VOLUME LII, ISSUE 1
Newsletter www.capemaymac.org
WINTER 2022
‘A Diamond of Their Own’ exhibit opens GRANTS UPDATE: CAPE MAY - An exhibit celebrating the history of baseball’s Negro Leagues is open through April 30 at the Carroll Gallery in the Carriage House on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., Cape May, N.J. Admission is free. “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues as portrayed by artist Sydnei SmithJordan,” is presented by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) and Center for Community Arts (CCA), in partnership with artist Sydnei SmithJordan. The exhibit features original artwork created by SmithJordan and artist Chanelle René, that celebrates the indomitable spirit and talent of the men and women who played for the Negro Leagues. The exhibit includes vintage baseball memorabilia and artifacts, courtesy of CCA, The Dempsey family, Mark Kulkowitz, SmithJordan, and Janis Washington White, including historic photos and text from the early days of the Negro Leagues. White, a fifth generation West Cape May
Physick Estate work has begun
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Shown here, at the exhibit opening Jan. 15 at the Carroll Gallery, members of the team that organized and curated the exhibit, from left: Janis Washington White, Chanelle René, Cape May MAC COO Melissa Payne, Rose Traficante (front), Chris Traficante, Sydnei SmithJordan, and CCA Director David Mackenzie.
native, is a descendant of members of the Cape May Giants, Cape May’s direct link (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14)
Work is underway at the Physick Estate on the three New Jersey Historic Trust grants announced last fall. Shortly into the new year, Robert Russell of HMR Architects, Princeton, N.J., and his team embarked upon two planning studies and one capital project. Cape May MAC also received a matching historic preservation grant for the capital project from the Cape May County Open Spaces Program. The total for all four grants is $158,335. According to Robert Russell, AIA, a partner at HMR, the first planning grant is for a Site Management Plan, which includes examination of all eight original historic outbuildings, and the later constructions that provide needed space for Cape May MAC’s operations. Where appropriate, changes will be proposed to maximize the use of historic structures for public activities while potentially housing the organizational needs in non-historic facilities. The second planning grant provides initial funding to plan for systems improvement for the environmental conditioning within the 143-year-old Physick House Museum to enhance the visitor’s experience while also preserving the historic building fabric and its some 6,000 works of art, including furnishings. The capital grant is funding improvements for fire safety and energy (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14)
In This Issue Celebrate a light in your life with lighthouse pavers LOWER TOWNSHIP - Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) is offering a limited opportunity to celebrate a light in your life with a permanent fixture at the Cape May Lighthouse. The pathway at the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse is being
repaved and will include a limited number of engraved bricks. Honor someone special to you with this fixture as a remembrance or simply celebrate your own or your (CONTINUED ON PAGE 14)
Meet the President........................Page 5 Membership News ......................Page 9 Partner Profile.................................Page 6 Recent Happenings...................... Page 2 Thank You Department......Pages 10-13 Winter Schedule.............................Page 7
RECENT HAPPENINGS Fall/Holiday Wrap-Up We always know it’s November at the Physick Estate because that’s when the elves arrive to start the installation of the Old-Fashioned Christmas exhibit. It takes a full three weeks for the exhibit to be ready for prime time. David Barraclough organized the installation, helped by Mom Jean Barraclough, kids Reese and Mathew, and Barbara Hubmaster, Eunice and Robert Hudzik. Paul Smargiassi and his crew must transport all those plastic hampers (42 of them) of Dept. 56 Dickens Village house from the basement to the Carroll Gallery in between stringing those thousands of twinkle lights around the estate. Our Tour Schedule does slow down but it is still a busy time. Curator Ben Ridings and Registrar Donna Szemcsak convened their volunteers on Nov. 17 and 18 for the Physick Estate decorating and Retail Director Sharon Falkowski with help from Chief Outreach Strategist Mary Stewart worked their magic in the Carriage House Museum Shop. The plan was coming together! In and around the Christmas preparations, we gathered at the Cape May Lutheran Church Hall on Nov. 18 for our Annual Meeting. The high point of the afternoon was the announcement that Lee and Jill Bellarmino were honored with Cape May MAC’s Honor Award. The couple have been dedicated supporters and donors and have freely given many hours to the organization. Lee has served on the Board of Trustees for six years and Jill has been a very faithful volunteer in the Curator’s Office for the same time. We are extremely grateful
Photos by Joseph Evangelista
The award-winning Atlantic Brass Band wowed the crowds with holiday favorites during the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Emlen Physick Estate Saturday, Nov. 20, helping launch Cape May’s Christmas season of tours, activities and events. Santa arrived to huge excitement greeting one and all and flipped the switch on the huge Christmas tree on the estate, which this year was nearby the outdoor stage.
for their dedication. We had a new event for Holiday Preview Weekend. Thanks to the cooperation of Mother Nature, we were able to squeeze in one last Lighthouse Full Moon Climb before the holiday tours began. Thanks to the sponsorship of Sturdy Savings Bank, we held our Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 20. The Atlantic Brass Band opened the evening with a concert of rousing Christmas music. After remarks
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, Sara Kornacki, Susan Krysiak, Anna Marie Leeper and Mary E. Stewart
OUR MISSION Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) 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 Page 2 • Winter 2022
Cape May MAC’s public history programs are funded in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission in the Department of State.
by Cape May Mac Director/CEO Jody Alessandrine and Cape May Mayor Zack Mullock, we were ready for the star of our show. Santa appeared and flipped the switch, and our holiday season was officially under way. Director of Visitor Services Janice Corkery worked her magic setting up the Holiday Crafts & Collectibles Show. This two-day event in Convention Hall is a perennial favorite for both vendors and visitors. Our museum shops at the Carriage House and Cape May Lighthouse and our on-line shop also provided opportunities for those looking for unusual Christmas gifts. We were happy to return to live tours this year. With the cooperation of the innkeeping community, we were able to assemble a full slate of properties for the Lamplighter Christmas Tours, Holiday Inns Tours, and our venerable Christmas Candlelight House Tours. Attendance at these was strong, with many evenings near sell-out. We were excited to add a new trolley tour this season. Compiled by Ben Ridings and Donna Szemcsak, the tour was named “All that Glitters: Victorians Ring in the New Century.” Our visitors travelled through Cape May of 1899 with a friend of the Physick Family shopping for the biggest (CONTINUED ON PAGE 15)
Cape May MAC
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Coming
ATTRACTIONS 609-884-5404 • www.capemaymac.org • 800-275-4278
More About Music Lectures with Brenda Leonard
Join this series of occasional lectures presented by Brenda Leonard designed to increase your knowledge and enjoyment of classical music. Brenda is a cellist with the Bay Atlantic Symphony. She has a doctorate in cello from the University of South Carolina, a master’s degree in cello and a bachelor’s degree in music history. She has taught cello at Clemson University, North Greenville University, Anderson University, and the University of South Carolina, and taught for 30-plus years in her private studio. These events will be held live at the Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin St., in Cape May, and livestreamed on YouTube for viewing at home. Click THIS LINK the day of the event. The Feb. 9 program may be viewed here: More About Music: A Brief History of Western Art Music Upcoming programs are:
Looking at the Architecture of Western Music
Wednesday, March 9: 11am: The more you know, the more you can enjoy classical music presentations. Presented by Bay Atlantic Symphony cellist Brenda Leonard.
