view of Cape May, and it’s super-safe. WHERE: East Coast Parasail, at Utsch’s Marina (609-898-8359); and Atlantic Parasail, at Two Mile Landing on Ocean Drive Highway (609-5221869). WHEN: Mid-may through September, see the early morning light refelcting off the water, or take in a sunset from the air... there’s no bad time.
WHY: Because driving in Cape May during the summer is NOT fun, while biking is a pleasure AND a workout. Randomly explore the island or maybe go on a wine trail (see page 22 for details). WHERE: There are four on the island: Bike Shop at Congress Hall (609-884-8421), Cape Island Bike Rentals (609898-7368), Shields Bike Rental (609-898-1818) and Village Bicycle Shop (609-884-8500). WHEN: That’s up to you! } yoga
Strike a pose on the sand
} PHYSICK ESTATE
Tour the ultimate open house WHY: Because the Emlen Physick Estate is a 19th century masterpiece by famed architect Frank Furness. WHERE: At 1048 Washington Street, next to the tennis courts. WHEN: Call 609-8845404 for the complete schedule... there are a lot of options, including a spooky midnight experience!
WHY: Downward dog is more fun on the beach. WHERE: Balance Pilates and Yoga teaches on Jackson Street; Congress Hall, on the beach across from the hotel; 18-year yogini Karen Manette Bosna, at Cape May Point State Park and on the beach; and Andrea Magda, on paddle boards at Harbor View Marina. WHEN: Use yoga to wake up, or relax before bed.
exit zero
133 August 2013
} tennis
Try courting on your vacation WHY: Because the feeling, and sound, of connecting racket with ball on an aesthetically pleasing tennis court is a satisfying experience. WHERE: The lovely William J. Moore Tennis Center, at 1020 Washington Street, has 16 courts. Call 609-8848986. WHEN: Courts open at 7am. Best to call in the morning to book your game. Private lessons cost $60 per hour. } antiquing
Explore a city full of treasures WHY: Antiquing on an island full of historic buildings is so right. WHERE: West End Garage on Perry; Antiques Emporium on West Perry; Cape May Antique Center at the harbor; Out of the Past on West Myrtle; plus several scattered on Broadway, in West Cape May. WHEN: Any time you want a break from the beach — or when it’s raining.
the COOL CAPE MAY to-do list fishing. Across the road, at South Jersey Marina, join a charter trip or rent a private boat. WHEN: Any time. PS: South Jersey Marina’s Mid-Atalntic $500,000, the world’s richest marlin tournament, takes place August 18-23.
} vintage village
Watch history come to life WHY: Because Historic Cold Spring Village is a wonderful way for the whole family to see how folks lived in the 18th and 19th centuries. WHERE: On 22 beautiful, wooded acres at 720 Route 9, three miles from downtown Cape May. Call 609-898-2300, or visit hcsv.org. WHEN: There are themed weekends all through the season, from antiquing to Civil War weekends. There’s a Community Open House Weekend on June 1-2 when there is free admission.
} fishing
} lighthouse
Catch your own dinner
Take the stairs for an epic view
WHY: Because being on the water is a calming experience... that can end in a very tasty meal. WHERE: Every year, 100,000 people make their way through the Miss Chris Marina, many of them looking to go
WHY: Because skipping this landmark would be like going to New York and cold-shouldering the Empire State Building. It’s beautifully maintained, and the views are stunning. Plus you’ll get a little bit of a workout
from climbing the 199 steps. WHERE: In beautiful Cape May Point State Park. Take Lighthouse Avenue off Sunset Boulevard. WHEN: Open seven days in the season, evenings too. For more information on romantic moonlit climbs, call 609884-5404.
} ferry
Visit Delaware just for the day WHY: Although we don’t encourage you to make a habit of leaving Cape May, taking a trip across the Delaware Bay can be a pretty magical experience, especially if you’re watching a pod of dolpins while sipping a glass of wine on a sundappled evening. WHERE: The Cape MayLewes Ferry terminal is at the end of Ferry Road in North Cape May. WHEN: The ferry runs several times a day during the season. Visit capemaylewesferry.com to check schedules.
