08037 Hammonton | Winter 2022

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N TO MO HAM WINTER 2022

Hammonton DATE NIGHT IN

IN THIS ISSUE:

Take a Bite at the Funky Cow Tomasello Winery Hammonton Arts Center ...and more!

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08037

Letter from the

PUBLISHER: W elcome to the inaugural edition of 08037, a magazine dedicated to the lifestyle and community of Hammonton.

We are NMG media group, proudly providing over 40 publications within New Jersey and Pennsylvania, specializing in original local content. When the opportunity to reach the town of Hammonton arose the obvious answer was a resounding yes.

There is so much to explore with its bustling main street, local wineries, eateries and organizations. Our goal is to connect you, the reader, with dynamic people and businesses in the community. Come with us as we take an inside look at what is happening locally throughout the seasons.

Be sure to check out Hammonton

WINTER 2022 ISSUE

Happenings (pg. 20) for a look ahead at what’s coming soon.

I want to take this moment to give special thanks to my team and our contributors for their dedication in launching 08037. To our advertisers: thank you for starting this new adventure with us.

We are so excited to bring one-ofkind content directly to your door and look forward to future issues.

I hope you enjoy this first edition and look forward to seeing you in the summer.

Yours Truly,

COO

PERRY CORSETTI VP OF SALES

ARLENE REYES PUBLISHER

BRITTANY ROUGHT EDITOR

MACKENZIE FITCHETT ACCOUNT MANAGERS

KAREN RODIER TATIANA TABILE KELLY TAYLOR MARKETING CONSULTANTS

MEGAN MUDD

Brittany Rought Publisher

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

KIMBERLY KRAUSS

Winter 2022

CONTRIBUTERS:

Kathy Chang

Lauren Lamantia

Jamie Giambrone

08037 is a publication of Newspaper Media Group, 130 Twinbridge Drive Pennsauken, NJ 08110 (856)779-3800 x6920 08108@newspapermediagroup.com

In this Issue:

Wine With Us: Tomasello Winery 6 Valentine’s Day in Hammonton 8 Hammonton Arts Center 14 Take a Bite at the Funky Cow 16 Local History: Eagle Theater 18 Hammonton Happenings 20

On the Cover: Jasmine Farrell WINTER 2022

Chris Isaac

Taylor Lier 4

Hammonton couple Nico Decesero and Kelbie Brown, manager of Tales of the Olive.

COVER PHOTO BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

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08037

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WINTER 2022

WINE with us

BY: TAYLOR LIER

W

ine has been a staple at many family gatherings, social events, dinner parties and other special occasions for generations. Whether it is a glass of Merlot or a bottle of Chardonnay, it takes just the right grapes, barrels and necessary ingredients to get the taste right, and most importantly, a strong sense of family and love to make it memorable. For Hammonton township’s Tomasello Winery, both are cultivated in each bottle sold and each glass poured making it one of the longest running family-owned wineries in the garden state.

Founded over 80 years ago in the 1930s, Tomasello Winery is currently operating with the third generation of the Tomasello winery, according to Charlie Tomasello, President at Tomasello Winery.

“My grandfather was a berry farmer in Hammonton known for growing some of the best peaches and raspberries in town,” Tomasello said, “When the government began its prohibition repeal and issue liquor licenses in 1933, my grandfather was first in line for his winery license in Washington D.C. and I guess the

HAVING A PLACE AT YOUR FAMILY TABLE -

A Look into Hammonton’s

Tomasello Winery

please see WINE, page 8 WINTER 2022

6

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2/28/2022.

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WINTER 2022

WINE

continued from page 6

rest is history.”

Starting a winery in the town of Hammonton is ideal for many reasons. Not only is the area rural with scenic views, but its rich agriculture is perfect for grape harvesting.

“Positioned along the Atlantic Coastline and the Pinelands, we enjoy a longer growing season as a benefit of the warming maritime effects on our climate. The soil is sandy and loamy with a slightly higher pH – most comparable to soil acidity levels found in the famed Loire Valley of France, which is known for bright, beautifully balanced wines,” Tomasello said.

“In Hammonton, we are located on the outer coastal plain that’s rich with sandy soil and warm soil climate for growing grapes,” Tomasello said. “Having a location like our main one in Hammonton let us explore other areas that would be great for a winery.”

Tomasello Winery currently has eight other locations in New Jersey including Lambertville, Mount Holly, Smithville, Wyckoff, Chester, Cranford, Jobstown and Freehold. Tomasello’ s wines can also be found in thousands of stores across 37 states along with select locations in Canada and Asia.