Digging into Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony
Wednesday, April 6: 11am: Learn more about this iconic piece of music which will be performed at the Bay Atlantic Symphony’s June 30 concert. Presented by Bay Atlantic Symphony cellist Brenda Leonard.
Lunch & Learn
Wednesday, March 16: noon: Join Ben Ridings on March 16 for a Virtual Lunch & Learn presentation on Irish culture. Register for this program. CLICK HERE.
Presidents Day Weekend Feb. 18-21: Come in from the cold for the Crafts & Collectibles in Winter show in Cape May Convention Hall, Saturday, Feb. 19-Sunday, Feb. 20, from 10am-4pm. Hear about spirits beyond the here and now during Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tours Feb. 19 and 20 at 7pm and 8pm. Enjoy an Emlen Physick Estate Tour or Combination Physick Estate/ Historic District Trolley Tour. Go on a Physick Estate Scavenger Hunt or Cape May Family Treasure Hunt. Gear up and be one of the few to climb the Cape May Lighthouse in winter, open from 12Noon-3pm. CLICK HERE to learn more.
2022 CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL Join us for a resounding return to an all-live music schedule for the longest running music festival in Cape May, with some exciting new additions. Sunday, May 1: 10am Jazz Brunch at Vintage with Stan Slotter and Ray Mallach, $50 adults, $45 MAC members. Wednesday, May 4: 12:30pm Bach’s Lunch at Vintage, $50 adults, $45 MAC members. Thursday, May 5: 7pm New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Chamber Players, the Episcopal of the Advent $30 Adults, $25 MAC members and $20 Students under 18.
Physick Estate Tour Theme Spring 2022:
Saturday, May 14 (rain date May 15): 7pm Nora Jane Struthers at the Emlen Physick Estate Stage $30 Adults, $25 MAC members and $20 Students under 18.
“Meet the Staff: The Work and Life of Dr. Physick’s Employees”
Wednesday, May 25: 12:30pm Bach’s Lunch at Vintage, $50 adults, $45 MAC members. Thursday, May 26: 7pm New York Chamber Ensemble at the Episcopal Church of the Advent $30 Adults, $25 MAC members and $20 Students under 18. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4)
Like many upper-class families of the era, Dr. Physick hired numerous people to work at his estate. Learn about the staff, their duties, and their importance to the Physick family and the community on a tour of the Emlen Physick Estate.
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Cape May MAC
Winter 2022 • Page 3
Coming
Sunday, May 29: 7pm Atlantic Brass Band at Rotary Park (rain location Convention Hall) Free admission.
ATTRACTIONS 609-884-5404 • www.capemaymac.org • 800-275-4278
ARMED FORCES DAY CEREMONY AT THE WORLD WAR II LOOKOUT TOWER
Saturday, May 21: 11am: Pay tribute to the dedicated men and women who have helped preserve our freedom at the World War II Lookout Tower on Sunset Boulevard. Free admission. Tower is located on Sunset Boulevard in Lower Township, near Cape May Point.
Gardens of Cape May Tours Saturday, May 21: 1pm-4pm, Saturday, June 25: 1pm-4pm Here is your invitation to step past the frontage and explore the plants and blooms of some of the Cape May area’s most dedicated gardeners, and more. See both public and private gardens and bring back landscaping ideas to your own backyard. Cape May’s Emlen Physick Estate gardens are included. $25 per person, including children ages 3-12. CLICK HERE for more information.
Carroll Gallery Exhibit
“The Victorian Tool Box: Necessities, Curiosities, Frivolities”
Sunday, June 5: 7pm George Mesterhazy Tribute Concert at Cape May Convention Hall $35 Adults, $30 MAC members and $25 Students under 18. Thursday, June 9: 7pm New York Chamber Ensemble at Episcopal Church of the Advent $30 Adults, $25 MAC members and $20 Students under 18. Friday, June 10: 3pm Friends of the Cape May Music Festival Event at Vintage $50 Adults and $45 MAC members. Wednesday, June 15: 12:30pm Bach’s Lunch at Vintage $50 adults, $45 MAC members. Thursday, June 16: 7pm Bay Atlantic Symphony at Episcopal Church of the Advent $30 Adults, $25 MAC members and $20 Students under 18. Thursday, June 23: 7pm New York Chamber Ensemble at Episcopal Church of the Advent $30 Adults, $25 MAC members and $20 Students under 18.
May 27-Oct. 31: See this exhibit of the tools that Dr. Physick and his staff would have used on the estate in the 19th and early 20th century, along with some of the luxury items the family used. Learn about the realities of working life for those who worked here to earn their living. Free admission. Open daily.