Fine & Decorative Arts Auction Local Artists Saturday, September 7, 2013 Preview from 6pm Ocean View Resort Campground 2555 Route 9, Ocean View NJ Hors d’oeuvres & wine/beer bar Tickets $20 to benefit the
Cape May County Museum
For tickets: visit cmcmuseum.org or call 609-465-3535
exit zero
134 August 2013
State-of-the-art spa services in a relaxing, tranquil environment for the perfect escape Best of South Jersey - NJ Monthly
607 Jefferson Street, Cape May • 609.898.1003 • capemaydayspa.com
An All Suite Historic B&B
Victorian Lace Inn Located in the historic district, convenient to shopping & dining. Four Doors From the Beach. Enjoy ocean views and breezes from our porch. Breakfast served daily. Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2012 & 2013 901 stockton avenue, cape may • (609) 884-1772 • victorianlaceinn.com
the COOL CAPE MAY to-do list } carriage ride
} county zoo
Travel the streets in grand style
Imagine you’re on the savanna
WHY: It’s such an obviously tourist-type thing to do, but so what? It’s also the best way to see the historic district. And that clip-clopping sound is so good for the soul. WHERE: Pick up your horse from Cape May Carriage Company at Washington Commons, across from the mall. WHEN: Every day during the season, from 10am to 10pm. If you want to layer on the romance (and avoid the heat of the day), twilight is probably your best option.
WHY: Because — ready for this? — Cape May County Park and Zoo was voted the third best zoo in America by TripAdvisor last year. It has more than 200 species on 80 beautiful acres, including an African savanna.
} lookout tower
Experience the wartime cape WHY: For decades, the former World War II lookout tower (used for surveillance on German submarines) was nothing more than an iconic sentinel on the island. In 2008, the Mid-Atlantic
Center for the Arts and Humanities developed a museum there. WHERE: At the end of Sunset Boulevard. WHEN: Open every day during the season. Become a charter member of the Friends of the WWII Lookout Tower, and you’ll get unlimited free admission.
exit zero
136 August 2013
WHERE: Exit 11 on the Garden State Parkway. WHEN: Open every day, 10am-4:45pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome (and needed!) } eco tour
Get up close with the sea life WHY: Because with the Original Skimmer Salt March Safari, you can explore the area’s normally inaccessible wildlife and plant life. WHERE: On placid inlet waters, where there’s slim chance of a sea-sick safari goer. WHEN: The boat sails seven days a week. Call 609-884-3100.
ith a flai w t i r... y a S by Air!
Atlantic City to Cape May
Aerial Ads don’t Cost... They Pay!
Your Premium Child Care Sitting Service Professional & Screened Sitters Since 1998
609-465-0840
sittersattheshore.com Owned and operated by a NJ certified Elementary Teacher
2013 Yoga on the Beach Only $5 per "Yoga On the Beach" class
Plenty of free parking!
Barbara Tomalino
Visit yogacapemay.com for a complete schedule.
609-886-9090
Or, for more information, contact Karen at 609.827.8886 or visit yogacapemay.com or call Cape May City Rec. Dept. at 609.884.9565
www.paramountair.com Part of the Cape May Community since 1945 exit zero
at Cape May Point State Park/Lighthouse and on the beach behind Cape May Convention Hall.
Rain or Shine - there is Shelter from the Storm with Ocean Views
137 August 2013
the COOL CAPE MAY to-do list } dolphin watching
} mini golf
} 18-hole golf
Cruise with the coolest creatures
Take a silly game very seriously
Play a course you won’t forget
WHY: Because it never gets old seeing these beautiful creatures. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a sight of a humpback whale. WHERE: Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center, at Utsch’s Marina. Call 609-898-0055 or buy tickets at capemaywhalewatch.com. WHEN: There are four tours every day (lasting from two to three hours), starting at 9:30am and ending at 6pm with the Sunset Dolphin Watch, which includes free pizza and hot dogs.
WHY: Because it’s still one of the best ways to give the whole family a laugh (while trying your best to beat them). WHERE: Cape May Miniature Golf on Perry Street (which has the added attraction of Cocomoe’s Ice Cream Parlor); Ocean Putt on Beach and Jackson; Stockton Golf on Beach and Howard; and Sunset Beach, Sunset Boulevard. WHEN: You can be the best judge, but we recommend building up an appetite by playing pre-dinner.
WHY: Because Cape May National Golf Club is a 50-acre sanctuary where you will hear birds singing, waterfowl landing in the lakes, bass leaping, ospreys circling overhead then diving to capture a fish for breakfast. And the course is pretty great, too! It’s been acclaimed by magazines across the country. WHERE: Two miles north of Cape May, on Route 9 at Florence Avenue. Call 609-884-1563 or visit cmngc.com. WHEN: Course is open daily.
} sunset beach
Taste a slice of Americana WHY: Because it has become a Cape May tradition to visit this gem of a site and listen to “God Bless America” by Katie Smith over the tannoy while a veteran’s flag is lowered. Plus,
there is some great shopping, mini golf and a snack bar. WHERE: Aim for the flashing red light at the end of Sunset Boulevard. WHEN: In the morning, shop and grab breakfast; play mini golf in the afternoon; but don’t miss the aforementioned sunset ceremony.
