VOLUME L, ISSUE 3
Newsletter www.capemaymac.org
SUMMER 2020
READY TO DINE OUT AGAIN? Vintage brings a breath of fresh air to the Physick Estate CAPE MAY — During these uncertain times, one thing that has become certain is the success of Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture)’s new joint venture with KARA Restaurant Group, Vintage. Vintage, which opened in June to eager diners, offers a delectable brunch menu and a superb dinner menu, all al fresco on the patio under the tent, on the gorgeous grounds of the historic Emlen Physick Estate. “Partnering with KARA Restaurant Group to open Vintage at the Emlen Physick Estate has been a very healthy addition to what
we can offer the public this year,” said Cape May MAC Director Jody Alessandrine. The timing was just right, and we were so wellsuited to an expansion of our restaurant on the grounds, because of the underutilized outdoor brick patio. We’ve discovered already that people regularly return to Vintage - eager to try something else on the menu. Neighbors have been regulars, which is a great sign. We are delighted to be working with our new partners on (CONTINUED ON PAGE 13)
DONOR PROFILE: Young fan raises funds to help Cape May MAC continue its work during challenging time Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) was the grateful recipient this spring of a $210 donation from Caroline Dupree, 12, daughter of Elizabeth and Tom Dupree, of Chevy Chase, Maryland. Caroline raised the funds to be donated equally to support the preservation of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, and the 1942 World War II Lookout Tower, two of her favorite Cape May historic sites, both maintained by Cape May MAC. “We were so delighted and surprised at (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)
Lessons of History performance postponed CAPE MAY – There are fewer than dozens of living descendants of U.S. presidents, and just one who steps into the role of his presidential ancestor on stage. Actor Clifton Truman Daniel will bring to life his grandfather, President Harry S. Truman, in next year’s production (CONTINUED ON PAGE 12)
CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL VIRTUAL CONCERTS
Bay Atlantic Symphony and New York Chamber Ensemble Sept. 8, 17, 22 & Oct. 1, 2020 Caroline and Andrew Dupree
More new plans for 31st Cape May Music Festival We had every hope that we could present our popular mainstage concert series and Bach’s Lunches in the Fall, when our venues reopened and restrictions relaxed. Director of Special Events Janice Corkery did an admirable job of juggling dates and keeping in touch with artists. Unfortunately, it’s become apparent that COVID-19 will prevent us from presenting the Cape May Music Festival season our audiences have come to enjoy over its 31-year lifespan. We are working now
Clifton Truman Daniel will portray his grandfather, President Harry S. Truman, in “Give ’Em Hell, Harry!” in 2021.
with our ensembles in residence, the Bay Atlantic Symphony and New York Chamber Ensemble, to develop alternate offerings that can be safely streamed at home so you can still experience this wonderful music. As we go to press, it appears we will have a series of four video concerts this Fall. Each will be followed by Zoom Q and A sessions with Jed Gaylin, Eliot Bailen and members of their ensembles. Jed and Eliot have promised us an exciting line-up, bringing (CONTINUED ON PAGE 11)
LIVE PERFORMANCES BACKTRACK VOCALS Sept. 19, 2020
ATLANTIC BRASS BAND Nov. 21, 2020
In This Issue
Donor Profile..............................Page 1 Education Wrap-up................Page 11 From the President....................Page 5 Membership News .................. Page 7 Message from the Director...Page 14 Recent Happenings..................Page 2 Thank You Department....Pages 8-10
RECENT HAPPENINGS Spring Wrap-Up
Just as we were gearing up for our 50th Anniversary Exhibit Opening and Spring Celebration programming, we, along with the rest of the world, were stopped in our tracks by COVID-19. Instead of greeting and entertaining visitors, we were suddenly dealing with a mothballed fleet of trolleys, postponed events, cancelled tours and furloughed staff. New Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine and CFO Charlie Kealy jumped right into an alphabet soup of government assistance programs -- PPP, EIDL , CARES – to help keep us afloat until we could open our doors again. We began analyzing executive orders, researching CDC guidance and ordering PPE equipment. Our tour managers, under the direction of COO Melissa Payne, began planning for socially distanced tours at our historic sites and on our trolleys, and for the safety of our visitors and staff. When the word came down from Trenton, we would be ready to hit the ground running. In the meantime, in an abundance of caution, we cancelled Sip into Spring, the Cape May Hops Festival and the Craft Beer, Music & Crab Festival, three of our major outdoor festivals (and fundraisers) at the Physick Estate. Director of Visitor Services Janice Corkery rescheduled the entire Cape May Music Festival, some concerts twice! As Jody and Charlie were working on the financial end, our marketing and communications folks were busy pivoting our outreach to electronic channels. In short order, Director of Media Relations Susan
Cape May MAC staff and visitors have adapted quickly to safety precautions required for safe operations of tours and events. Cape May MAC Tour guide Kathleen Familetti (right) introduces visitors to the Physick House Museum.
Krysiak had produced a digital version of our Physick Estate Tour featuring interpreter Jon Vile. She followed this with a virtual Lighthouse Climb. Susan also filmed a series of videos with Cape May MAC President Tom Carroll highlighting the content of our 50th Anniversary Exhibit. Getting the digital content onto our website along with continuous updates on the impact of COVID-19 on our programming fell to Leslie Weidel (who had just finished building our new website) and Chief Outreach Officer
NEWSLETTER Published by Cape May MAC, a not-for-profit corporation P.O. Box 340, Cape May, NJ 08204 • Phone: 609-884-5404 New Jersey Relay Center for TTY Customers: 800-852-7899 Web Site: www.capemaymac.org • E-Mail: info@capemaymac.org Editor: Jody Alessandrine • Assistant Editor: Jean Barraclough Contributors: Sandra Adams, Susan Krysiak, Anna Marie Leeper, Eliza Lotozo, Melissa Palmer and Mary E. Stewart
OUR MISSION The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. ---- v ---OUR VISION Preserving Cape May’s rich heritage and assuring its vitality through superior cultural programs and events.