10th Annual Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series:
“Is War with China Inevitable?” Sunday, Oct. 9: 5pm: Dr. Steven David, Ph.D., professor at Johns Hopkins, an authority on international relations and three-time winner of the university’s “Outstanding Teacher Award,” presents “Is War with China Inevitable?” in Cape May in this year’s annual Distinguished Lecture Series. David will speak on the critical issue of whether the rise of China makes a Sino-American war inevitable. Many scholars have argued that war is virtually certain when a rising power confronts the existing world leader. David’s lecture will examine both sides of this debate and offer his own views as to who is right. He looks forward to a spirited discussion with the audience on what may be the most important issue confronting America and the world in the 21st century. Click here to donate to the Lessons of History Fund. CLICK HERE for more information. -- SK Page 4 • Winter 2022
Cape May MAC
Saturday, June 25 (rain date June 26): 7pm Paula Johns at the Emlen Physick Estate Stage $30 Adults, $25 MAC members and $20 Students under 18. Thursday, June 30: 7pm Bay Atlantic Symphony at Cape May Convention Hall $35 Adults, $30 MAC members and $25 Students under 18.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS, CLICK HERE
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MEET THE PRESIDENT: Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) Board President Brian Groetsch sat down with Director of Media Relations Susan Krysiak as the organization begins a new phase in leadership. Groetsch began his term as president on Jan. 1, 2022, after being nominated in November 2021 and elected by the membership. He is currently the co-owner and Broker of Record of RE/ MAX Surfside in Cape May.
understand their needs and wants. I believe the same goes with leadership in a board room. My role as President isn’t necessarily to lead a discussion but to make sure that everyone at the table has had an opportunity to participate in the conversation and feel heard as the group makes decisions that will impact its members, volunteers, staff and the community that Cape May MAC serves. SUSAN : What do you see as the important role or roles of the President of Cape May MAC?
SUSAN: Would you tell us about your career and background, and any leadership roles and achievements that you bring to the role of President? BRIAN: I guess it depends how far back you want to go. My family has owned and operated The Stockton Inns at Beach and Howard Streets since 1974, which is where I lived until I graduated high school. My first job was working the miniature golf course at age six. At 16, I leased a retail space at The Hotel Macomber and opened a beach sundries store, which I ran by myself for the season. The next year I joined the Cape May Beach Patrol, where I worked for five years in high school and college. I attended Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Fla. for Small Business/ Entrepreneurship and graduated in 2001. While there, I joined Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity where I served as Prior (President) in 1998. I guess that would be my first real leadership role. After college I returned to Cape May with my now-wife and went to work fulltime at my family’s hotel. I was there for a few years before I decided I wanted to make a change and obtained my Real Estate License in 2004. The funny thing about real estate is that it requires very little to obtain a license — a GED and a two-week crash course and someone can trade in the single largest financial decision of most consumers’ lifetimes. So, you don’t know much when you first get your license. I soon realized that I had to seek out professional development and educational opportunities to grow my skills and my business. I completed the 18-month, six-part, REALTOR Institute, earning my G.R.I., which led to my obtaining my New Jersey Brokers License. In addition, I am a Certified Residential Specialist (C.R.S.) and Accredited Buyers Representative (A.B.R.), along with a few other certifications. On the sales side, I have received the New Jersey Realtors “Circle of Excellence” award for many years. After 10 years of receiving that honor, I was inducted into www.capemaymac.org
Brian Groetsch
the NJ Realtors “Distinguished Sales Club.” I have also been inducted into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame. Shortly after gaining my license, I became active in the REALTOR® organization, starting with creating the Education Committee with my business partner Christine. From there I served on various committees and was elected to the Board of Directors for both the Cape May County Association of REALTORS® and Multiple Listing Service, where I served as President for both 2011 and 2012. I’ve also served as a member of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee as well as a Division Officer for the New Jersey REALTORS® and on multiple committees for the National Association of REALTORS®. Locally, I have been active with various organizations. I’ve coached Little League Baseball and served several years as a member of their Board of Directors. I am also in my third year as an elected member of the West Cape May Board of Education. In addition to Cape May MAC, my business is an active supporter of the Andy Boyt Memorial Fund and the Cape May Food Closet. SUSAN: What specific skills have you developed in your life and career that you feel will be useful to draw on in your role as President? BRIAN: My education and experiences up to this point have taught me that one of the most important skills is the ability to listen. One of my favorite quotes is from Dr. Steven Covey who said that one “should seek first to understand, and then to be understood.” Before I can be considered a trusted source for a client, I need to demonstrate that I
BRIAN: My focus will be to do whatever I can to support our new director as he leads us through the pandemic. Coming in behind Michael Zuckerman was a tall enough order for most, but (Cape May MAC Director and CEO) Jody (Alessandrine) was met with both a major rebranding campaign and a global pandemic. Jody and his team have done great work throughout the pandemic, which will make Cape May MAC an even stronger organization when it is finally behind us. SUSAN: What is your connection to Cape May? How will your knowledge of this town and its people improve your leadership at Cape May MAC? BRIAN: I was born and raised in Cape May, growing up behind the desk of The Stockton Inns which has been owned and operated by my family since 1974. Prior to my involvement with the Board, my knowledge of “MAC” was largely limited to the Physick Estate, Lighthouse, trolleys and tours that I would see on the rack cards in the motel lobby. It wasn’t until I became involved with the Board that I came to understand the vast amount of programming that is produced by Cape May MAC each year and just how integral it is to the overall Cape May “Experience.” In my career as a Real Estate Broker, I have had countless clients tell me in one way or another that Cape May was “just different” from other shore towns, which is what draws them to town whether as a vacationer or a resident. I believe the “difference” is largely attributable to Cape May MAC and many of the other non-profit organizations that bring Cape May to life for its residents and visitors. I feel it’s my role as a leader to help shine a light on all the good things Cape May MAC is up to and its tremendous impact on the local economy and the community. -- SK
Cape May MAC
Winter 2022 • Page 5
PARTNER PROFILE: The Bedford Inn Paula Murray has been a strong partner of Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) since she and her brother, Marc Jacoby, a music professor at West Chester University, and her sister-in-law, Marc’s wife Roxanne Went, purchased The Bedford Inn in April 2019. The Bedford Inn, 805 Stockton Ave., is one of Cape May’s lovely Victorian bed & breakfast inns with 10 rooms that accommodate guests from spring through the New Year. The inn serves guests homemade cookies in the afternoon, breakfast in the morning and coffee and tea are always available. This year will be their fourth season operating the inn. Paula is the on-site owner/innkeeper and has loved every busy minute of it. “During the season I lose weight,” she said, with a laugh. “There are days I am going up and down those stairs 40 times.” As a Cape May MAC business partner, Paula and her brother and sister-in-law have become outstanding allies and friends to Cape May MAC. The Bedford Inn opened its doors for every Christmas house tour Cape May MAC offered in 2021 — every single one — bringing joy and hospitality to visitors that is a natural part of being both an innkeeper and a Cape May MAC partner. “We always do Sherlock Holmes Weekend and we volunteered to do every Christmas tour this year,” Paula said. “All Holiday Inn Tours, Lamplighter Christmas House Tours and Christmas Candlelight House Tours.” “There were 600-700 people for Candlelight,” Paula said. “The other tours did well, too. There were buses that came through. There were 200-300 people for each of the other tours.” The benefit that flows to Cape May MAC is clear — each guest on a house tour pays Cape May MAC an admission fee — but the benefit flows the other way, too. Paula said the inn benefits from the sheer number of people who have the chance to step across the threshold and be wowed by the inn’s ambiance and amenities, who she feels one day will return for their own getaway, or recommend the inn to friends. Paula muses on the idea of being partners. “The idea that we are partners is that, what we do affects what you do, and what you do affects what we do,” she said. “That communication is important.” The historic Bedford Inn was built in 1883 by Joseph French Page, a wealthy stockbroker, in Victorian Italianate style, a Page 6 • Winter 2022