The BEST way to spoil yourself.
circle of light H o l i st i c & M a ss a g e
We bring massage to you! 600 Park Blvd. West Cape May 884-4499 exit zero
Offering Therapeutic Massage, Reiki & Sound Healing Call Terri for an appointment... 609 457 6311
138 August 2013
Tours Daily!
9:30am kayak 9:00am SUP 1:00pm kayak
Sunset kayaking Tue. & Sat. Nights
Renting Kayaks & SUPs all day every day!
Full Moon tours August 20,21,22 6:30 pm
All Tours and Rentals at the Nature Center
Stand-Up Paddle Boards!
kayak nature tours, sales & rentals
N ature C enter , 1600 D elaware A venue , C ape M ay (609) 884-5600 • aquatrails . com exit zero
139 August 2013
the COOL CAPE MAY to-do list } MOREY’S PIERS
} birding
Enjoy the best rides of your life
See something really amazing
WHY: Because the Cape May Experience isn’t complete without a visit to the iconic Wildwood boardwalk and, particularly, to one of three piers owned by Morey’s. There are more than 100 rides and attractions and two world-class waterparks WHERE: Exit 4A on the Garden State Parkway or, better still, drive via idyllic Ocean Drive. Visit online at moreyspiers. com. WHEN: We favor an early evening on the boardwalk.
WHY: Cape May is the capital of the known birding universe. WHERE: A great birding bonus? Taking in the island’s most beautiful spots... by trail or boat! WHEN: See the Cape May Bird Observatory’s schedule of tours at njaudubon.org. Or call 609-846-3807 for the Young Birders Club.
} aviation museum
Discover a hangar of war planes WHY: Because at Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum you will see a collection of aircraft dating back to the Second World War.
The collection includes an F-14 Tomcat and an AH-1 Cobra helicopter, used in Vietnam. WHERE: In a hangar at Cape May County Airport, on Forrestal Road. Call 609-886-8787, visit usnasw.org. WHEN: Open daily from 9am to 5pm.
} ALPACA FARM
Hang with cute, cuddly animals WHY: Because the animals at Bay Springs Farm are so cute and
Superb technical ability and gentle treatment combine for an experience your mouth will enjoy!
Louis J. Feldman, Dds 741 Washington Street, Cape May (609) 884-4260 drlouisfeldman.com
exit zero
140 August 2013
curious. Your kids will love them. Plus, you can treat yourself to some world-class woven goodies in the alpaca shop. WHERE: A couple miles west of downtown on beautiful, rustic New England Road. Call 609-884-0563, visit bayspringsfarmalpacas. com. WHEN: Only open Friday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
ONE YEAR SPECIAL - $34.99/ Month
Includes T-Shirt, Gift Cert. for Massage, 3 month freeze option (12 month membership agreement)
Over 6o group exercise classes per week, including: yoga ZUMBA crossfit boot camp stretch Meet our interns! pilates Bobbi Beers age 22 spin boxing & Ryan Stamerro age 24 boxercising interval training and more... Graduated from Salisbury State University Exercise Science and Dance Wants to be a professional dancer and ultimately a physical therapist. Proud grad of LCMR!
Temple University, working towards a degree in Communications Certified with AAAI as a personal trainer Wants to coach tri-athletes in running and fitness performance Graduate of Council Rock South-Pa.
DAILY • WEEKLY MONTHLY RATES 3845 Bayshore Road, North Cape May • 609.898.3800 exit zero
141 August 2013
a cape may moment
The staff of Oyster Bay restaurant, which now boasts a fabulous new bar — a great place for happy hour or bar food. Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov
relax rejuvenate repeat
Accent On BEAUTY consistently voted best day spa
609.884.7040 128 sunset blvd. west cape may accentonbeautycapemay.com
Open 7 Days!
exit zero
142 August 2013
S L A I C E P S WEEKLY MONDAY Piers and Pizza - $29
Double-the-Fun THURSDAY
Start your week with a slice of Pizza at Jumbo’s or Joe’s Fish Co., a regular soft drink and a spin on ALL THREE PIERS with a ride wristband.
Double your pleasure as the MOR-EZ ticket card goes twice as far on our amusement rides. Ride for only half the tickets until 6pm. Also, look for great Double-the-Fun offers at many of our games and food outlets.
Valid Mondays from 1pm until 6pm. Waterpark admission is not included in this package. Adventure Pier opens at 4pm. Ghost Ship opens at 5pm.
Valid Thursdays from 1pm until 6pm excluding July 4. Adventure Pier open at 4pm. Ghost Ship opens at 5pm.