Among traditional wine flavors, Tomasello Winery is well known for producing nearly 50 wines, including red, white, rose and their popular fruit and Moscato wines like blackberry, blueberry, bing cherry, cranberry, grapefruit, huckleberry, peach, pineapple, red raspberry, salted caramel, tangerine, tangerine, cherry, pomegranate and spiced apple.

“We are currently experiencing popular sales in sparkling wine,” Tomasello said. “We are offering flavors like blueberry that are perfect with foods like cheesecake and even chicken.”

Other Tomasello Winery products include Artisan Orchard Hard Cider, a la mode fruit wines like blueberry crumb and deepdish cherry and wine-soaked oak chips. The family-owned winery is also known for its tasting rooms and winery events.

“Even during the pandemic, we have kept business moving with virtual wine tasting kits available to our customers,” Tomasello said. “Our most popular kit is our Tomasello Winery Social Distancing Kit which includes one grape patterned tasting mask complete with a bendable straw and Tomasello Winery Etched glass. All proceeds go to COVID-19 vaccination research.”

“We also offer several weekly and monthly events at our winery including Saturday specials, takeout offerings, bites and flights which provide our customers with three small plates and three mimosas, as well as ladies nights out with food, drinks and a Tomasello Winery keepsake,” Tomasello please see WINE, page 9 WINTER 2022

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WINE

continued from page 8

said.

With its beautiful location and breathtaking views, Tomasello Winery has also been made a popular wedding venue over the years.

“We have hosted close to 1500 weddings in the last 20 years,” Tomasello said. “With our opulent decor and customizable packages including custom labeled wine favors, signature open bar and five and a half hours for your ceremony and reception, we host only one wedding per day so everyone at the winery is dedicated to making your big day special.”

After being in business for over 80 years, Tomasello WInery has racked up very notable awards and achievements including: • Tomasello 2014 Palmaris Petit Verdot Reserve – Gold • Tomasello 2014 Palmaris Outer Coastal Plain Merlot – Gold • Tomasello 2015 Outer Coastal Plain Sangiovese – Gold • Tomasello 2014 Palmaris Cabernet

Sauvignon Reserve – Silver • Tomasello 2013 Palmaris Cabernet Franc Reserve – Silver • Tomasello 2013 Outer Coastal Plain Blaufrankish – Gold • “Best NJ Other Red” • Tomasello 2013 Palmaris’ Outer Coastal Plain Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve – Gold • “Best NJ Cabernet Sauvignon” • Tomasello 2015 Palmaris Outer Coastal Plain Merlot Reserve – Gold • “Exceptional” • Tomasello 2014 Outer Coastal Plain Sangiovese – Silver • Tomasello 2014 Outer Coastal Plain Rkatsiteli – Silver • Tomasello 2013 Outer Coastal Plain Cabernet Franc Reserve – Silver • Tomasello 2014 Outer Coastal Plain Chardonnay Reserve – Bronze For frequent customers and avid enthusiasts of Tomasello’s wine, the winery offers their exclusive Gold Club membership.

“With our gold club membership, members can enjoy 20 percent off full retail price of all wines, advance notice on new releases and special winery promotions, and free

shipping when you purchase six bottles or more of wine,” Tomasello said. “Membership is only 15 dollars, but you get to enjoy a year full of benefits.”

Looking into the future of Tomasello winery and the wine culture of New Jersey, Tomasello said he is looking forward to many great things to come.

“It is an exciting time right now for New Jersey’s wine industry,” Tomasello said.

“Tomasello’s winery hope for the future is that we continue offering new and exciting wines and wine products and we continue to do what we do best and having our wine at your family table every chance we get.”

For more information on Tomasello Winery, visit tomasellowinery.com or call 1-800-MMM-WINE. ■ PHOTOS BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

Top: Director of media relations, Maria Barbieri, pours a glass of Pinot Grigio in the tasting room at Tomasello winery.

Bottom: Director of media relations, Maria Barbieri, walks through the vineyard at Tomasello winery.

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EXPLORE

HAMMONTON THIS

Valentine’s Day

PHOTO BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

Hammonton couple Nico Decesero and Kelbie Brown, manager of Tales of the Olive.

WINTER 2022

10

08037

BY LAUREN LAMANTIA

A

s the spring approaches and Valentine’s Day comes around, downtown Hammonton brings opportunities for all to enjoy a night out with friends or someone close to their heart.

ANNATA WINE BAR If you are looking for a dinner for two, or a delicious dinner for yourself, step into Annata Wine Bar located at 216 Bellevue Ave in downtown Hammonton. The restaurant and wine bar, which features primarily but not subject to italian-based dishes, transports guests to a warm and inviting atmosphere based on Tuscany in Italy.