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Paula Murray at The Bedford Inn decorated for Christmas
symmetrical building covered by a nearly flat roof, a low-pitched center gable with an oculus (round) window, and large double brackets supporting a deep overhanging cornice. He built the property for his children as a “mother-daughter” house, then sold it in 1922. The property changed hands a number of times through the 20th Century until the Schmuckers purchased it in the 1970s and converted it to an inn. In May 2005, Archie Kirk purchased the inn. The Kirk family did an extensive amount of work on the inn with new paint, wallpaper, chandeliers and beautiful murals on the dining room walls and ceilings that are so popular with guests and the inn’s hallmark. In April 2019, when Paula, Marc and Roxanne purchased the inn from the Kirk family, they made significant changes at once. They updated the cooling and heating in each room, added new landscaping and made general design changes, and the updates continue. “Every winter we do a great project,” she said. “We recently put in a garden — sustainability is important to us — and so we also have fruits and vegetables that we use from our garden in our cooking.” This winter, they are installing new hardwood flooring in the upstairs rooms, as well as giving the rooms a beautiful new paint refresh. Upgrades also include new bedding, new rugs, a new bathroom in Room 1 to complete the 10 bathroom upgrades this year, and plans to install a railing along the center of the entryway Cape May MAC
stairs to the porch. They even consider amenities and additions their guests might have suggested. ”You know there are little things like that that are going to help enhance the guest experience,” she said. Paula also hired a full-time innkeeper for the first time this year who will start March 1. The new innkeeper, Becky, has been doing much of the decorating for the inn, so she knows the Bedford very well and she lives just three blocks away. “It will be great to have somebody else … to be able to do that is amazing,” Paula said. “It’s thanks to our guests. … I think it will allow me to go to the beach every once in a while!” Paula’s housekeeper will now be focusing entirely on The Bedford this season, and Paula calls her “amazing,” along with the rest of her staff, all of whom are well-known by guests, she said. “I feel like we have a great staff that guests can see year after year. I’m very, very lucky to have the staff that we have.” With COVID-19 always a concern, Paula said they have adjusted how food is served and offered to guests, giving them a choice of having breakfast with others or in a takeaway in their room. “I am hoping this year things will get back to the way things were,” she said. “We’re just still having fun,” she said. “We have fun with our guests.” -- SK
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Expanded winter schedule offers more things to do on weekends
Photo by Frank Scott
CAPE MAY – Cape May MAC’s schedule of year-round tours, activities and events in 2020 and 2021 were pared back to comply with state mandates and out of concern for the health and safety of our guests, staff and volunteers due to COVID-19. Now, however, the schedule is beginning to rebound. Winter in Cape May is traditionally the time of year when things slow way down in America’s First Seaside Resort, and at Cape May MAC, the tours, events and activities that help drive the economic engine of this town year-round are sparse in January and February. It’s a time for planning, for renewal and reflection, for evaluation and for creative brainstorming. But this year, it’s also a time when visitors will find a slightly expanded schedule with more tour and activity options on the weekends. “In prior years during the winter months of January and February, we generally opened just on Saturdays beginning in midJanuary for the Cape May Lighthouse, the Physick House Museum and the trolley tours,” said Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine. “This year, we opened weekends without a break after the New Year’s weekend, and added the full weekend to the schedule, from Friday through Sunday, along with any Monday holidays. That continues through www.capemaymac.org
Visitors to Cape May can take a guided tour of the Physick House Museum, or a Combination Physick Estate/Historic District Trolley Tour and can also climb the Cape May Lighthouse. It’s thanks to subsidies from business community partners that Cape May MAC can offer these expanded offerings. Cape May MAC
March with some tours offered daily beginning March 1.” Visitors to Cape May can take a guided tour of the Physick House Museum, or a Combination Physick Estate/Historic District Trolley Tour, on Friday, Saturday or Sunday this winter, and can also climb the Cape May Lighthouse from 12pm to 3pm on those days. It’s thanks to subsidies from business community partners that Cape May MAC can offer these expanded hours. Partners pay $600 and receive this amount of value in trolley tour tickets to provide to their guests from January through April. Participating partners are Congress Hall, La Mer, The Grand Hotel, Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast, Icona Cape May, The Harrison, The Montreal, RE/MAX Surfside, and Coastline Realty. “We normally would offer tours only on Saturday and now we offer tours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays as well as holiday Mondays.,” said Alessandrine. “We are so grateful for the support given by our accommodations and real estate partners that allow us to offer additional tour times during this slow time of year. They are helping to attract visitors to Cape May, and we are helping to provide those visitors with interesting things to do.” -- SK
Winter 2022 • Page 7
New SwipeTrack technology eases customer and staff experiences CAPE MAY – Cape May MAC bought its first computer 39 years ago in 1983 from Radio Shack - a Tandy computer - and staff immediately dubbed it “Cupcake,” because it sounded like a popular Tastykake product. Alongside the Tandy computer was a giant (and very loud) dot-matrix printer. The pair held a place of honor in the Hill House office. Now, in 2022, Cape May MAC staff work mainly on laptops, in the cloud, enabling some to work remotely but all to be both flexible and secure in their communications and work product. When it comes to technology, there is always something new. Cape May MAC’s Information Technology (IT) Manager, Cathy Baldacchini, stays ahead of technological developments to help keep staff working smoothly, operations flowing efficiently and customers’ experiences satisfying. The latest IT project involves the addition of hardware and software called SwipeTrack to Cape May MAC operations. SwipeTrack provides three key functions for staff and customers. It allows customers to purchase certain tour tickets on their own from kiosks on the grounds, it allows staff to accept credit card purchases at large festivals like the Craft Beer, Music & Crab Festival and off-site events like the Cape May Music Festival, and it allows staff to “check in” customers who’ve purchased certain tickets in advance, like the Christmas Candlelight House Tours, when they arrive for their tours. Kiosks and terminals are fitted in place on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, in the Carriage House Museum Shop, at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth and at the Cape May Lighthouse. Once a kiosk is fully operational, customers can purchase some of Cape May MAC’s most popular tours via the self-service kiosk. The outdoor locations are cleverly housed in outbuildings: the Playhouse on the estate grounds and a new “Privy” on the lighthouse grounds. The Information Booth kiosk is located inside and is accessible via a window. Cape May MAC maintenance staff did the work of creating or retrofitting the kiosks. Now that the kiosks and most of the terminals are in place, training is ongoing, to help staff understand how to use the technology and help customers use it. The benefits flow to both the organization and to customers in the form of speed and accuracy, Baldacchini said. “We’re making sure people are in the right tour at the right time,” said Baldacchini, Page 8 • Winter 2022
Left, customers can now use these self-service kiosks outdoors on the grounds of the Physick Estate and indoors in the Carriage House Museum Shop to purchase tickets to select tours. Below, a kiosk is also located at the Cape May Lighthouse and will soon be operational there, located in a newly installed “privy” kiosk on the grounds.