TUESDAY Special - $24
FRIDAY Splashtacular - $40
Our best deal on Pier Ride Wristbands! Loop, spin and swing until you can’t take it anymore on ALL THREE PIERS.
Splash into the weekend at one of our beachfront waterparks, Raging Waters or Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club AND go wild on ALL THREE PIERS.
Valid Tuesdays from 1pm until 6pm. Waterpark admission is not included in this package. Adventure Pier opens at 4pm. Ghost Ship opens at 5pm.
Expires at 6pm. Available beginning July 19. Valid Fridays from 9:30am until 6pm. Adventure Pier opens at 4pm. Ghost Ship opens at 5pm.
XTREME Ride WEDNESDAY - $34
Fired Up FRIDAY NIGHTS - $20
Receive a Pier Ride Wristband valid until 6pm PLUS two Xtreme rides of your choice.
Light up your night by riding the rides underneath Coca-Cola’s weekly fantastic fireworks display!
Available beginning June 19. Valid Wednesdays from 1pm until 6pm. Waterpark admission is not included in this package. Xtreme rides open at 1pm. Adventure Pier opens at 4pm. Ghost Ship opens at 5pm.
Valid Fridays from 10:30pm until closing. Fireworks each Friday night at 10pm from June 28 to August 30.
Waterpark Specials Morning Special - $29 Swim and slide from park opening until 12:30pm.
After 3pm Special - $29 Sold after 3pm. Valid until park closes. Closing times and operating hours are subject to change at anytime based on various factors including weather and crowd conditions. All specials are subject to operating hours. Visit www.MoreysPiers.com for up-to-date operating hours and complete details on all of our specials. Some restrictions apply.
Make family memories that will last a lifetime. MOREYSPIERS.COM • 609.522.3900 • WILDWOOD, NJ
exit zero
143 August 2013
Come! Join the Fun!
Saturday, September 28 - 8am-12noon Rain Date September 29
On the cape may Promenade Register near Convention Hall Donation $1 per leg ($2/person, $4/dog) Benefits K-9 Protective Vests for CMC Sheriff’s Dept. & area dog training programs Sponsored by Cape May County Dog Obedience Training Club Email CMCDOTC@comcast.net
CAPE MAY
MODEL TRAINS
current Hours
10:00 am - 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Monday thru Friday. Saturdays 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sundays 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Call for additional hours on days with inclement weather 609-432-1690.
525 Elmira, Cape May
from washington street mall, go left on ocean, cross broad; we are 100 yards on the right.
25 tracks on 5 layouts.
Featuring Thomas the Tank Engine, Polar Express, Spongebob, Christmas village & More!
exit zero
Here is a handy guide that tells you the what, when and why of trolley tours. For even MORE information, get in touch with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities, the local cultural behemoth which runs these tours, along with many, many other fun activities. Visit them online at capemaymac.org. Behind the Walls Under the Crawls Where It Goes: Throughout Cape May. How Long It Lasts: 60 minutes. When It Runs: Mondays at 3:30pm, Wednesdays at 2:30pm. What It Is: See Cape May from a builder’s perspective. Sewage and drains, water supply and heat, structure and foundations. Discover who had toilets and who didn’t! Learn how things really worked on this new, one-hour, guided trolley tour. Who It’s For: You like to tinker with things — your garage or your local hardware store are favorite spots. Children’s Trolley Ride Where It Goes: Through the streets of Cape May. How Long It Lasts: 30 minutes. When It Runs: Sundays through Thursdays at 4pm. What It Is: Funny, informational, smart-alecky, like your kids. Who It’s For: Ages 3-7, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents or guardians accompanied by kids aged 3-7.
CMMT.ORG • 609-432-1690
fun for children of all ages! over
The definitive trolley guide
Ghosts of the Lighthouse Where It Goes: Begins and ends at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, traveling through parts of West Cape May to the Cape May Lighthouse. How Long It Runs: One hour. When It Runs: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:45pm (no tours August 20). What It Is: Get spooky stories on the way to the lighthouse, accounts of ghosts at the tower from a costumed guide, and a chance to climb to the top. Who It’s For: Those who know what an “orb” is — or would like to. Gaslight Where It Goes: Through Cape May’s historic district. How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes. When It Runs: Mondays; Wednesdays, and Fridays at 8:30pm; and Sundays at 9pm.
144 August 2013
Your ticket to fun on the water this summer! ! G N I T A O JET B
east coast jet boat adventure
1121 Route 109 @ Utsch’s Marina, Cape May « (609) 898-8754 « • eastcoastjetboat.com
! G N I N N WAVERU
G!