Eliza Lotozo. They also found time to build out an on-line museum shop with a selection of popular items. Leslie and Eliza also continuously worked our Facebook pages to keep our members and friends up to date. While we were physically quarantined and the offices basically closed, we still managed to get our staff together regularly to manage all the planning necessary to get us back up and running. We became Zoom converts very early on and have pretty much become expert users now. There is hardly a day that goes by that one team or another is not convening digitally. The technical challenges of providing everyone with the ability to connect, and maintaining our hardware, software and network fell to Cathy Baldacchini. Cathy has tinkered, reset, rebooted and replaced equipment, coached and cajoled us into a comfortable relationship with this new technology. Since we’ve become more dependent on technology to live our new digital life, Cathy has been our lifesaver. We did introduce Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture), our new branding and website, on schedule at the beginning of April, though with a much different goal than we had originally planned. We went into overdrive with email outreach, to keep our audience connected (CONTINUED ON PAGE 11)
Page 2 • Summer 2020
Cape May MAC
www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC focuses on its roots 1971: First guided Emlen Physick Estate Tour
1976: Tractor purchase approved to pull first trolley for tours 1988: Cape May Lighthouse opens to the public 2009: World War II Lookout Tower opens to the public
Perhaps it is fitting that in 2020, the 50th anniversary year of Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture), COVID-19 has had the effect of paring back the organization’s schedule to focus on some of its “oldest” and most popular tours, activities and events. It’s a reminder of the organization’s deep roots in the Cape May community and of its resilience for the future. While there are select new offerings in 2020, some born from a quick turnabout due to COVID-19, much of Cape May MAC’s current schedule consists of tours that have been around for ages, what we’ve nicknamed our “bread and butter” tours, which include tours of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, climbs of the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse, visits to the 1942 World War II Lookout Tower, and Cape May MAC Trolley Tours, with knowledgeable guides taking visitors through the Historic District and beyond. If you’re having trouble deciding what to do when you’re here, read This Week in Cape May online or pick up a copy at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., at the Washington Mall Information Booth, Washington Street at Ocean Street, or around town. It’s the best resource for planning what to do while you are here. READ THE LATEST ISSUE If you want to plan your Cape May visit from your couch, visit capemaymac.org or call us at 609-884-5404. Because social distance limits capacity at our historic sites, in the museum and on the trolleys, we suggest you make reservations in advance. It can’t hurt to purchase your tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Celebrate and enjoy Cape May again with your loved ones! Cape May MAC Group Tour Manager Susan Gibson is available to organize custom private tours or personal city guides for your family or quarantined-together group. Cape May MAC offers private trolley tours, Physick www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC Visitor Service Associate Janet Yunghans shares a swashbuckling story during Breakfast with the Pirates.
House tours, or walking tours for groups that have been quarantined together. Groups must remain together and wear masks. We are now accepting groups up to 25 people. For smaller groups of 2-4, book your very own Cape May MAC City Guide and receive a private tour aboard a streetlegal golf cart. To book a private tour, call Susan at 609-224-6030. There are dozens of options to choose from and Susan is an expert at tailoring a group tour experience to excite your special interests. She is knowledgeable about dining options as well. And if you want to get a flavor of what
there is to do right now and through the end of 2020 in Cape May, in one long sentence, here is a sampling of things you can do: Emlen Physick Estate Guided Tours; Carriage House Carroll Gallery Exhibit “50 Years of MAC”; Carriage House Museum Shop; Cape May Lighthouse & Museum Shop; World War II Lookout Tower; Physick Estate Scavenger Hunt; Cape May Treasure Hunt; Breakfasts with the Pirates; Cape May Whale Watcher Boat Cruises; New! Painted Ladies, Porches & More Walking Tours; Cape Mayhem & Victorian Oddities Trolley Tours; Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tours; Combination Historic District Trolley Tour/Emlen Physick Estate Tours; Historic District Trolley Tours; Historic Haunts Combination Tours; Historic Haunts House Tours; Welcome to Cape May Trolley Tours; Scarecrow Alley; Cape May Music Festival - Bay Atlantic Symphony & New York Chamber Ensemble Virtual Concerts; Cape May Music Festival - Atlantic Brass Band; New! Magic & Mystery House Tour; New! Vintage Restaurant (Emlen Physick Estate); New! SunSet Jazz (Spyboy Productionsat the Physick Estate). Check back at capemaymac.org for regular updates to the upcoming 2020 schedule. Schedule is subject to change in response to ongoing requirements. We hope to see you enjoying Cape May very soon. Stay safe. -- SK
Visitors get a taste of Cape May MAC’s rich 50-year history at the current exhibit at the Carroll Gallery in the Carriage House. Cape May MAC
Summer 2020 • Page 3
MAC DONOR PROFILE: (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) Caroline’s contribution, that we decided to make her our Donor Profile for this Summer Newsletter,” said Cape May MAC Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine. “Caroline’s efforts are a great example of how our tours and programs educate and make an impression on people, young and old.” “Every summer, I love going to the Emlen Physick Estate and the World War II Lookout Tower,” Caroline said. “I really enjoy hearing all of the stories and talking to the people there. They are so knowledgeable, and I learn something new each time.” Over several weeks this spring, Caroline collected some of her childhood toys and collection items and posted them on eBay. In total, she raised $210 to be split evenly between the Physick Estate and the World War II Lookout Tower. “Now with the lockdown, I know that a lot of places are struggling this year and I want to be helpful,” she said. “I really want to preserve the memories and help. So, I decided to sell my childhood collection items and stuff, and I used that money to donate. This was my first time selling online — it was really exciting! … Whenever we got a notification, I would package it up and send it out to people. It was fun.” Caroline’s brother, Andrew, 14, is also
a big fan of Cape May MAC, especially the World War II Lookout Tower, where he enjoys spending time talking to the knowledgeable guides about the history of the Tower and Cape May’s role in World War II. Andrew visits the Tower no less than four times a summer, each time spending about 25 minutes conversing with the guides. He has written two papers on the subject — the first a one-page report on the Tower, itself, in seventh grade, and the second a 10-page paper focusing on Cape May’s role during World War II. “His visits to the Tower were the inspiration,” Elizabeth said. Caroline also was inspired to do research for her own history class. For a seventh-grade research project, Caroline chose to make a PowerPoint presentation about the Physick Estate. [Insert PHOTO power point photo of cover page]
“Our homework over the summer last year was to research one historical place,
Caroline Dupree take pictures of it, and when we got back, we would make a PowerPoint presentation. When I was there, I met with one of the ladies, I think her name was Joyce.” Joyce Barth is a guide for Cape May MAC. “We met there, and we talked a little bit beforehand and I took notes. And I remember we saw her later, on the mall in Cape May! It was really nice because I got a lot of information from her.” “Every time I go (to the Physick House Museum) I learn something new!” Caroline said.