regarding the check-in piece. “And it’s the speed that benefits everyone for checking in at an event like the music festival or our candlelight tours.” The self-serve kiosks are one more way customers can explore offerings and purchase tickets. “It allows us to use technology to help extend our reach for customers to purchase tickets. It’s a user-friendly environment that allows people to purchase tickets as they’re walking on the property.” Finally, with the addition of handhelds during festivals for accepting credit card purchases from festival-goers, when thousands of thirsty patrons are eager to buy a beer, accuracy and speed improve everyone’s experience. -- SK
Cape May MAC
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MEMBERSHIP NEWS Welcome New Members
President’s Circle:
William & Tina Angstadt of Cape May, NJ; Warren & Janet Coupland, of Cape May, NJ; Ruth & Garrett Stauffer of Champion, PA.
Benefactor: Bittner-Killeen.
William Killeen & Barbara
Family/Grandparent: Katie & Sam Neitz of Morrisville, PA; David Nevins & Catherine Moyal, of Cape May, NJ; Michael & Elaine Reilly of Wilmington, DE. Joint: Diane & Joseph Carlamere of Villas, NJ; Jack Cutts & Bridget Wagner of Tabernacle, NJ; Leon Brodowski & Kathy Devlin of Marlton, NJ; Naureen & John Fisher
of Towson, MD; William & Kate Fralin of Cape May, NJ; Eileen & Joseph Gallagher of Cape May, NJ; Jim & Laurine Gilbert of Cape May Point, NJ; Margean Gladysz of Tinton Falls, NJ; Christopher & Maura Gorman of Drexel Hill, PA; Charles & Beth Harris of Ijamsville, MD; David & Debbie Herman of Princeton, NJ; Carl & Pamela Jameson of Ambler, PA; Denise & Thomas Kossuth of Ocean City, NJ; Barbara & Howard Neilson of West Cape May, NJ; Randell & Laurel Nuschke of Cape May, NJ; Lawrence & Mary Rinaldi of Mount Laurel, NJ; Gail & Larry Romig of Milroy, PA; Ziggy & Debbie Slusarz of Township of Washington, NJ; Dennis & Dianne Smith of Garnet Valley, PA; Christy Yerk-Smith and Kent Smith of Allentown, PA; Kevin & Sheila
CAPE MAY MAC BOARD ELECTION RESULTS
Ballots for the 2022 Board elections were mailed in November. Cape May MAC’s Membership elected the following Officers and Trustees to lead the organization in 2022: President: Brian Groestch 1st Vice President: Wendy Collins 2nd Vice President: Mary McKenney 3rd Vice President: Norris Clark Secretary: Janet Coupland Treasurer: Lee Bellarmino Trustees: Chris Clemans, Barbara Dreyfuss, Bob Gorgone, Bernie Haas and Jake Pashelinski The newly elected Officers and Trustees join Jake Cuomo, Wanda Wise Evelyn, Ioanna Iliopoulos and Steve Steger, who are currently serving unexpired terms, and Jody Alessandrine, who serves ex officio as Director. Our thanks go to Suzie Zingman-Leith who has retired from the Board after nine years of service and Tom Carroll who has retired after eight consecutive years of service.
Photo by Susan Krysiak
The annual Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) online auction closes Feb. 28 at 10pm! Bid on a wide variety of exciting items and experiences including photo sessions, custom tours, jewelry, hand-crafted items, vintage items, and more. Proceeds benefit Cape May MAC Preservation Fund which supports the ongoing stewardship of Cape May MAC historic sites. Explore auction items by CLICKING HERE. www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC
Wegryn of North Cape May, NJ; Cindy & Gary Weidner of Douglasville, PA.
Individual: Darlene Kates of Mauricetown, NJ; Linda Kipp of Mechanicsville, VA; Marion S. Marine of Cape May, NJ; Krystyna Miller of Lewes, DE; Carole Scheiderman of Cape May, NJ; Judith Sheerer of Brick, NJ; Mary Beth Toewe of Cape May, NJ. Platinum Business:
Curran vestment Management of Albany, NY.
In-
Condolences to:
The family and friends of Ann Brecker; Lynne Celia, on the death of her husband Tony, a former Cape May MAC trolley driver; the family and friends of Wade Cooper, a Cape May MAC Treasurer in the early days of the organization; Dawn Hynes, on the death of her husband Tom; Clare Juechter, on the death of her mother Lorraine; Carrie O’Sullivan, on the death of her husband, former Cape May MAC Trustee Andy O’Sullivan; the family and friends of Jake Schaad, a long-time Cape May County newspaperman who supported arts and culture in Cape May County and featured our programs in numerous interviews and articles; to the family and friends of Lee Shupert.