LIN I A S A R PA
east coast parasail, jet ski & waverunner 1121 Rte 109 @ Utsch’s Marina, Cape May (609) 898-8754 • eastcoastparasail.com exit zero
145 August 2013
Historic Hereford Inlet
} the definitive cape may trolley guide
Lighthouse and Gardens ~ 1874 ~
National and State Register of Historic Places • Museum • Gift Shop • Award Winning Gardens • Open Year Round Please call (609) 522-4520 for days and hours
Enjoy architectural gems such as the Stockton Row houses on Gurney Street as part of the co o Gaslight l c a p eTrolley m a yTour.
What It Is: Ladies in long dresses and their gallant suitors, tea parties and dances; sweat and stink and tuberculosis and ladies of ill-repute; this was Victorian Cape May. An engaging gaslit trolley tour with local stories and architecture. Who It’s For: Anyone curious how Victorians survived in all that clothing during the summer.
Located at 1st and Central Avenues, North Wildwood www.herefordlighthouse.org
Ghosts of Cape May Where It Goes: Through the streets of Cape May. How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes. When It Runs: Every evening; hours vary. What It Is: What was that?! That was the undead of Cape May come back to settle their scores. Just be grateful that you’re in a trolley with an experienced guide to tell you about the many hauntings discovered by the Ghost Writer, Craig McManus. Who It’s For: Those who enjoy a good ghost story. Historic District Where It Goes: Through Cape May’s historic district. How Long It Lasts: About 45 minutes. When It Runs: Daily; hours vary. What It Is: It’s beautiful. It’s charming. Cape May — one of the few places you can wander through and feel that it’s more than 100 years ago. Tour guides will explain how and why it survived. Who It’s For: Anyone who finds Cape May charming. Insider Tip: Combine this tour with a guided tour of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate and save $2.
Blow Dry • Cuts SETS • UPDOS Color Foils • Low Lites Perms • Manicures Pedicures
Mansions by the Sea Where It Goes: Along Beach Avenue, through the early 20th century East Cape May development areas How Long It Lasts: About 40 minutes. When It Runs: Daily; hours vary. What It Is: See how the rich lived in the early 20th century. When $1 million really meant something — before income tax. Also, see new beachfront second homes. Who It’s For: Anyone who’s curious how the one percent lives. Tales of Terror Trolley Ride Where It Goes: Along the streets of Cape May. How Long It Lasts: 30 minutes. When It Runs: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:45pm and Saturdays at 8:30pm. What It Is: Scary stories on streets lit by flickering gaslight.
1400 Texas Avenue Cape May (609) 884-3011
exit zero
146 August 2013
exit zero
147 August 2013
} the definitive cape may trolley guide
The Peter Shields Inn is one of many impressive beachfront properties on Cape May’s east end... see Mansions by the Sea tour
Who It’s For: People who are a bit… twisted. Welcome to Cape May Where It Goes: Throughout Cape May. How Long It Lasts: About 45 minutes. When It Runs: Daily; hours vary. What It Is: Best introduction to Cape May for first-timers. Find the hidden gems and the little-known treasures. Who It’s For: First-timers to Cape May. Bienvenue á Cape May — en Francais Ou: Tout Cape May. Combien De Minutes: 45 minuits, Quand: Chaques vendredi, jusqu’à le 16 Août, a 4:30pm. Qu’est Que C’est: Voila l’introduction parfait a Cape May. Decouvrez les activités, les spectacles, et les expositions. Pour Qui: Particulièrement pour nos visiteurs Francophone. Autre Chose: Visitez le musée Emlen Physick Estate — en Francais.
Guardians of the Cape Where It Goes: Along the Cape May beachfront and into the US Coast Guard Training Center How Long It Lasts: Sixty minutes. When It Runs: Sunday, August 4 at 6:45pm. What It Is: A very limited and exclusive opportunity to visit the highly secure TRACEN Cape May, the only US Coast Guard Training facility in the United States. Who It’s For: Anyone inspired by patriotic music and parades … or dashing men (and women) in uniform. Don’t Forget To Bring: A photo ID. It’s required at the base. Lighthouse New Moon Climb Where It Goes: From the Washington Street Mall down Sunset Boulevard to the Cape May Lighthouse and back How Long It Lasts: Two hours. When It Runs: Friday, August 2 at 8:45pm. What It Is: Enjoy the view from the top of the lighthouse when the dark sky lets the stars sparkle their brightest. Who It’s For: Stargazers… adventurers… romantics… lovers… anyone with a healthy sense of wonder.
exit zero
148 August 2013
exit zero
149 August 2013
TICKETS 609
770-8311
Robert Shackleton Playhouse 405 Lafayette Street Cape May, New Jersey CapeMay Stage.org Tickets also available at
Boeing Boeing by Marc Camoletti
translated by Beverley Cross & Francis Evans directed by Roy Steinberg MADCAP COMEDY
“Not wives! Fiancées. Fiancées are much friendlier than wives. And you don’t need all that many. I do very well with three.” This mile-high comedy goes wildly off course for the lothario Bernard, as he juggles three stewardess-fiancées from three different countries working three different airlines. His scheme to keep them from ever meeting is “mathematical, geometrical, and poetic.” They’ll never be able to cross paths. Ever.