LISTEN TO HER HERE, AS SHE TALKS ABOUT THAT EXPERIENCE
Cape May MAC leaders are delighted by Caroline’s passion and efforts. Donations of all sizes are much-needed now. With restrictions that severely limit our capacities, which are in place to keep our visitors safe at our three historic sites and for our trolley tours and events, we need donations now more than ever. Please consider making a donation today to Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) and, like Caroline, you will help us continue to preserve Cape May’s history for future generations. -- SK
DONATE TO MAC
Safe, clean trolleys Shown here, Cape Cleanse LLC works to disinfect Cape May MAC trolleys against the Coronavirus. With open air trolleys, limited seating, social distancing and personal protective equipment, Cape May MAC now offers trolley tours daily in Cape May.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO
Page 4 • Summer 2020
Cape May MAC
www.capemaymac.org
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Like no other time Former United State Senator Tom Daschle and his wife Linda were regular visitors to Cape May back in the 1990s and they were strong supporters of what MAC was doing for the community. Several years after leaving office, Tom sent me his book entitled “Like No Other Time,” which referred to the impeachment period of President Bill Clinton. That title has been very much on my mind lately since, in so many ways, it applies more now than ever. About this time last year, a special 50th Anniversary of Cape May MAC committee started meeting regularly, working on planned special events, anniversary items to sell and display, and, of course, the 50th Anniversary Exhibit in the Carriage House that has only recently been able to open. We also worked hard on a name change for Cape May MAC and a revamped web site to coincide with launching into our next 50 years. Fortunately, we completed that assignment before the world turned upside down. So rather than celebrating the past and looking forward to a great future, we have been changing so many of our plans in order to minimize the disastrous effects of the virus on every aspect of Cape May MAC’s existence. For several months, we appeared to be at a standstill on our deserted properties, but Director Jody Alessandrine and our leadership team were busy Zoom-meeting and reconfiguring every activity ahead to see what had to be dropped, reduced or restricted while speculating when and if anything could start up. I want you to know how impressed I have been with all the details that they have worked out, their dedication, as well as the efforts of many volunteers who have worked so hard to keep it all together. I want to focus on some areas of real progress that Cape May MAC has made during this turbulent time. First, if you haven’t treated yourself to lunch or dinner at Vintage, our new restaurant in the Carriage House tent, you are missing out. After years of attempting to run a successful food service operation, and failing, we decided to turn the café over to food service professionals and Vintage is off to an outstanding start. www.capemaymac.org
It helps that we have the prettiest outdoor setting in Cape May, and the folks at Vintage have made the space under and around the tent even more attractive. Much to my surprise, the Cape May
If the world situation is making you feel a little down, come take advantage of your membership and enjoy the best that Cape May MAC has to offer.
Lighthouse was the first of our properties that we were allowed to reopen and as always, it is doing quite well. Staff and volunteers are present to see that only 10 visitors are inside the lighthouse at any time. The gift shop in the oil storage building is also open. Our World War II Lookout Tower and Memorial is open too, with limited numbers of visitors. While we were waiting for approval for Physick House Museum and Trolley tours, our staff revived one of MAC’s earliest tours, a walking tour of Cape May. This tour is called Painted Ladies, Porches & More Walking Tour and it begins at the Carriage House, which is also now open and features the exhibit, “50 Years of MAC: 1970 to 2020.” I know some of you have followed my presentations on the exhibit, but now you can see for yourself the outstanding displays that Janet Coupland and Jean Barraclough have created. By the time you are reading this, the Physick House Museum will be open seven days a week, and will include the popular Historic Haunts evening tours, and our Trolleys will be offering open-air tours of Cape May. Of great importance to Cape May MAC is the work that our staff has put into keeping MAC afloat financially. We applied for and received a Federal Small Business Association Paycheck Protection Program loan, which has helped so much to keep funds flowing to staff and property maintenance. Right from the start, senior staff members volunteered to work for half pay, and others agreed to be furloughed. So, if the world situation is making you feel a little down, come take advantage of your membership and enjoy the best that Cape May MAC has to offer. You might also want to volunteer at one of our sites and see how enthusiastic our visitors are about experiencing all of Cape May MAC’s many attractions. Ayeshah Dickerson, our Manager of Volunteer Engagement, would love to hear from you. Hope to see you soon!
Cape May MAC
-- Tom Carroll, President Summer 2020 • Page 5
Volunteer creates Trolley Tour video Tom Grayson, of Cape May, N.J., is the Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) Volunteer of the Month for July. Cape May MAC Director of Tour Operations Nanci Coughlin nominated him for the honor. “Tom approached me with an offer we were excited to accept: to create a video that highlights our trolley tours. He has brought a level of expertise to the project that is outstanding, and it was all done as a volunteer. In May, we were able to accomplish the filming, with permission from the city, and while maintaining social distance, which was no small feat. Tom is a consummate professional and found ways to safely photograph and video record our tour guides as they talked about their favorite trolley tours. It is an awesome piece and we will use it to promote our group tours and our public trolley tours. Our marketing team is thrilled, and we really appreciate Tom and his wife Jenn, who helped spark the idea and is a guide for Cape May MAC.” Grayson is Vice President, Creative & Video, for JPMorgan Chase and has been in the video and communications field since 1998, capturing and creating content from 17 countries, from Serbia to Australia to the Alaskan frontier. “With every creative production, the people and
places you encounter always make for an amazing story,” he said. “Cape May and the Cape MAC team are at the top of the list. Great people surrounded by engaging history, nature, and architecture. A great combination. I highly recommend locals and visitors take advantage of this amazing
Cape May resource.” Cape May MAC has many public tours and events open to the public now. For information, visit capemaymac.org. You can watch the video on the Cape May MAC website and YouTube site. -- SK
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO Photo courtesy of Tom Grayson):
Time to start planning for Scarecrow Alley Attention families, schools, groups, businesses and individuals! Scarecrow Alley returns in 2020! Get out your sketch books. Start a Zoom meeting with your cohorts. Imagine and plan the scariest, funniest, goofiest Scarecrow you can, or just something you really like, and then crack out the crafts materials. Create something wonderful and bring it to the Emlen Physick Estate where it will be on display for four full weeks — that’s an extra week this year — from Friday, Oct. 9 through Saturday, Nov. 7. Anyone can register — individuals, families, community groups, businesses and school classrooms are all welcome to participate. Prizes in a variety of categories will be awarded. “Scarecrow Alley has been a part of the community for 11 years,” said Cathy Baldacchini, this year’s organizer, and Cape May MAC’s IT Manager. “It is an opportunity for local organizations to share something just a little bit quirky and a whole lot of fun
Page 6 • Summer 2020
with both residents and visitors. It’s a great outdoor activity.” Registrants may pick up cross stakes and hay from Monday, Sept. 28 through Thursday, Oct. 8 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Maintenance Barn, located on the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. All entries receive a 4-foot-by-4-foot area to decorate. Larger spaces are available upon request. Multiple Scarecrows, whimsical characters and miscellaneous props are encouraged. The Munchkin category is for young children (ages 3 to 10) to create a miniature Scarecrow, with a 3-foot cross stake. Cape May MAC will provide all entrants up to two wood cross stakes and hay free of charge. Scarecrows can reflect a special theme or promote your organization, business or school. Scarecrows must be constructed to withstand severe wind and rainy weather conditions, so please choose materials wisely. All decorations must be firmly attached to your Scarecrow and display. Cape May MAC
“We recommend you use staple guns, and fishing line or string to secure your Scarecrow,” said Baldacchini. “If you use newspaper or hay, please place it in plastic bags to stuff your Scarecrow. We’ve learned over the years that wet materials weigh the Scarecrows down and can cause your Scarecrow to droop or change shape.” All entries should be dropped off at the Physick Estate from Monday, Oct. 5 to Thursday, Oct. 8 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Scarecrows shall be in good taste. Scarecrows and displays reflecting controversial, social, religious or political opinions or statements will not be accepted. To obtain the (short) application form and for more information, contact Cathy Baldacchini at (609) 224-6024. Deadline for completed entry forms is Monday, Sept. 28. You can mail your completed form to: Cathy Baldacchini, Cape May MAC, P.O. Box 340, Cape May, NJ 08204, email it to cbaldacchini@capemaymac.org, or fax it to 609-884-0574. -- SK www.capemaymac.org
MEMBERSHIP NEWS Welcome New Members
Benefactor:
Richard Sterner & Diane DeGurian of North Cape May, NJ.