Congratulations to:
Former Senator Bob Andrzejczak, on his appointment as Executive Director USDA Farm Service Agency New Jersey; Vicki Clark, President and Executive Director of the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce, on her impending retirement after 30 years serving the county business community; Cape May MAC Trustee Bernie Haas, on his engagement to Elaine Stevenson; Cape May MAC Trustee Jake Pashelinski and his wife Amanda, on the birth of their daughter Nora Rosamond; Joseph E. Salvatore, MD, founder and chairman of Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) Aviation Museum, for being awarded the New Jersey Historical Commission’s (NJHC) highest honorthe Richard J. Hughes Award; Sturdy Savings Bank, for celebrating their 100th anniversary serving the Cape May County community
Get Well Wishes to: Bobbi Aungst.
Winter 2022 • Page 9
‘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
Falkowski & Ronald Holman, Bernie Haas, Bob & Terri Lamendola, Michael Mann, Carol Nick, Carol Reynolds, Eleanor Roman, George & Theresa Schu, Barbara St. Clair, Don & Alethia White. $250-$499 Donors: Byron’s Plumbing & Heating (Byron & Jill Vile), Joseph & Eileen Cassidy, Louis DiCriscio & Nova Ahrens, Craig & Gail Fitz, Robert & Gina Greenwood, Charles & Beth Harris, Janet Kerney, James & Denise Lothian, Sharon Mastroni, Bob & Karen McClennen, Bruce & Jane Ryan, Sanford & Mary Stewart. $100-$249 Donors: Aaron Wittkamp Colwell Post 239, Frank & Beth Acker, Jody & Cheryl Alessandrine, Michael & Donna Amundsen, Corylin Armour, Frank & Sue Barber, Thomas & Teresa Bocket, John & Lisa Boecker, Glenn Bloiso & Margaret Crabtree, Edward & Amy Borer, Daniel Bosin, Edmund & Mary Claire Cancelmo, John & Geraldine Carroll, Cape May Brewing Company (Alicia Grasso), Chin Up LLC (Deborah Harry), Mark & Linda Clemente, Marge & Al Conley, Christine Cosenza & Matthew Palmer, Margaret & Paul Cromelin, Bill & Sue Currie, Richard & Alice Dalla Palu, Paulette & Stephan Delaveaux, Joseph & Denise Darconte, Dan & Mary De Waters, Rosalie DiBianca, Ron & Terry DiUbaldi, Steven & Anne Docimo, Wister Dougherty, Christofer DuBois, Michael & Karen Edlredge, Michael & Rosemary Eden, Patricia Everett, Brian Falconer, Alfred
& Cynthia Fini, Joseph Freiert, Carolann Gaites, Cassandra & Kenneth Germann, Peg Gillies, Steven & Lynne Glasser, Debra Glessner, Alex & Mary Elizabeth Hager, Mary Kay Hauser, Roger Henry, Steven & Wendy Hess, Joe Hindelang, William & Eva Elisabeth Hohman, Tom & Jane Huesser, It’s A Breeze, Ray & Cheryl Jablow, Robert Jenco, Kate Jiggins, Donald & Patricia Kane, John & Kathleen Kapusnick, Linda Kastner, Kevin &4 Debby Kilkenny, David & Eunice King, Nancy & John Klos, Malcolm & Dorothy Knapp, Chris & Deborah Kops, Marie & George Koumaras, Steven & Lori Lazan (John F. Craig House & The Lorelei), Tricia Leith, Bob & Jayne Lester, Michael & Mindy Levy, Ron & Roz Levy, Little Oaks Campground (Judy LaPorta), Joan Maguire, Charles & Ellen Mansueto, Ben & Diane Martorana, David & Lynn Martz, Carol & Peter Mastrola, Paul & Priscilla McCliment, Joe & Emily McLaughlin, McMaster Carr Supply Company, Patrick & Joanne Meehan, Scott & Jana Meisinger, Dean Michelson & Virginia Lang, Diana & Arthur Miller, Bill & Mary Anne Mistick, Rita Modesti, Beth Moini, Kevin & Patricia Monaghan, Wayne & Joyce Monsees, Matthew Morano, Barbara Morris, Eric Muck, Joe & Diane Nadolski, Rainer & Mary Newman, Christie Nightingale, Frederick & Carol Obligado, John & Jennifer Ochman, William Paladini & Pamela Nardone, Mark & Carey Nathan, Patricia Nolfi, Linda Palmer, Theodore & Virginia Passon, Beatrice Pessagno & Peter Cole,
CAPE MAY MAC PRESERVATION FUND ANNUAL APPEAL DONATIONS $2,000 and up Donors: Philippa Campbell, Tom & Sue Carroll. $1,000-$1,999 Donors: Peggy & Stan Gora, Sharon Kewish, Sharon Magraw, James Moffatt, John & Laurie Orem, Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast, Catherine Rein, Peter & Anita Rohrer, Mark Seltzer. $500-$999 Donors: Jeanette Block, Joe & Paul Bogle, Sally Brice-O’Hara, Michael Calafati, Mike & Nancy Childs, Sharon Page 10 • Winter 2022
Honor a loved one with the purchase of a brick at the Cape May Lighthouse. For more information, CLICK HERE. Cape May MAC
www.capemaymac.