July 31– Sept 13, 2013
exit zero
150 August 2013
V Dr. Arlene Hughes Gorny Optometric Physician
We provide old-fashioned, professional, personal service in a quaint setting
NJ#5336
937 Columbia Avenue 898-0800
TO#663
exit zero
151 August 2013
How to explore Cape May wine country Cape May Winery The Craig family is already well known among south Jersey foodies... they’re the folks who brought The Pelican Club, Lucky Bones and The Washington Inn to this island. Now, they’re building a reputation within the wine world. The operation — 150 acres strong — has grown quickly over the past two decades. The tasting room, a mere shed in the beginning, has been transformed into a large, year-round, multi-purpose building with meeting rooms for small parties, a second-floor deck overlooking the vineyard, a barrel room, and a number of tasting bars. The newest addition? A cedar-paneled great room with 20-foot ceilings and a beautiful fireplace to enjoy while indulging in good drink and good conversation with friends. Be sure to check out Grill Night, happening every Wednesday between
The goal at Cape May Winery is to help find a wine for every preference. Why not taste-test from the 20 different styles they produce in front of their new fireplace in the cozy Barrel Tasting Room?
exit zero
152 August 2013
through September 11. Beginning at 6:30pm, the event includes a buffet provided by the Washington Inn. Cape May Winery is located on 711 Townbank Road in North Cape May. Visit capemaywinery.com, or call 609-884-1169.
a cape may moment
Victorian Lace Inn
The Pillon family from Pittsburgh enjoyed a reunion on the Philadelphia beach last week. Nicole Dever
RIDE with MARK
The perfect company for ALL your vacation needs!
Cape May Bike Tours
property management Cleaning, landscaping, property inspections, emergency services concierge services child care, pet services, dinner reservations, spa and salon appointments, personal errands, photography
One call does it all!
Mark leads a variety of bike tours. Visit us online for tour details, dates & times... or call 609.780.7088. Offering private guided rides as well! exit zero
Property Management & Concierge Services
1400 Texas Avenue, Unit 2, Cape May (609) 884-8444• www.wkrservices.com
153 August 2013
Willow Creek Winery A short bike ride from the center of town, through the rustic, rural, totally charming streets of West Cape May, will land you in the middle of a stunning plantation estate. On breezy, sun-dappled afternoons be sure to take advantage of the winery’s spacious red brick patio, an ideal place for savoring the sights and sounds of nearby wetlands and woods... and the tasty snacks, of course. Think cheese from Seaside Cheese and breads by Rea’s Farm. Willow Creek Winery is located at 168 Stevens Street in West Cape May. Visit willowcreekwinerycapemay.com for more information, or call 609770-8782. Hawk Haven Railroad Avenue, where Hawk Haven is located, starts out as Seashore Road and then, inexplicably, changes names. You’ll want to know this because you don’t want to be late for Sangria Sunday (which is exactly what it sounds like — a lazy day of drinking sangria in a beautiful setting, complete with catering by Cape May Fish Market). Hawk Haven sits on a third-generation,
Hawk Haven owner Todd Wuerker planted his first grapevines, cabernet sauvignon, in 1997, before he was even of the legal drinking age. Now, he consults for two other local vineyards.
former dairy farm owned and operated for the last 15 years by Todd and Kenna Wuerker. Contributing to the transformation of the nine-acre space — from milk to pino, cabernet, and chardonnay over the last 15 years — is a European-style cedar and stone tasting room, complete with Italian tile floors. Although the operation is very 21st century, much of the architecture lends a dis-
A healthy pet has lots to smile about.
TOP NOTCH A TREE CARE B ISA-Certified Arborist Matthew Notch Fully Licensed & Insured Free Estimates | Reasonable Rates
CONSULTING PRUNING & PLANTING CABLING & BRACING REMOVALS
427 James Street, Erma
481-7420 exit zero
Robert Panaccio, VMD Robert Moffatt, VMD Nancy Reilly, VMD 694 Petticoat Creek Lane, Cape May • 884-1729 • www.capemayvet.com
154 August 2013
The Real Estate Market is Alive and Well! Thinking of Signing, Just Call Ryan!