Annata Wine Bar has been open for 13 years downtown and is family owned and operated by Jackie Brunozzi Dolan and her brothers, Philip, alongside his wife Heather, and Matt Brunozzi, who is the executive chef. Together, they welcome guests to try over 125 wines offered by the glass, bottle or for you to take home to enjoy.

For this upcoming Valentines Day, Annata Wine Bar will operate on a day they are usually closed, to offer live acoustic music and an exclusive menu featuring a four-course meal for the holiday. The menu will be $69, plus tax and gratuity plus the option to add wine pairing for $33 plus tax and gratuity, according to Dolan. If there is a special

woman in your life, the restaurant will also give roses to treat them on the day of love.

Dolan encouraged guests to come for the special night and enjoy the many cocktails, wines and flavors being featured for Valentine’s Day and beyond the holiday at the restaurant. She noted for guests to try the espresso martini or white cosmos along with the salmon and the prime rib, which according to Dolan is a customer favorite.

With different culinary flavors to choose from, Annata Wine Bar is the perfect place for your special night out.

TALES OF THE OLIVE Located right next to Annata Wine Bar lies Tales of the Olive, a family-owned business that has been around since 2016 and features an array of pure gourmet olive oils, that do not include preservatives, additives or thickeners or anything that is unnatural.

At Tales of the Olive, owned by Kelly Brown and managed by her daughter Kelbie Brown, you will find the perfect place to discover more about your taste buds.

The store offers a unique selection such as fused and infused olive oil, gourmet olive oil, balsamic vinegars, sweets and skin care. The store also has chocolate boxes that guests can order or come in and design themselves, and a variety of gift baskets to treat a loved one to this Valentine’s Day. please see VALENTINE, page 12

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WINTER 2022

continued from page 11

VALENTINE

To celebrate the holiday with friends or family, guests are invited to expand their knowledge of cooking with Tale of the Olive’s private events. The events are suggested for 10 or less attendees so everyone is able to get involved and learn more about how a particular olive oil is made, where it is from and the underlying health benefits.

Kelbie Brown spoke about what guests can look forward to when they step inside of Tales of The Olive.

“I like to say that we are very familyoriented in our store. Obviously it’s my mom and I, of course with our employees as well, so we like to say we’re very welcoming towards our customers,” said Kelbie Brown.

Many flavors await at Tales of the Olive for you and a loved one to explore, making it a unique place to create a special experience.

PINEY HOLLOW ARTS STUDIO To explore your artistic side, check out Piney Hollow Arts Studio. Here you can tap into your creative expression with art lessons and workshops for students and adults.

Operated by artist Paula Farrar, the arts studio is open to all ages who aspire to learn more about the arts, and how to get intune with their ideas and imagination.

The studio offers the unique option for experienced and inexperienced artists to try out Art Journaling, a visual way of keeping a

diary with colors and expanding artistic skills with whatever may come to mind.

In visiting downtown Hammonton this Valentine’s Day, explore what is in store for you. With multiple creative vendors, restaurants and unique shops you can create new memories of your own. ■ PHOTOS BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

Left: Tales of the Olive owner Kelly Brown puts together gift boxes. Top Right: El Nuevo Mariachi Loco. Middle Right: Selene Roque serves lunch at El Nuevo Mariachi Loco.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNATAWINEBAR.COM

Annata Wine Bar outdoor seating PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK@ PINEYHOLLOWARTSSTUDIO

Piney Hollow Arts Studio

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WINTER 2022

H O W

T H E

HAMMONTON ARTS CENTER is Fostering Creativity

BY CHRIS ISAAC

A

person is never too old or too young to start exploring their artistic side, and that is a philosophy that the Hammonton Arts Center is trying to encourage for people in the New Jersey area. The Center offers regular classes and contests in all sorts of art mediums, such as painting, photography, ceramics and much more.

Joseph Bruno, the Center’s Correspondence Secretary, elaborated on what they are providing to community artists, saying, “We provide training, we provide a sales outlet, we provide a little camaraderie among artists. We try to get people to expand their horizons a little bit.”

The Arts Center traces its roots back to 1996, when some of the individuals who would become the founding members of the Center, decided to have an art show that proved highly successful. From there, they knew they wanted this to be a regular thing and Kitty McCullough began transforming a space into the Hammonton Arts Center’s first location. They have moved several times WINTER 2022

since their inception, but have always continued providing a space for artists of all stripes.

While the Center is certainly welcoming to hobbyists and budding talent, they are also proud to have helped some of their students turn their art into a career. “We’ve had some artists that started out here and are now very well established,” said Bruno. “This is what they do for a living. We have some that are very comfortable here and may never leave and go elsewhere.