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S Florence Price, Nancy Boyd, Ray & Edward Crutchfield, Richard Renza, Jodie Ritto, Jane Roddy, Gerald & Donna Ruane, Carol & Christopher Saracco, Mary Ellen & Robert Scott, Catherine & Robert Stambaugh, Tom & Carolyn Schwartz, Alphonse & Laure Simone, Siracusa-Kaufmann Insurance Agency, Karen Smith, Terri & Bob Smith, Chris Stafford, Roy & Marlena Steinberg, Lisa Stroud, Mary Swartz, Frank Thompson, Bridget & Russell Tibbetts, Chris & Rose Traficante, Victoria Tryon, Jane ValdesDapena, Karen Van Varick-McGuire & Alan McGuire, Joan Viguers, Joy Wadleigh, Victoria Wagner, Audrey Walters, Joseph & Barbara Weber, Jack & Arlette Wright, Dennis & Susan Yankosky, Marvin & Lee Zektzer. $99 and under Donors: Sandi & Dave Adams, Charles Adamson, Clara Jane Amodei, Jane & Robert Basile, Martha Bendel, Mary & Bernard Bernacki, Mary Ellen Bowen, Barry Brait, Susan Briant, Frank Burns, Nancy Burton, Thomas & Julie Cahalane, John & Kathy Chiaro, Bill Conte & Kenny Whitworth, Lynne Cutler, Tom & Deborah Cutler, Ernestine Dimaggio, Michael Dulin, Janet Fox, Ron Frech, Linda Gast, Gordon Gearhart, Scott & Marie Elena Gearhart, Anne & William George, William & Laura Grau, Jessica Hickman-Beard & Jason Beard, Jean Hill, Peter & Iris Hirsch, Amy Hohn, Scott & Nancy Holland, Richard & Ivelisse Iazzetta, Lawrence Kelley, Mary Kay Klara, Richard Klein, Joshua Mary Ann Koslov, Tamara Kukainis, Harry & Lynda Leaming, Margaret Lonzetta, Lester & Cheryl Lottman, Helen Mashuda, Frank & Jeanne-Marie McCall, John & Carol McCarthy, Robert McLaughlin, Mark & Caroline McClendon, John & Patricia Meisenhalder, Manuel & Karen Mera, L. Martin & Judith Miller, Jack & Rose Muller, John & Patricia Murray, Mark & Clare Pagliettini, Robert & Paula Panepinto, Timothy Paul, Thomas & Colette Perrone, Marianne Plucienik, Gregory Priano, Maria & Tom Quigg, Kenneth Quigley, Jr., Jean Richardson, Mike & Ellen Rodowicz, Craig & Donna Rothman, Elaine Rottger, Samantha Schwarm, Alessandro & Gail Smeraldi, Christopher & Beth Stouffer, Clare Thompson, Sharon & David Van Niel, Gail Yeager. LESSONS OF HISTORY FUND DONATIONS $500-$999 Donors: William & Tina Angstadt. $100-$249 Donors: Bud & Jill Waisbren www.capemaymac.org
Photo by Susan Krysiak
Shown here, Tom Carroll uses a new riding mower for estate grounds maintenance purchased through a generous donation to Cape May MAC from Bill and Audrey Schwab. The Schwabs’ support of the organization extends over two decades, which began during their first visit to Cape May with a stay at The Mainstay Inn, then owned by Tom and Sue Carroll.
CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL DONORS Conductor’s Circle ($500-$999): William & Tina Angstadt. Musician’s Circle ($100-$249): Mark & Suzanne Robertson. MAJOR DONATIONS • The David R. and Patricia Atkinson Foundation, for a $15,000 donation. • Tom & Sue Carroll, for a $10,000 donation to the Cape May MAC Preservation Fund. • Joan Dempsey, for a $1,000 donation in honor of Myles Martel. • Becky Kriebel (Kriebel Charitable Fund), for a $500 donation in memory of Robert Kriebel to the Cape May Preservation Fund Annual Appeal. • Selective Insurance Company, for a $500 donation. • Mark & Lauren Shenfield, for a $1,000 donation from the Lauren Katzowitz Shenfield Charitable Fund to the Cape May MAC Preservation fund in honor of Tom Carroll. DONATIONS • Cape Island Appraisals, Inc., for a $150 donation. • Kenneth Comuso, for a $10 donation. • Gerald DeMenna, for a $100 donation. • Robert & Kathleen Familetti, for a $100 donation. • Susan Greene, for a $200 donation. • Frank & Barbara Hatch, for a $200 donCape May MAC
ation. • Sara House, for a $20 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse. • Charlie Jamison, for a $100 donation in Memory of Gigi Embs. • Dennis Johnson, for a $50 donation. • Jeanne Kelly, for a $50 donation. • Tricia Kraemer, for a $100 donation to the Physick Estate/Zuckerman Endowment. • Molly Kuball, for a $50 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse. • Nancy Lofredo, for a $300 donation. • Ludlam Island Brewey (Bill Topley), for donating beer for the opening of “A Diamond of Their Own” exhibit. • Mad Batter Restaurant (Mark Kulkowitz & Pam Huber), for donating wine for the opening of the “A Diamond of Their Own” exhibit. • Marianist Family Retreat Center Inc., for a $50 donation to the Cape May Lighthouse. • Joseph Reilly, for a $25 donation in honor of Dory Coe. • Sara Shannon, for a $100 donation. • Michael & Deborah Stingis, for a $100 donation to the Cape May MAC Preservation Fund In memory of Andy Stingis. Christmas Candlelight Properties that donated their cleaning fees back to Cape May MAC: Cape May Presbyterian Church, Cape May United Methodist Church, The Cherry House (Frank & Beth Acker), The (CONTINUED ON PAGE 12)
Winter 2022 • Page 11
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S Donations (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11) Dormer House (the Mullock Family), The Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast. Ticket Buyers who added a donation when purchasing tickets: Jennifer Abruzzese, Susan Alice, Linda Alloco, Christopher Alred, Susan Andruska, Kyle Baker, Kate Baldino, Joanna Baldissard, Lisa Bamford, Natalie Beckmann, Cathleen Behr, Joan Benson, Sandra Berman, Elizabeth Blair, Geraldine Borbe, Gina Bosland, Carolyn Bowers, Kathryn Brown, Audrey Buckley, Teresa Carpenter, Diane Carpentier, Gemma Casparius, Jeffrey Christian, Shaun Connolly, Richard Cooper, Kaitlyn Contino, Eileen Cosella, Gianna Costa, Kimberly Cox, Caroline Curley, Eric Dahlmeier, Tammy Damore, Joan Daniels, Kimberly Dangelo, Marianne Decker, Arthur Degroot, Annamarie Delcasale, Lucy Delgado, Doreen Demarco, Leonardo De pinto, Mary Dow, Denise Dunn, Walter Enders, Allison Fichter, Aisha Fidler, Rachel Fisher, Angela Flakker, Darlene Francis, Allyson Frank, Robert Frazzetto, Lydia Freedman, Anne Marie Gabryluk, Mike Geiger, Lucia Giancroce, Martyn Greenacre, Vincent Grippo, Gina Guarino, Robin Guidotti, Celia Guillen, Marianne Hallas, Deanne Hampton, Pamela Hanrahan, Denise Harris, Zoi Hatziminas, Michael Hazard, Jill Helm, Cynthia Hicks, Kellianne Hillis, Alison Hogan, Michele Holler, Victoria Hubinger, Janice Hurd, Alicia Jablonsky, Dhaval Jani, Joanne Jarosz, Kelliann Kavanagh, Ryan Kavanagh, Kristine Keating, Thoma Kedersha, Laura Kizis, Stacy Lachall, Michael Lafferty, Travis Lepley, Robert Levey, Lorenzo Linarducci, Kim Lutter, Carolyn MacElrevey, Fiona Mackenzie, Alan Mackie, John McBride, Mark McDonough, Robert McDowell, Emily Melnyk, Tricia Mento, Anastasia Milazzo, Frank Miller, James Mongiovi, Edward Messina, Patricia Montani, Bonnie Morgenstern, Charlyn Mulkey, Edward Murray, James Muscianesi, Laurel Nanke, Kristen Newman, Peggy Nix, Christine Nudo, Ellen Okeefe, Erica OMalley, Kerilyn Oneill, Gary Ott, Alice Quiles, Joe Palimeno, Joao Patoilo, Maureen Pawlowski, Kimberly Petruzzo, Jennifer Quail, Brian Raphan, Patricia Rebasti, Danielle Reich, Joanna Rocerto, Gregory Roditski, Patricia Rogan, Libby Ross, Jade Russell, Paulette Russo, Joann Sanso, Matthew Santos, Andrew Savio, Thomas Seneca, Jim Schill, Karen Shumpert, Barbara Sparacio, Laxmisha Mundruppady Page 12 • Winter 2022
Sridhar, Kenneth Stieber, Cecilia Still, Patricia Sudol, Patricia Sullivan, Robby Tacheny Cynthia Tatum, Christina Thomas, Lisa Trapani, Cynthia Trause, Jim Verna, Richard Vogel, Karen Ware, Alexandria Waters, John Watts, Pamela Way, Toni Weeks, Lisa Wendeborn, Tori Willman, Maureen Witt, Neil Wood, George Zdanowicz.