S
D L O
RYAN GRIFFIN, SALESPERSON | CELL: 609.602.5578 EMAIL:rgriffin@desatnickrealestate.com DESATNICK REAL ESTATE, LLC 1001 Lafayette Street, Cape May OFFICE: 609.884.1300 | FAX: 609.884.1304 | desatnickrealestate.com
C astline Realty Search Sale & Rental properties online at www.CoastlineRealty.com
429 Third Avenue, West Cape May. Charming 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home with open floor plan, screened in porch, possibility of making a 3rd bedroom. Well maintained and sold furnished. $375,000
607 Crystal Avenue, Cape May Point. Stunning beachfront custom built home with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, screened porch with ocean view, 2 car garage, and high end amenities throughout. $1,695,000
1232 Virginia Avenue, Cape May. Well maintained Village Greene Twin with 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, deck, covered porch, large back yard. Being sold tastefully furnished. $390,000
227 Beach Avenue, #502 The Capers, Cape May 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo located beach front with ocean view, great rental history, being sold furnished. Close to restaurants and shopping. $489,000
Call us at 609.884.5005 1400 Texas Avenue, Cape May N.J. 08204
Carol A. Menz, Broker/Owner exit zero
155 August 2013
tinctive going-back-in-time feel. And an outdoor crash pad — the area where grapes would literally have been “crushed” underfoot to release juices in days gone by — is now a site for eating, drinking, being merry, and enjoying live music. Saturday on the Crush Pad is a popular event which features the sweet and savory offerings of Crespella Gourmet Crepes. Hawk Haven is located at 600 South Railroad Avenue. Visit hawkhavenvineyard.com, or call 609-846-7347. Turdo Winery Turdo is a boutique winery run by Sal Turdo, his wife Sara and their son, Luca. Sal worked in a vineyard in Sicily from age 11 and, after years as an electrical contractor in north Jersey, wanted to get back to his passion. Like many of our area wineries, Turdo has won a batch of awards, but Sal is proudest of the Silver Award given to his Nebbiolo at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. It’s a special product... they only bottle 25 cases per year. So what’s their secret? “We get a very
high sugar content in our grapes by growing only one vine per plant, where usually it’s two,” Sal said. Meaning? The plant can pay more attention to caring for the grapes it does have, meaning your wine is full of TLC. Turdo Winery is located at 3911 Bayshore Road in North Cape May. Visit turdovineyards. com, or call 609-884-5591. Jessie Creek Winery and Inn The vines here are babies, only having been planted in 2002, but Jesse Creek Winery shares property with an 1800s bed and breakfast and a wedding/event space, all overseen by owner Art Reale. The hall/tasting room is an Amish-built pole barn that sits behind the residence on 10-acres of green lawn and old shade trees. There are four acres of vines just to the side of which Art, a one-time deep sea rescue diver with the US Navy, speaks proudly. There’s a fire burning every night outdoors, so bring your favorite person and share a bottle under the stars. And don’t forget about Fridays, when sunsets over the vineyard are the main event, and live enter-
tainment plays from 5-9pm. Jesse Creek Winery is located at 1 North Route 47, Cape May Court House. Visit jessiecreekwinery.com, or call 609-536-2092. Natali’s In addition to more traditional varietals (cabernet, merlot, sauvignon blanc) Natali’s has a robust selection of not-too-sweet, perfectly balanced fruit wines, including blueberry and banana flavors. Tours are offered every day, and don’t be surprised if you come across Al or his partner Ray Pensari working hard in the vineyard. And bring your mutt along, too... they’re welcome here. Bocce lovers in the family? There’s a court on site! Other things to look out for include Monday Music in the Vines, from 5-8pm; Wine it Down Wednesdays, from 5-8pm; and tastings and educational sessions on Saturdays from 11am-1pm, in the oh-so-cozy tasting room. Natali’s is located at 221 North Delsea Drive in Cape May Court House. Visit nataliwines.com, or visit 609-465-0075.
Contact Us For All of Your Sale and Rental Real Estate Needs! Cape May Court House, NJ
(609) 465-6670 Serving all of South Jersey
Save energy AND money. It’s a win-win.
Sol Needles Real Estate 512 Washington Street Mall, Cape May, NJ 08204 609-884-8428 1-800-441-8428 www.cbcapemay.com Lynn Gleeson / William Bezaire, owners
exit zero
156 August 2013
Theresa Senico
ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES
Quality service... with that personal touch
Apex
Realty, Inc.