But basically, I tell people we’re like an incubator for new artists. We try to nurture them.”

Bruno’s specialty is photography, but he enjoys the eclectic offerings that the Center provides. He notes how among other photographers, he personally applies his skill to taking pictures at Comic-Cons.

Others in the group focus on photographing sunsets, cars and wrestling matches. Visitors to the Center can find that same variety in all the artforms taught there.

“If there’s somebody that does it, we’ve probably had it in here,” Bruno said. He lists off pencil art, watercolors, acrylic and 14

oil as some of the many materials students are taught to work with. He shares that one of the artists specializes in jewelry, and he also recounts how they had a teacher whose passion was wood burning. “There’s one girl that works in colored pencil, and it is absolutely phenomenal.”

Like most locations that interact with please see CREATIVITY, page 15 08037

CREATIVITY

continued from page 14

the public, the Hammonton Arts Center had to navigate the challenges of COVID, but the art never stopped. During the worst of the pandemic, they kept things going through Zoom meetings and online contests. Bruno noted that, while there were of course some challenges, it was not enough to deter many of their regulars. He stated that if anything, art gives people an escape from the rest of the world.

“I think we are innately creative as human beings,” said Bruno, describing the importance of this space to himself and others.

“We look for ways to share that, to do that.

It’s great for stress relief.” He testified to that with a firsthand account of how he got involved with doing photography with the Center. “Somebody asked me to join, they said ‘we have a nice photography group, you need to join.’ And I needed something. That was it. Getting together with other creatives and being able to exchange ideas and work with each other, that was a God sent to me.”

It is formative moments like that which make the Arts Center staff want to share this experience with others. You don’t even have to be a paid member to enjoy some of their activities, such as their monthly exhibits that have a different theme, and even allow the general public to submit their art for consideration. But more than anything, they want more young people to come and learn.

“We are trying to get younger members

in,” said Bruno. “We would like to start seeing more high school, college-aged young adults coming in…We’re going to be reaching out to some of the local schools and offering free memberships to their art students.”

While it is true that the pandemic has made it harder to enjoy physically creating art, Bruno believes younger artists are demonstrating that the desire is still within them by expressing themselves digitally. “I think young people today are really into content creation. Although you usually only see it on Facebook and YouTube, the fact that they are interested in creating visual art bodes very well for us.”

Currently the Center is offering classes on painting and drawing, photography, and an upcoming clay class as well. They also have big plans for more offerings in 2022 and are excited to start debuting more ideas starting in January.

The Hammonton Arts Center is located at 10 S 2nd Street in Hammonton, New Jersey.

You can reach them for more information at 609-567-5360. ■ PHOTOS BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

Top: Teacher and Hammonton Art Center board member Annette Rinker works on the potters wheel at the Hammonton Art Center. Left: Teacher and Hammonton Art Center board member Annette Rinker at the Hammonton Art Center.

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WINTER 2022

take a

The

Funky Cow Café:

Moo-nique Bites

BY JASMINE FARRELL

D

istinctive and Avante Garde, the Funky Cow Café is a laid-back eatery owned by the creative and warm, Ricky Alverio. Located on the corner of Bellevue and Central, one cannot help but be enticed by the cow chair that sits calmly by the entrance door. With twenty years of experience as an interior and exterior designer, it’s no surprise that Alverio made sure to create an unforgettable and fun atmosphere. The cow print and sequence pillows, cow print high chairs and cowlike prints throughout the café felt playful and welcoming. The main colors, green and black, left a vibrant impression on me because it wasn’t what I expected looking at the outside of the restaurant.

Opening in 2016, the Funky Cow Café stands out with various savory waffle dishWINTER 2022

es. The menu includes tasty sandwiches, soups, distinctive salads, etc. What makes Funky Cow Café stand out is Alverio’s choice to replace the bland bread for savory waffles!

Passion oozes from his eyes as he speaks about why he chose waffles instead of basic bread, “We needed something. Seven years ago, I believe that the food industry had changed drastically. Everybody was looking to eat a little healthier because of their dietary needs and so on, so I thought: why not create something totally different, out of the box, experiment, and do something so crazy and fun!

That physically meant a savory waffle. A cow produces beef and produces milk, sweet and savory merge them together and that’s how the bangin brisket was created. Savory waffle entrees have been in existence for many 16

years now. It’s so original but why not invent that crispy, delicious, airy, amazing waffle.”