Sponsor: Kelly & Carmen Barone of Wildwood Crest, NJ; Janiene & Tom Losco of Basking Ridge, NJ. Family: Moira & Tim Buzby of Alexandria, VA; Matthew & Amy Caspari of Washington, DC; Joseph & Denise Darconte of Staten Island, NY; Laurie & Sarah Levin Goodstine of Montclair, NJ; Laura Holtry-Hughes & Todd Hughes of Cape May, NJ; Kevin & Debby Kilkenny of Staten Island, NY; Holly & Terry Miller of Bel Air, MD; Linda & Fred Powell of Jamison, PA; Adam & Mandy Sober, of Cape May, NJ. Grandparents: Margaret & Jim Fortney of Pitman, NJ; Connie & Tom Martenstein of Richmond, VA; Jennifer Morgan & John Kiker of Philadelphia, PA; Maureen Nelson-Plummer & James Plumber of Barnegat Township, NJ; Ruth VanBuskirk & Larry Breneman; Ann & Thomas Walker of Villas, NJ.
Joint:
Kim & Tom Barbagallo of Oradell, NJ; Rose Bicksler & Robert McBride of
Downington, PA; Steve Brangs & Kathleen Gans-Brangs of Newark, DE; Robert & Karen Bredehoft of Cape May, NJ; Suzan & George Chmiel of Wildwood Crest, NJ; Tricia & Jim Collins of Rio Grande, NJ; Alice Cutler & Robert Benslely of Morristown, NJ; Ken & Lisa Durrua of Point Pleasant, NJ; Ross & Sharon Ellison of Hershey, PA; Donna & Richard Gaglianese of Rydal, PA; Karyn & David Goldner of Allentown, PA; Christopher & Lee Hajduk of Cape May, NJ; Pamela & Dennis Henry of Springfield, PA; Bruce & Marcella Hort of Columbus, NJ; Helen & John Karlen of Copley, OH; Brian & Carol Laube of North Haledon, NJ; Peter & Kathy Manzetti of Lyndhurst, NJ; Peter & Carol Mastrola of North East, MD; John & Karen May of Randolph, NJ; John & Carol McCarthy of North Cape May, NJ; Maxine & Philip Mino of Mullica Hill, NJ; Patricia & John Murray of Sewell, NJ; Emily Newnam & Ben Kopp of Brooklyn, NY; Guy & Simone Raybaud of Hackensack, NJ; Elaine & Art Rottger of Highland Lakes, NJ; Michele & Joseph Shuker of North Cape May, NJ; Joseph Sloan & Lisa Dippolito Sloan of Medford, NJ; Virginia & Walter Vogt of Haddon Heights, NJ.
Individual:
Ruth Deschler of Absecon,
Congratulations to:
NJ; Anne Marie Flanagan of Deptford, NJ; Donna Flegal of Town Bank, NJ; Carol Fryling of Perkiomenville, PA; Mary Beth Hodic of Matawan, NJ; Nancy O’Hanlon of Easton, PA; Venita O’Hanlon of Easton, PA; Karen Russo of Villas, NJ; Shirley Stone of Boyertown, PA.
Student: Brad Cary of Allendale, NJ; Emma Cary of Allendale, NJ; Rachel Cary of Allendale, NJ; Andrew Dupree of Chevy Chase, MD; Caroline Dupree of Chevy Chase, MD; Christopher Sloan of Medford, NJ; Laura Sloan of Medford, NJ. FRIENDS OF THE CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL Grandparents: Jennifer Morgan & John Kiker of Philadelphia, PA.
Joint: Michael & Maureen Gallagher of North Cape May, NJ.
FRIENDS OF THE LIGHTHOUSE Individual: Peg Butwin of Philadelphia, PA. FRIENDS OF THE PHYSICK ESTATE Individual: Bob Price of Fort Washington, PA.
Joint: Kalina & Erik Guilfoyle of Toms River,
NJ.
Jacob Cuomo, on his retirement from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Condolences to:
Joan Bauer, on the death of her husband Steve Bauer, a long-time volunteer; Sally Denithorne, on the death of her husband, Bart Denithorne, former Trolley driver and former owner of the Primrose Cottage; Lucille Doherty and family on the death of Dennis Doherty, former owner of the Dormer House; Joe and Sue Evangelista, on the death of Joe’s mother; family and friends of Stina Ferguson, longtime Cape May MAC volunteer; Volunteer Stacey Green, on the death of her mother; Freeholder Marie Hayes on the death of her stepdaughter; Administrative Assistant Anna Marie Leeper, on the death of her brother Ben Whitcraft; The friends and family of Volunteer Joe Sheridan; Tour Operations Coordinator Mary Lutz, on the death of her mother, Frances Skrypnyk; Maintenance Director Paul Smargiassi and wife Nancy, on the death of her mother Rose Vanelli.
www.capemaymac.org
A chance to get out in the world after being cooped up inside for three months was a thrill for 150 garden lovers on the Spring Celebration Garden Tour, presented by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) Saturday, June 13. Shown here, Connie Parker, Egg Harbor Township, Dolores “Dee” and Tammy Simkins of Franklinville, and Caitie Lee of Newfield enjoyed time together as a family during the tour, for the first time in months.
Cape May MAC
Summer 2020 • Page 7
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S CHARTER MEMBERS OF THE 2020 SOCIETY
($25,000 pledges over 5 years)
Dan Barbera Curtis Bashaw Lee & Jill Bellarmino Tom & Sue Carroll Chris & Dave Clemans Tom & Peg Curran Mary & Tedd McKenney NJM Insurance Group Jay & Lisa O’Donnell Bill & Audrey Schwab Patricia Valas Joan & Dane Wells
PLATINUM MEMBERS OF THE 2020 SOCIETY
($10,000 pledges over 4 years)
John & Sylvia Baer Brown and Brown of New Jersey Bob Fite Richard and Susan Foxx Myles and Leslie Martel Doug and Anna Marie McMain Jim and Betty Moffatt Barbara Morris PNC Bank Sue Priester Catherine Rein Steve and Sandy Sheller Sturdy Savings Bank
Visitors to Cape May MAC historic sites and on tours are required to wear masks as part of safety protocols established for the protection of visitors, staff and volunteers.