Dedication... Excellence... Professionalism
CHARMING CEDAR SALTBOX COTTAGE 773 Stimpson Lane, Cold Spring 4 Bedrooms - 1.5 Baths gas f/p, 2 level deck, potting shed,workshop/storage shed, breathtaking gardens. $599,900
MINT CONDITION CUSTOM HOME 1131 Cape May Avenue Cape May 6 Bedrooms - 3 Baths multi zone heat/air, gas fireplace, garage. $1,379,000
EXCEPTIONAL COTTAGE 908 Wenonah Avenue Cape May 4 Bedrooms - 3.5 Baths dual zone cac, garage. $789,900
MAINTENANCE-FREE HOME 709 Leaming Avenue North Cape May 3 Bedrooms - 2 Baths cac, h/w fl, storage attic. $219,900
COMPLETELY RENOVATED 29 Park Avenue Del Haven 2 Bedrooms - 1 Bath rear deck, o/s shower, storage shed. $156,900
JUST LISTED QUIET AREA 912 Philadelphia Avenue Cape May 3 Bedrooms - 2.5 Baths oversized corner lot, cac, side deck. $599,000
2505 bayshore, villas (609) 408-4655 800-894-2739 ext. 103 www.jerseyshorehomesbytheresasenico.com
JOE B. SANTANIELLO PRESSURE CLEANING “Joe B. By The Sea”
Asphalt Driveway Seal Coating All Exterior Pressure Cleaning Dryer Vent Cleaning Window Cleaning Gutter Cleaning Boat Cleaning
Fully Bonded & Insured Free Estimates
609-827-WASH Breakwater Plaza, NCM
Here to Keep New Jersey Clean!
LIC. # 13VH06841800 25 YEARS RETIRED PHILADELPHIA FIREMAN
exit zero
JERSEY CAPE REALTY 739 Washington Street, Cape May (609) 884-5800 www.jerseycaperealty.com
157 August 2013
Cape May Fire Department 712 Franklin Street, Cape May New Jersey
Buy a Brick Program Makes a Great Gift!
Help The Cape May Fire Department raise money AND own a piece of Cape May history! Personalize your own paver! These pavers are available in 9x9 and 8x4 inches and will make up a new walkway and flagpole courtyard. Memorial bricks.... • • • • • •
Honor a loved one Support an honorable cause Keep a memory alive Serve as great gifts Commemorate significant dates Preserve our history Consider a memorial brick today!
Purchases are tax deductible. To learn more or get an order form for your bricks, please call the Cape May Fire Department at (609) 884-9512.
exit zero
158 August 2013
exit zero
159 August 2013
the rules of surfing... for beginners By Diane Stopyra
Don’t be a kook on the beach. That’s well-trodden surf lingo for nincompoop. Onshore kook behavior includes, but is not limited to: rhapsodizing about how gnarly the waves are while wearing a neon wetsuit and/or rash guard, but never actually getting in the water; driving up and down Beach Avenue to ‘check the waves,’ but never actually getting in the water; carrying a brand-spanking-new board from break to break, but never actually getting in the water. Don’t be a kook in the line-up. There are rules in the ocean, just as there are rules on the road. (Maybe that’s a bad example, considering how many of us seem oblivious to the latter — we’re looking at you, woman-whopushes-a-stroller-into-the-street-without-looking.) Nevertheless, you must pay attention in the water, unless you want an embarrassing earful from in-the-know groms. Closest to the peak gets priority. exit zero
Look like an idiot, and then get over it. You’re going to fall, and it won’t be pretty. Ways to minimize the wipe-outs: Get the right board; the longer it is, the easier it will be to learn. And practice your pop-up — don’t look at your feet, aim to have them land more than shoulder-width apart, and bend your knees... more. Don’t ditch your stick. Your board is made of potential bone-thrashing fiberglass, complete with potential skin-slicing skegs... let go of it because you’re worried about getting yourself safely through the impact zone, and you risk pulverizing a fellow surfer. And for goodness sake, wear a leash. Don’t be that guy. You know, the one always so keen on saying to other surfers: “You just missed it!” Or: “You should have been here an hour ago!” Pray for surf. This is the most fun you’re ever going to have.
160 August 2013
Plans for independent contractors, families, individuals and groups at competitive rates.
610-222-9400 www.millennium-tpa.com
DRAMA... PASSION... EXOTIC SETTINGS... GREAT REVIEWS... FABULOUS FOOD
410 Bank Street
O NE o f A M E R I C A ’ S T O P R E S T A U R A N T S — Z a g a t 2 0 1 3 410 Bank Street Reservations: 609.884.2127 410 Bank Street, Cape May
Frescos
V O T E D B E S T I T A L I A N R E S T A U R A N T i n S O U T HE R N NE W J E R S EY Frescos Reservations: 609.884.0366 412 Bank Street, Cape May
ON BANK STREET... PARKING AVAILABLE... DINNER NIGHTLY FROM 5PM