My tastebuds agree. The waffles are savory, flavorful, and crispy. Although I did not have the Bangin’ brisket, I did sink my teeth in Lola’s Cuban sandwich. Hefty slices of roasted pork, ham, crunchy pickles, and Lola’s sauce. The crunch and creamy fusion of tangy zest were delicious. It’s a messy sandwich- be warned! Nonetheless, it’s worth the extra napkins. During these brisk winter months, the Chicken Orzo Soup please see BITES, page 17 08037

BITES

continued from page 16

is a great addition to the sandwich of your choice. With orzo pasta, carrots and delectable chicken, celebrate a belated National Homemade Soup Day with a cup.

There is also an interesting and popular dish called the Trash Bowl.

A layered plate of Spanish rice and beans, BBQ pulled pork, shredded lettuce and mac n’ cheese. When asked about the origin story of the name, Alverio replied, “That’s inspired from Rochester. I have Airbnb’s in Rochester with my amazing partner. Down in Rochester, they have the famous garbage plate and I said, ‘well if the Funky Cow can become a destination for our beautiful hometown of Hammonton, why not instead of blueberries, let’s eat something even deeper and more crazy?’”

Alverio is always creating, especially with his interior and exterior design experience in tow. Physically designed and created by Alverio, he wanted to make sure that adults and children alike can express themselves.

With that being said, you’ll find chalkboards throughout the café so his customers can go wild in chalk! The cow outside is a wonderful photo op for customers to take with them to share their experience with others.

When he initially conjured up the idea of a Funky Cow Café, he envisioned a franchise that would spread internationally. The plan to expand was slowly materializing until the pandemic put it to a complete stop, like

many other businesses. However, Alverio aims to open up a second Funky Cow Café later this year.

Although the expansion was halted, The Funky Cow continued to thrive last year and presently. “I was very grateful. I maintained my lane, I followed through with our CDC guidelines and I was able to continue the importance of quality without raising my prices and at the same time, catering to my clientele because, in the heart of the pandemic, funds were not available to a lot of families. I maintained the passionate drive to be able to cater to my clientele without hurting their pockets but making sure that they had a mouthful of expansion and of delicious food.”

Alverio has a couple of new dishes rolling out this year, so be on the lookout for some new additions to the moo-nique menu! ■ Visit The Funky Cow Café at: 224 Bellevue Avenue | Hammonton NJ 609.704.5572 Open Wednesday-Sunday 11:00a to 4:00p Closed Monday & Tuesday PHOTOS BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

Left: Lettuce Wraps - Grilled Chicken, spicy Slaw and Chow Noodles. Right Top: Trash Bowl - Lettuce, Spanish rice, Mac & Cheese, Pulled Pork BBQ on top. Right Bottom: Lola’s Cuban - Roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and Lola’s sauce, savory waffle.

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WINTER 2022

A look at

LOCAL HISTORY

Historic Eagle Theatre comes full circle;

becomes staple for live performances

BY KATHY CHANG WINTER 2022

F

rom its humble beginnings showing motion pictures, to now producing large live scale productions, the Eagle Theatre has come full circle as a staple putting the quaint South Jersey township on the map for the arts.

The original uniquely shaped building still stands at 208 Vine Street as it did 108 years ago. Those who helped save the theater in 2006 were mindful and preserved its notable features.

“We have always tried to be mindful of the fact we are dealing with historic structures,” said James Donio, who serves on the Board of Directors at the theater. “We attempt to always maintain the integrity of the original designs.”

An undated photo from the Eagle Theater Project on the theater’s website offers a glimpse of its humble beginnings with a Model T casually parked in front.

And for its beginnings, the Eagle Theatre is eligible for the state National Register of Historic Places. It sits in Main Street New Jersey and neighborhood preservation districts.

The theater is one of the first structures built in the State of New Jersey specifically for the showing of motion pictures. Samuel Litke owned the theater from its inception to the Great Depression.

“A lot of theaters were adapted either 18

from nickelodeon to vaudeville houses then adapted,” explained Donio, who was part of the efforts to save the theater in 2006. “This theater was actually constructed for this purpose. They still had some live performances, but it was built initially for the purpose of showing motion pictures.”

In essence, the historic Eagle Theatre in Hammonton has come full circle for what Litke envisioned in 1914.

But it would take 79 years and a rally cry from local residents to save the theater and get the theater to where it is now - providing live “high quality, high caliber professional productions.”

Saving and Restoring the Eagle Theatre Litke owned the theater from 1914 until 1927. Then the theater became repurposed for use as a church for 15 years. In 1959, a local family bought the property and used it until 2006 as storage for their auto parts company.

In 2006, demolition was planned. That is when devoted residents rallied to save the theater to ensure downtown revitalization, according to its website.

The public outcry was pivotal in saving the theater.