You can help ensure MAC’s future by becoming a GOLD MEMBER of the 2020 Society with a $4,500 pledge over 3 years 2020 SOCIETY DONATIONS • Charter Members ($5,000 pledge payment): Tom & Sue Carroll, Chris & Dave Clemans, Tom & Peg Curran, Jim & Lisa O’Donnell, Audrey & Bill Schwab, Patricia Diane Valas, Dane & Joan Wells. • $1,000-$2,499 Silver Donors: Warren & Janet Coupland, Peggy & Stan Gora, William Killeen & Barbara Bittner-Killeen, Kit & BJ Marlowe, Don & Alethia White. • $100-$499 Friend Donors: Barbara Biller, Dean Michelson & Virginia Lang. • Under $100 Donors: Jay & Diana Talsania, Maryann Toniazzo & Ed Sabedra. Page 8 • Summer 2020
CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL DONORS • Trio Sponsor ($1,500-$1,999): OceanFirst Foundation. • Quartet Sponsor ($1,000-$1,499): Tom & Sue Carroll. • Conductor’s Circle ($500 - $999): Marlene Lengner. • Presenter’s Circle ($250-$499): Ronald Holman & Sharon Falkowski, Alan & Karen McGuire. • Musician’s Circle ($100-$249): Mike & Nancy Childs, Fred & Rosemary Fellmeth, Lee & Carol Fredericks, John & Deborah Lukens, Henry & Carol Mauermeyer, Theodore & Virginia Passon. • Friends (Under $100): Anne Burrows, Kimberly & Jeffrey DeNick, Diane Jackson.
Donations
• Frank & Beth Acker, for a $1,000 donation in memory of Betty Moffatt. • Eileen & Jim Alesi, for a $100 donation in Memory of James Alesi. • Patty Alessandra, for a $5 donation to the Physick Estate. • Nanci Amidon, for a $25 donation. • Michael Baldacchini, for a $100 donation. • Sue & Frank Barber, for a $50 donation. • Margaret Battistelli, for a $50 donation in honor of Florence Cartwright for Mother’s Day. Cape May MAC
• Lee & Jill Bellarmino, for a $500 donation. • Gregory K. Black, for a $5,000 donation through The New York Community Trust Richard Cummings (G. Black) Fund. • Jeanette Block, for a $150 donation. • Debra & Daniel Bosin, for a $100 Donation. • Michele Boyd, for a $50 donation. • Robert & Karen Bredehoft, for a $100 donation to operations and a $50 donation to the World War II Lookout Tower. • Sally Brice-O’Hara, for a $100 donation. • Arleen Buchanan & James Imbriaco, for a $100 donation. • Nancy Burton, for a $30 donation. • Philippa Campbell, for a $100 donation. • Carla Capizzi, for a $50 donation • Tom & Sue Carroll, for a $4,000 donation to operations, a $5,000 donation to assist with legal expenses associated with the Lower Township Zoning application, and a $3,000 donation toward the purchase of new freezers. • Diane & Brian Close, for a $25 donation. • Ronnie & Barry Cohen, for a $100 donation to George’s Angels, in memory of George Mesterhazy. • Bruce & Robin Corini, for a $100 donation. • Anna Cozzone, for a $10 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse in memory of Our Soldiers. www.capemaymac.org
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S • David Cresswell, for a $200 donation. • Jake & Erin Cuomo, for a $250 donation. • Susan Curley, for a $100 donation. • Dianne Davison, for a $25 donation to the Physick Estate in honor of Doris W. Radcliffe. • Susan DeHart, for a $300 donation. • Frank & Diane DePaolo, for a $100 donation. • Daniel & Mary DeWaters, for a $100 donation. • Ayeshah Dickerson, for a $35 donation. • Terry & Ronald Diubaldi, for a $50 donation. • Sheila Dugan, for a $30 donation to the Physick Estate in memory of Judy Heinle. • Caroline Dupree, for a $140 donation to the World War II Lookout Tower, and a $140 donation to the Physick Estate. • Jan & Peter Dwyer, for a $200 donation. • Michael & Rosemary Eden, for a $200 donation. • Kate Emerson (Abigail Adams Apartments), for a $100 donation. • Roger & Heather Furlin, for a $100 donation. • Joseph & Elizabeth Garner, for two $250 donations. • Anne & William George, for a $25 donation. • Anne O. George, for a $25 donation. • Patricia Gregorio, for a $20 donation. • Mary Gretsch, for a $15 donation. • Scott Griffith, for a $100 donation. • Mary Beth Hager, for a $25 donation to the Physick Estate in honor of Verna Coughlin for Mother’s Day. • Karen & Kevin Hammeran, for a $100 donation. • Vali Heist, for a $25 donation to the Physick Estate in honor of Barbara Lamont. • Faith Hvisdas, for a $10 donation. • Nancy & Scott Holland, for a $100 donation. • Stephen & Sue Irving, for a $200 donation in memory of Betty Moffatt. • Maria Kastner, for a $100 donation. • Marjorie Katity, for a $100 donation in memory of George E. Katity. • Elizabeth Keenan, for a $25 donation. • Stephen & Laurie Kern, for a $100 donation in memory of Gertrude Kern. • Sharon Kewish, for a $35 donation. • William Killeen & Barbara Bitner-Killeen, for a $1,000 donation. • Eileen Kirk-Lazaroff, for a $100 donation in memory of Walter Lazaroff. • Marykay Klara, for a $20 donation in memory of her father, James A. McCaughan, Sr. • Bob & Becky Kriebel, for a $100 donation. www.capemaymac.org
Scarecrow Alley Begins Oct. 9; Register now (see Pg. 6 for details)
• Steven & Jean Krupinski, for a $200 donation. • Carol Kunkel, for a $50 donation. • David & Myra Kurkowski, for a $50 donation in memory of Betty Moffatt. • Bob & Terri Lamendola, for a $500 donation. • Dawn Lewis, for $20 donation. • Darcy & Fred Litt, for a $20 donation. • Margaret Lonzetta, for a $25 donation. • Eliza Lotozo, for a $100 donation. • Sue Lotozo (The Flying Fish Studio), for a $1,320 donation. • Deborah & John Lukens, for a $100 donation. • Phyllis Magaletto-Makai & Steven Makai, for a $25 donation. • Lucy Mares, for a $25 donation In Memory of good family times for the last 40 years! • Connie & Tom Martenstein, for a $100 donation. • Elizabeth Matthews, for a $112 donation. • Dawn McIntyre, for a $25 donation. • Regina McShane, for a $10 donation in memory of all those who have spent time in Cape May and are no longer with us. • Krystyna Miller, for a $100 donation. • Ralph Milnes, for a $150 donation. • Carol & Robert Mohr, for a $50 donation to help MAC. • Michele & Paul Mulligan, for a $100 donation. • Mark Nathan, for a $50 donation in honor of his mother, Marie, for Mother’s Day. Cape May MAC
• Karen New, for a $25 donation. • Kate Nichols, Sazarac Company, Inc., for the donation of hand sanitizer for the Tour Department. • Dianna & Joseph Orourke, for a $100 donation. • Barbara Pacheco, for a $50 donation. • Ken Piontkowski, for a $20 donation. • Sue Priester (The Priester Foundation), for an $8,000 donation. • Kenneth Quigley, Jr., for a $10 donation. • Annie Roberts, for a $150 donation. • Ellen Rodowicz, for a $25 donation to the Physick Estate for Mother’s Day in memory of her mom, Sandra Berry Moser. • Joseph Ross, Jr., for a $500 donation in honor of the Continental Navy and the service of Lieutenant Hopley Yeaton. • Viviane & Ken Rowan, for a $25 donation in memory of Betty Moffatt. • John & Carla Schaeffer, for a $100 donation. • Lauren & Marc Shenfield, for a $1,000 donation. • Kelly Shenk, for a $15 donation. • Karen & Paul Sherbine, for a $100 donation in memory of Beverly & Art Hausker. • Harley & Denise Shuler, for a $50 donation. • Carole & George Sick, for a $100 donation. • Ashi Sirin, for a $20 donation. • Sharon Somers, for a $100 donation. • Anne Stephany, for a $25 donation.