In 2012, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provided more than half a million dollars in loans and grants for the nonprofit organization, Eagle Theatre Inc., to purchase the building and for physical improvements including equipment for the stage and ticketing.

Friends of Eagle Theatre worked with the nonprofit Hammonton Revitalization Corp. to secure the future of the historic theater.

The Eagle Theatre went back to its roots when it reopened as a movie theater at first with a screening of “Somewhere in Time” starring Christopher Reeve on July 9, 2009.

“We held a grand opening and committed ourselves to a variety of types of community arts,” Donio said. “We quickly learned pretty early on that we were getting a great response to live performances, live plays and musicals and saw that there was a niche. As the years went on, we saw that there was a niche for high quality, high caliber professional productions.”

Leadership at the theater came together to focus on becoming a professional, equity theater company.

“We are kind of a non-traditional theater,” Donio said. “We’re not in a metropolitan area. We are not in an area known for tourists. We’re kind of in an interesting atmosphere providing great access, great opporplease see HISTORY, page 19 08037

HISTORY

continued from page 18

tunities for people who otherwise would not have opportunities to experience live professional theater.”

With support from local government and a wide range of private donations, the Eagle Theatre has been able to sustain its mission of “telling meaningful stories through innovative, dynamic, and professional productions that advance the experience of live theater on our mainstage, in our community engagement, and through educational opportunities.”

“We have received a lot of critical acclaim,” Donio said. “We try to push the envelope with very large productions in an intimate atmosphere. I think the actors along with the audiences have found it to be very refreshing, the direct connection. We’re all about the immersive experience, making sure that we allow for the audiences to really become part of the overall experience.”

Eagle Theatre is unique to the area.

“The thing that sets us apart from other theaters is being an equity theater,” said Angela Longo, producing artistic director at Eagle Theatre. “We’re able to offer professional pay for our performers and we offer housing for outside actors, who can submit auditions from all over the country. We are very in house; we create our season, and we curate the type of performances that we want to share to the community.”

The theater, which has the ability for flexible seating, has a maximum capacity of 200

people.

“We have various configurations, which I think is part of that exciting experience coming to Eagle,” Longo said. “You’ll kind of get something new each time.”

As Hammonton - known as the “Blueberry Capital of the World” because of its blueberry farms - grows into a bit of a destination with its wineries, breweries, dining and festivals, Donio said they want to be in that mix of major players by drawing visitors to the town in Atlantic County.

“We have great support here for a town with 15,000 people,” he said. “We wouldn’t be able to produce live, professional, equity theater in this scale just serving a town of [this size], so we try to reach a wide range across the Tri-State Area, southern New Jersey and some of our neighboring states as well.”

Funding from various entities has allowed for expansion in the rear of the theater and amenities necessary for large scale productions.

“We acquired the property adjacent to the theater through some grant funds and other resources,” Donio said. “It’s a historic home from 1875 that we are just almost finished restoring now for ultimately down the road a workshop adjacent to the theater, for executive and administrative offices, and also to house our actors. It is very helpful to have that housing directly adjacent to the theater when we have actors coming in from out of town.”

Another plus is ample and free public

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parking in and around the theater. The theatre also has the advantage of Philadelphia being a 30-minute drive and train access is within walking distance.

“The fact that we have free, safe and ample parking within eyesight, walking distance of the theater, is something guests from out of town can be very appreciative of,” Donio said. “Guests can stroll through our charming walkable downtown, get a bite to eat before or after the performances, or even shop. It’s that overall experience, that Eagle experience, the whole package, that offers something a little different, maybe something unexpected in a small town.”

Donio said a large majority of audience members are from southern New Jersey, Philadelphia and Delaware.

“We have some from North Jersey,” he said. “Our furthest guest we are aware of that actually specifically came to Hammonton to see a production and built a trip around it was from Scotland. He was a big fan of the ‘Civil War’ musical and with the beauty of technology, he saw it on a Google [advertisement] because he was searching for it, and it popped up.” please see HISTORY, page 22 PHOTOS BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

(Left-Right) Hannah Marcellina, box office manager, and Kylie Westerbeck, Artistic Associate, sort through props at the Eagle Theater.

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GALENTINE’S LADIES NIGHT OUT

February 11 from 6 PM to 9 PM at Tomasello Winery in Hammonton. You and your girl gang will enjoy music, dancing and shopping! Chef Pete will be serving his famous gourmet pasta bar and more alongside a fully stocked bar featuring specialty cocktails. 800-MMM-WINE. www. tomasellowinery.com

VALENTINE’S DINNER DANCE

February 12 from 7 PM to 11 PM at Tomasello Winery in Hammonton. It’s time for a special evening with your special someone! A romantic night of “wine-ing,” dining, and dancing. Gourmet dinner prepared by the on-site executive chef and fully stocked cash bar. 800-MMM-WINE. www.tomasellowinery.com

THIRD THURSDAY “THAT’S AMORE, ITALIAN LOVE AFFAIR”

February 17 from 5 PM to 8 PM in the Downtown Hammonton Art District. Love is in the air and Downtown’s shops, galleries and eateries will be open late offering a full array of specials, sales and offers in true Italian fashion, that’s amore! 609-567-9014. www.downtownhammonton.com

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February 26 - 8PM at Kathedral Event Center. Join one of the original Real Housewives on New Jersey, featuring a Q&A with the audience and a meet and greet. 856685-6664. www.kathedral.com

XANADU

March 3 to 20 at Eagle Theatre. Described as “Heaven on Wheels” by the New York Times, Xanadu parodies the infamous 1980 cult classic film, featuring the music of Electric Light Orchestra and a story of forbidden love, chaos, and roller disco that travels from Mount Olympus to Venice Beach, California faster than you can say “E-e-vil Woman.”

609-704-5012 www.eagletheatre.org

THIRD THURSDAY “ST PATRICK’S DAY PARTY”

March 17 from 5 PM to 8 PM Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with 3 breweries, a distillery and eateries galore. There’s no question, Hammonton is going green for the night!.

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THE EASTER EGGSPRESS

March 26 to April 16 (Select dates and times.) DiDonato Family Fun Center. Hop along on the outdoor Easter-themed train ride before a meet-and-greet with the big bunny himself, also included is an egg hunt and special treats. 609-561-3040. www.didonatofuncenter.com

THE WINTER OPERA GALA

March 27 at 2 PM - Tomasello Winery in Hammonton. Experience an elegant afternoon of music, wine and fine dining.

Thoughtfully selected arias by world class artists in an intimate setting. 800-MMMWINE. www.tomasellowinery.com

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

April 15 from 1 PM to 3 PM in Downtown Hammonton. Hop along through Downtown Hammonton and fill your Easter baskets with goodies. Meet the Easter Bunny. Enjoy games & giveaways, including the Great Egg Drop at Toy Market. 609-567-9014. www. downtownhammonton.com

THIRD THURSDAY “Flower Power”

April 21 from 5 PM to 8 PM in Downtown Hammonton Art District. Experience an otherworldly display of flowers during this magnetic evening and enjoy the elegant display of outdoor sites and colors of the season through a floral fantasy. Downtown Hammonton transforms its shops and eateries into a botanical bash. 609-567-9014. www.downtownhammonton.com

KYM DURHAM, PSYCHIC MEDIUM LIVE

April 23 - 8PM at Kathedral Event Center.

Experience internationally renowned psychic medium for an amazing evening of live readings. 856-685-6664. www.kathedral.com

CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION

May 5 in Downtown Hammonton. Awardwinning restaurants, eateries and food trucks offer some of the best Mexican food in the tristate area. Other local businesses will also tie into this annual celebration of Mexican culture. 609-567-9014. www.downtownhammonton.com

DOWNTOWN CLEAN-UP & FLOWER PLANTING

May 7 from 9 AM to 1 PM in Downtown Hammonton. Volunteer with your fellow friends and neighbors and they clean-up please see HAMMONTON, page 21 08037

hammonton.com

ATLANTIC COUNTY TEEN ARTS FESTIVAL

May 21 from 12 PM to 5 PM in Downtown Hammonton. Live outdoor music, artists and fine crafters displaying a wide variety of items, interactive experiences and more.

609-567-9014. www.downtownhammonton. com

May 11 from 8 AM to 3 PM in the Downtown Hammonton Art District. Schools throughout Atlantic County are invited to display their talent, meet with professionals in the field and attend hands-on workshops or master classes. Area artists and teachers of visual and performing arts are welcome to connect and participate too. Held in various arts venues and on the streets of the Art District. 609-646-8699, Ext. 6314. www.aclink.org/culturalaffairs/ teenarts

CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION

May 12 to 29 at Eagle Theatre. Set at a six-week-long community center drama class, the witty and insightful Circle Mirror Transformation will bring audiences along on the journey of five individuals whose lives are forever changed by the theatrical “exercises” that help them reimagine who they might be able to be. 609-704-5012 www. eagletheatre.org

ANNUAL YARD SALE & CAR SHOW

May 14 from 8 AM to 12 PM at Victory Bible Church in Hammonton. Stop by to search out the perfect treasure from among the donated items that are on display, enjoy an outdoor car show and more. Proceeds go to a local charity.