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) Summer 2020 • Page 9
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S Donations (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) • Mary & Sandy Stewart, for a $200 donation. • Mary Stewart, for a $25 donation to the Physick Estate in memory of her Grandmother, Margaret Mary Gallagher Heron. • Robert Stewart & Barbara BarnettStewart, for a $50 donation. • Pamela Teichgraber, for a $10 donation. • Barbara Thomas, for a $50 donation. • William Thomas, for a $50 donation. • Mark Thompson, for a $10 donation to the Physick Estate. • Bridget Tibbetts, for a $100 donation. • Jill & Richard Traister, for a $25 donation to the Physick Estate. • Michael Venner, for a $250 donation • Jerelyn Wilson & Alex, for a $50 donation. • Victoria Wagner, for a $75 donation. • Peter Walsh, for a $25 donation. • Ben & Michelle Werner, for donating a lawn mower for the Physick Estate. • Jack & Arlette Wright, for a $100 donation.
Assistance
• Jill Bellarmino, for her Curatorial assistance in Physick House Museum. • Janet Coupland, for serving as curator of the 50th Anniversary Exhibit, writing and recording the Trolley Tour Video, researching and writing the new Magic & Mystery House Tour, and researching and writing the new Painted Ladies, Porches and More! Walking Tour. • Jan Dwyer, for preparing the Physick Estate gardens for the Spring Garden Tour. • Rosalie Gallagher, for her assistance with the Roots of Cape Island Trolley Tour. • Roger Henry, for polishing brass on the trolleys and the model T. • Barbara Hubmaster, for clipping newspaper articles related to Cape May MAC. • Brenda Leonard, for developing programming for the Friends of MAC Museum Education Facebook Group. • Carol Lindsay, for preparing the Physick Estate gardens for the Spring Garden Tour. • Bill McCray, for preparing the Physick Estate gardens for the Spring Garden Tour. • Dave Morais, for power washing the brick area behind the Carriage House and inside the tent, and for helping move items into storage. • Dave Morais & Kathy Morais, for helping switch the Trolley windows to soft sides for Page 10 • Summer 2020
Bill McCray of West Cape May, Cape May MAC’s Gardener, put in 140 hours of volunteer work this spring during the COVID-19 shutdown and quarantine, preparing and maintaining the grounds for reopening.
Summer. • Sophie Palmer, for her work on Museum Education Instagram Live presentations and for composing original music for the Harriet Tubman short film. • Emily Newnam & Ben Kopp, for participating in the creation of a video virtual climb of the Cape May Lighthouse. • Ben Ridings, for researching and contributing educational content for multimedia and use in Museum Education. • Adam, Mandy, Juniper & Marigold Sober for participating in the promotional video for Cape May MAC’s Breakfast with the Pirates. • Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton, for recording a message for our virtual Armed Forces Day Celebration.
Volunteers
Cape May Lighthouse Volunteers: Ayeshah Dickerson, Jan Dwyer, Lorrie Filter, Donna Flegal, George Fore, Kage Grossi, Carol Haggas, Charlie Kealy, Peggy Ose, Larry Ryan, Mary Stewart, Carol Ulmer, Susan Wiggins, Ernestine Zeli-Bove. Physick Estate Grounds Volunteers: Tom Carroll, Jake Cuomo, Jan Dwyer, Walt Garbriel, Bob Gorgone, Roger Henry, Carol Lindsay, Dave Morais, Joe Noll, Bill Schlitzer, Harley Shuler, Mike Smith, Denny Sweetman. Cape May MAC
Spring Celebration Garden Tour Homeowners: The Bowne Residence (Marty & Lenore Bowne), The Courtney Residence (Marian & Phil Courtney), The Kurtz Residence (Bill (Yogi) & Karen Kurtz), The Maggie McKean (John & Cheryl Gulish), Somewhere in Time (Deb Payson). Spring Celebration Garden Tour Volunteers: Tina Angstadt, Cathy Baldacchini, Pat Bowman, Melanie Bateman, Maryjane Bryant, Kimberly Cotton, Jan Dwyer, Susan Esposito, Donna Flegal, Carol Haggas, Roger Henry, Dave Morais, Kathy Morais, Mary Stewart, Susan Wiggins, Stacey Wiswall, Ernestine Zeli-Bove.
Congratulations
Volunteers of the Month MAY: Ray Rebmann JUNE: Sue Lotozo JULY: Tom Grayson
www.capemaymac.org
Recent Happenings (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) to what was going on in Cape May. Our monthly newsletter became weekly and featured profiles of our staff who were working so hard behind the scenes. We also encouraged our Members to continue their generous support, through donations, renewed Memberships and advance ticket purchases. To cut costs, we went digital with our quarterly newsletter and converted This Week in Cape May to a digital format as well. While we were no longer distributing the printed version, going digital allowed us to provide additional services to our advertisers; we introduced a new, wider audience to This Week In Cape May through email blasts and we linked every ad back to the advertisers’ websites. Our Advertising Rep Joe McLaughlin also created a web page that showed what businesses were open and what services they offered. This popular feature is still available on www. capemaymac.org. With assistance from Mayor Chuck Lear and City Manager Jerry Inderweis, we received permission via Executive Order 147 to go ahead with our Spring Garden Tour on June 13. Manager of Volunteer Services Ayeshah Dickerson managed to put together a beautiful array of gardens and the volunteer crew necessary to staff the. We were delighted that the event sold out with 150 avid garden buffs on tour. We could have easily sold much more, while adhering to the social distancing guidelines, but glad we erred on the side of safety. See the Thank You Department for a list of the homeowners and volunteers who made the day successful for us.