CAMP JAM IN THE PINES MUSIC FESTIVAL

May 19 to 22 at Paradise Lakes Campground.

Attractive to music lovers of all tastes and ages, this family friendly fest includes wonderful craft and food vendors, as well as yoga workshops and children’s activities. So, if fun in the sun with like-minded folks and a truly unique musical experience sounds good to you, come on out to Camp Jam in the Pines (no camping required, but you may want to stay for a while!) www.cjinthep.com

THIRD THURSDAY “Bike Party”

May 19 from 5 PM to 8 PM in the Downtown Hammonton Art District. Bike to Town or bring your bike and enjoy all that Hammonton has to offer including restaurants, bars, breweries, a distillery, music, arts and so much more. Some locations offer outdoor dining and drinking. 609-567-9014. www.downtownhammonton.com

HAMMONTON ARTS & MUSIC FEST

THE TOTALLY TENORS OPERA GALA

May 22 at 2 PM - Tomasello Winery in Hammonton. Experience an elegant afternoon of music, wine and fine dining.

Thoughtfully selected arias by world class artists in an intimate setting. 800-MMMWINE. www.tomasellowinery.com

TRI-VETS MEMORIAL DAY PARADE AND CEREMONY:

May 30 at 10:30 AM in Downtown Hammonton. Military equipment, a band, dance groups, antique cars and trucks roll through town and culminates with a ceremony in Veterans Memorial Park.

This is partial listing of events and activities in the Hammonton area compiled by Destination Hammonton, as of this magazine’s print publication deadline. Events are subject to change or cancellation. Check with event organizers to confirm details. For the most updated list, please visit www.hammonton.com.

If you have an event you would like added to the website, please visit www.hammonton.com and add it to the online event calendar.

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CRUISIN’ MAINSTREET

May 20 from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM in Downtown Hammonton. Cruise on down for a great family evening featuring classic cars and retro music. Kids can enjoy a hula hoop contest and bubble gum blowing contest. 609-567-9014. www.downtown-

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HISTORY

continued from page 19

Donio said the theater has guests that join them on a regular basis.

“It speaks to the levels of the opportunities and access they have as well as for the high level of production, quality and experiences we provide,” he said. “I think it’s that overall interactivity, intimacy, along with consistent production and quality that really keeps them coming back.”

2022 season “The past year-and-a-half certainly was not a walk in the park,” Longo said. “There definitely were many, many challenges.

We were optimistic. We looked for all the silver linings and opportunities that the

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downtime essentially gave us. We were able to refocus. We reevaluated our mission of what kind of theater we wanted to be, who our audience was and really focused on those questions.”

Longo became part of the company in February of 2020, right before the pandemic closed theater doors.

“When I started there were shows I was about to produce as a fresh new leader, which would have been a whirlwind within itself,” she said. “I was prepared for a little bit of madness and whirlwind.”

Longo, with a relatively new staff, is gearing up for a mini season post-COVID on their main stage, first with “Xanadu,” a high energy 1980s parody, in March, and “Circle Mirror Transformation,” a realistic play by playwright Annie Baker, in May. “These two shows really take you to two opposite ends of the spectrum,” Longo said.

“It’s a fun way to welcome audiences back from this long hiatus. They are very eager to return. We’re seeing a lot of our patrons jump up enthusiastically and there are plenty who are equally as hesitant with COVID and variants.”

Now, more than ever, the theater staff is focusing on optimism.

“We want these productions to be pretty amazing because we think the artists deserve it after longing to come back and work with us,” she said, adding the audiences deserve it, too.

“Our patrons definitely consumed a lot of art on their TVs and screens, but there is something very different in getting out of the house and sitting in an audience full of people and seeing the lights come up on stage,” she said. “It’s very magical. There’s going to be a lot of glitter and roller skates on stage, too. There’s not that in your living room at home.”

The theater also works with outside choreographers and designers for the shows.

“It’s all about matching the designer with the script to make sure their style matches with what we’re conveying on the stage,” Longo said.

As an equity theater housed under a union, the theater is a fully vaccinated workplace. Actors and anybody in the rehearsal room will be COVID tested at least twice a week.

Along with their main stage, the theater also provides a year-round conservatory education program for students and a repertory program for high school students.

Longo said despite the pandemic, they were able to maintain the programs for the students whether virtually or outdoors.

For more information visit eagletheatre. org. ■

PHOTOS BY JAMIE GIAMBRONE

(Left-Right) Hannah Marcellina, box office manager, and Kylie Westerbeck, Artistic Associate, sort through tickets at the Eagle Theater.

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