Capitalizing on the success of the open-air Spring Garden Tour, Tour Manager Nanci Coughlin and her folks came up with the Painted Ladies, Porches & More Walking Tour which debuted on June 14. The 45-minute tour was limited to six guests to maintain social distancing and departed from the Physick Estate. We’ve been offering it three days a week ever since. The next day we were able to open the Carriage House Museum Shop and Carroll Gallery to the public, though without the fanfare we had planned for March and with a much smaller capacity. We’re delighted that our visitors can enjoy the 50th Anniversary Exhibit in person and appreciate the thought and hard work that Guest Curator Janet Coupland invested in it. Vintage BYOB opened on June 15 as well. This is the reincarnated restaurant at the Physick Estate, a partnership with the folks at the Kara Restaurant Group. You may know them better as the creative group behind George’s, YB, Scola and Shamone. They’ve created a modern, eclectic, and delicious dining experience at the Physick Estate that very much honors the location. It’s also dog-friendly, has plenty of outside seating, and offers takeout! If you haven’t had the opportunity to try it yet, remember that Cape May MAC Members get a 15 percent discount, and wines from Cape May Winery to accompany your meals are available at the Carriage House Museum Shop. We have been slowly ratcheting up our level of activity. The Cape May Lighthouse opened June 22 with shortened hours and significant capacity limits. The state-approved plan permits 10 visitors in the Lighthouse at any one time. The
Cape May Music Festival (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) in a variety of guest artists and repertoire. As you can imagine, there are a myriad of technical details to be worked out. We will keep you up to date with our programming plans as they unfold. We still plan to have two live performances, however. Backtrack Vocals, an a capella group, will perform on the Bandstand at Rotary Park on Saturday, Sept. 19 (rain date Sunday, Sept. 20) and Atlantic Brass Band will grace the outdoor stage on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate during our Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 21. All details will be available on our website, capemaymac.org. As always, we are grateful to the New Jersey State Council on the Arts for their continued and unflagging support of this www.capemaymac.org
series during this unsettled period. Please remember these plans are subject to the unfolding response to Covid 19. We will constantly update our website as the situation requires. We are also grateful to the many businesses and individuals who have continued to pledge their support of the series. We are hopeful that we will return to live performance for the 2021 Music Festival and are awaiting the announcement from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts on funding for the 2021 season. We eagerly anticipate the return of our ensembles in residence, the New York Chamber Ensemble and the Bay Atlantic Symphony, and the joy of live music in our venues. -- MES
following week, based on this model, we were permitted to open the World War II Lookout Tower. Finally, after months of inactivity, we were delighted to receive permission to restart tours at our flagship historic site, the Emlen Physick House Museum, on July 5. Tours are limited to six visitors per floor so every visitor gets a very intimate experience now. And, on July 24, we were able to put our open-air trolleys (also with limited capacity to adhere to social distancing requirements) back on the road so new generations of visitors can enjoy their Cape May experience. -- MES
Educational Outreach We keep moving forward in the Museum Education Division: adapting talks, experiences, and lectures into digital formats and webinars for learners of all ages. Thanks to contributions from Brenda Leonard, Donna Szemcsak, Mary Stewart, Ben Ridings, and Rich Chimiengo, we are ushering in a new wave of educational opportunities for students and adults alike. Shorts films have been produced prodigiously on a range of topics. Our Instagram Live series saw great interest through the months of quarantine. Special thanks to Susan Krysiak, Cathy Baldacchini, and Leslie Weidel who assisted in our foray into new media, and a heartfelt thank you to volunteer Sophie Palmer, without whom our online programs would not have been possible: scoring our Great Humans in History presentation, propmaking for online talks, and becoming indispensable in the instruction and use of film editing software. We have been communicating with schools and senior facilities offering custom content for ondemand use during these trying times. We are tailoring outreach from history and culture to music and interactive art. Going forward, we will be doing all that we can to keep our public plugged in to what we do in Museum Education, adjusting our approach to ensure the health and safety of our patrons and educators. We have made our Friends Of Museum Education Facebook page a haven for teachers and home educators to share ideas and explore history, as well as fans of what we do, so we can all “visit” virtually and learn as we go. Museum Education is making changes, and it seems each day we discover a new way to connect with our visitors. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” -- MP2
Cape May MAC
Summer 2020 • Page 11
Lessons of History (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) “Give ’Em Hell, Harry!” at Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave. on Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021, at 5 p.m. The performance, a faithful and often humorous portrayal of President Truman’s life and presidency that has garnered awards and accolades since its premiere in 1975, will be followed by a Q&A session with Daniel. Since October 2017, Daniel has performed the role, marking the first time a U.S. president has been portrayed onstage by a direct descendant. The performance was originally scheduled for Oct. 11 of this year; after much consideration, the decision was made to postpone until next year. “This year is surely different for all of us,” said Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series founder Myles Martel, Ph.D. “In this spirit and with great regret, the Lessons of History Team has decided that this year’s Cape May MAC-sponsored program, “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry!,” has to be re-scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021. This team decision is based on protecting our guests’ safety, health and comfort level.” Clifton Truman Daniel and his agent have been remarkably cooperative, “classy, even,” Martel said, in agreeing to postpone the program. “Ticket sales for this event were brisk until COVID-19 surfaced as such a defining force in our lives,” he said. Cape May MAC’s Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series presents a national speaker every year in October in an engaging and in-depth talk on an important topic of history. This will be the ninth event in
the series and the first time a performance, rather than a lecture, will be featured. The play spans Truman’s childhood, his “political apprenticeship” as a judge in Jackson County, Missouri, his years in the U.S. Senate and his momentous two terms as president. Set in the Oval Office, the play is a historically accurate portrayal of the 33rd president of the United States, teeming with delightful humor. The title comes from an incident that took place during the 1948 presidential election campaign. In Bremerton, Washington, Truman delivered a speech attacking the Republicans. During the speech, a supporter yelled out, “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry!” Truman replied, “I don’t give them Hell. I just tell the truth about them, and they think it’s Hell.” Subsequently, “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry!” became a lifetime slogan for Truman supporters. Daniel is the oldest grandson of President Harry S. Truman and first lady, Bess Truman. He is the son of author Margaret Truman and former New York Times Managing Editor E. Clifton Daniel, Jr. Daniel is honorary chairman of the board of the Truman Library Institute, Kansas City, Missouri, and board secretary of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation. He is author of “Growing Up with My Grandfather: Memories of Harry S. Truman” and “Dear Harry, Love Bess: Bess Truman’s Letters to Harry Truman, 19191943.” In addition to portraying his famous grandfather on stage, Daniel is a soughtafter lecturer on various aspects of the Truman presidency, as well as United States and White House history. As an actor, Daniel has appeared in more
than a dozen productions with Wilmington, North Carolina’s Opera House Theatre Company, including Ensign Pulver in “Mr. Roberts,” Nathan Detroit in “Guys and Dolls,” Mortimer Brewster in “Arsenic and Old Lace,” Randle P. McMurphy in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” and Antonio Salieri in “Amadeus.” He has also had supporting roles in two episodes of “Matlock” and played Roma Downey’s husband in the never-aired pilot for “Touched by an Angel.” Daniel most recently portrayed the role of President Harry S. Truman, his grandfather, in the award-winning independent film, “Second Samuel,” from Director/Executive Producer/Co-writer J. Wayne Patterson, Jr. Those who have already purchased tickets and would like to place them on hold for next year are encouraged to do so. Those who prefer a refund may contact Janice Corkery at jcorkery@capemaymac. org, or 609-224-6027. “Give ’Em Hell, Harry! The life and presidency of Harry S. Truman as portrayed by his grandson Clifton Truman Daniel” will be presented on Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021, at 5 p.m. at Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave. Tickets are $40 adults, $15 students and teachers. Tickets are limited. To purchase tickets, call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org. The performance will be followed by a Q&A and a complimentary meet-the-speaker reception with refreshments. This event is co-sponsored by Cape May MAC and Martel & Associates (Myles & Leslie Martel). -- SK
Museum Shops offer online sales Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) is now offering retail items for sale online! Director of Retail Operations Sharon Falkowski said the online store has been of great interest to people right now who have not had a chance yet to visit Cape May this summer. “We are very excited to launch our online store here at Cape May MAC,” she said. “Originally, it was a way to generate revenue during our three-month shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The response was so positive, though, that we have decided to make it an integral component for our retail division.” Items for sale include T-shirts, books and ornaments, and more is on the way. “For those who are still wary of travel and miss visiting Cape May’s historic sites, Page 12 • Summer 2020
it’s a way to capture a little of that Cape May MAC magic,” Falkowski said. “Right now, we have about a dozen items online, but we’re hoping to expand that in the near future.” Popular items, Falkowski said, have been books, especially Ben Miller’s “The First Resort,” and “I Climbed the Lighthouse” T-Shirts. Proceeds from Cape May MAC’s Museum Shops help support the ongoing preservation of Cape May’s historic sites. Visit our online shop now, at https:// capemaymac.org/shop/
Cape May MAC’s Director/CEO Jody Alessandrine models one of the online shop’s popular items. Cape May MAC
www.capemaymac.org
Vintage (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) this venture, and are so pleased we can offer visitors to the Physick Estate this great amenity.” Cape May MAC partnered with KARA Restaurant Group to oversee its restaurant operation beginning this year. KARA operates some of the most successful and exciting restaurants in the Cape May region — George’s Place, Scola, Shamone, YB — and now Vintage, featuring menu items that are unique, as co-owner Chef Nikolaos “Niko” Goutzouris describes them, and “wild.” Vintage is open seven days a week from 11am-4pm and 5pm-8pm and offers a brunch menu and select options for dinner. “I want to appeal to a broader crowd,” said Niko. “To everyone — young and old.” Niko said the menu can appeal to those who like to try something creative as well as those who enjoy the familiar. “You go to a lot of restaurants and you always see the same things. We want to make something that’s different, completely, but with one or two items that are familiar. Our menu is something more unique, more wild.” The brunch menu features choices like Patra, a refreshing Greek yoghurt with honey, granola and fresh fruit. Pancake Charcuterie, a delightful and substantial breakfast for two or more people. Cheesecake waffles. Blackberry, brie, and bacon grilled cheeses. Angus burgers with thick spread goat cheese and arugula. The dinner menu is perfect for a romantic
evening. Chef selections include Wild Boar Bolognaise with Pappardelle Pasta and Manchego, duck confit, salmon, crab, pork ribeye and more. An Apps menu provides delicious and intriguing choices to try a variety of beautifully prepared smaller dishes. The Carriage House Museum Shop is a licensed retail outlet for Cape May Winery wines and they can be enjoyed with brunch or dinner. Stop in the shop when you arrive. Customers can also bring their own. Some light, sophisticated fare like quality
cheeses, a bread board or charcuterie are also on the menu. There’s no shame in salivating over the wild delights that will awaken your palate during your next visit to the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate. Call 609–224–6064 for reservations & takeout orders. Open daily. Brunch is 11am to 4pm and dinner selections are offered 5pm to 8pm. Parking is free at the Physick Estate. Vintage is dog-friendly, has plenty of outside seating and take-out is available. -- SK
VIEW THE MENU
Vintage’s location beneath the tent and on the brick patio behind the Carriage House offers plenty of space for social distancing. Visitors can bring their own, or purchase a bottle of wine from a selection of Cape May Winery products.
www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC
Summer 2020 • Page 13
A message from the Director:
MAC needs your support Cape May MAC is pleased to have been permitted to resume some of our operations. The Cape May Lighthouse and World War II Lookout Tower re-opened in late June, the Emlen Physick House Museum in early July, and our trolleys began to roll again in late July. We have steadfastly adhered to all government-mandated restrictions and precautions, including capacity limits, social distancing, providing PPE, disinfecting, and regular cleaning. The distancing has understandably caused a drastic reduction in capacity and thus ticket sales. Meanwhile, unbudgeted precautionary expenditures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic have been costly. Further complicating matters, all four of our traditionally well-attended Physick Estate Festivals have been cancelled. Cape May MAC is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. Now more than ever, we need those whose lives have been enriched by Cape May MAC’s bevy of cultural experiences over our 50-year history to show your appreciation, so that we can continue to fulfill our mission on your behalf, and for future generations. All donations are most welcome and appreciated, as are ticket purchases for any number of Cape May MAC tours and events that can be used either now or at a later date. And Cape May MAC memberships make a great gift for any occasion. Absolutely everything truly helps. And please don’t forget to patronize our local businesses while in town, many of whom help support us through advertising in “The Week in Cape May” and as event sponsors. Seasonal businesses, especially, don’t have as much time to recover from challenging economic times. Sincerest wishes for a healthy rest of the summer to you and all yours.
DONATE TO MAC
Jody Alessandrine Director/CEO