Assistance • Frank and Beth Acker of the Cherry House, for opening their home for the Cheery Cherry House Tour, and for their donation of artificial food props for the museum. • Jean Barraclough, for helping with the installation of the “Old-Fashioned Christmas” exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. • Jill Bellarmino, for her continuing help in the Museum Division. • Center for Community Arts (David Mackenzie), for lending artifacts for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. • The Dempsey Family, for lending artifacts for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. • Pastor Jeff Elliott and the Cape May Lutheran Church, for providing the church hall for our Annual Meeting. • Roger Henry, for polishing the brass on the trolleys. • Robert Hudzik, for helping with the installation of the “Old-Fashioned Christmas” exhibit in the Carroll Gallery. • Mark Kulkowitz, for lending artifacts for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. • Dave Morais, for cleaning and organizing the brochure barn. • Dr. Royce Morrison, for his donation of several medical books belonging to Dr. Emlen Physick. • Mary Pratico of 7 Mile Travel, for lending a pre-lit Christmas Tree for use at the John F.
Congratulations
Volunteers of the Month FEBRUARY: Frank Scott MARCH: Brenda Leonard
Cape May MAC
Craig House during the Christmas Candlelight House Tour. • Chanelle René, for creating original artwork for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. • Sydnei SmithJordan, for exhibit design, creating original artwork and lending memorabilia for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. • Bill Topley, for creating labels for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. • Chris Traficante, for exhibit design for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. • Janis Washington White, for lending artifacts for “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” Team: Mark Kulkowitz, David Mackenzie, Melissa Payne, Chanelle Rene, Sydnei SmithJordan, Billy Topley, Chris Traficante, Rose Traficante, Janis Washington White. Christmas Candlelight House Tour Properties: The Abbey (Barbara Tillman), The Angel of the Sea (Theresa Stanton and Mark Hynds), Antoinette’s (Deanna Brown), Beauclaire’s B & B (Joe & Joanne Giovanetti), The Bedford Inn (Paula Murray), Cape May Presbyterian Church (Dr. Nicole Wilkinson), The Cherry House (Frank & Beth Acker), Cape May Convention Hall (Kacie Ratigan), Cape May United Methodist Church (Heyyoung Horton), The Colonial House Museum (Diane Muentz), The Dormer House (Bob Mullock), The Episcopal Church of the Advent (Fr. Alan Leonard), The Humphrey Hughes House (Terry & Lorraine Schmidt), The John F. Craig House (Lori Lazan), Kiwanis Clubhouse, The Kurtz Residence (Karen & William Kurtz), The Luther Ogden Inn (Jan & Mark Pask), The Mason Cottage (Kimberly Gilbert), The Ocean Victorian (Mary McKinney), The Queen Victoria B & B (Jamie Harvey). Holiday Inns Tour Participating Properties: Beauclaire’s B & B (Joe & Joanne Giovanetti), The Bedford Inn (Paula Murray), The Dormer House (Bob Mullock), The Duke of Windsor (Clara Ziman), The Harrison (Kelly Lavorgna), The Queen Victoria B & B (Jamie Harvey). Lamplighter Christmas Tour Participating Properties: Beauclaire’s B & B (Joe & Joanne
www.capemaymac.org
‘T H A N K YO U’ N E W S Giovanetti), The Bedford Inn (Paula Murray) The Cherry House (Frank & Beth Acker), The Colonial House Museum, The Dormer House (the Mullock Family), The Queen Victoria B & B (Jamie Harvey). Lessons of History Team: Jody Alessandrine, Tom Carroll, Joan Dempsey, David King, Mary McKenney, Myles Martel, George Schu, Mary Stewart, Chris Traficante. Taste of Cape May Kitchen Tour Properties: Aurorean Cottage (Marc & Lauren Shenfield), The Cedar House (Kevin & Jill Bremer), Inn at the Park (Carl & Susan Spaccoto), The Judson Bennett House (Mike & Anna DeDominicis), The Kurtz Residence (Yogi & Karen Kurtz), The Maggie McKean (John & Cheryl Gulish). Tour Advisory Team: Joyce Barth, Anne Burrows, Kathleen Familetti, Rosalie Gallagher, Peggy Gora, Carol Hartman, Loretta Hughes, Barbara Lamont, Brian McGrath, Harry Schmidt.
Volunteers
Cheery Cherry House Christmas Tour Volunteers: Mel Bateman, Barbara Bonner, Janet Coupland, Barb Whitlock. Christmas Candlelight House Tour Volunteers: Cheryl & Jody Alessandrine, Pixie & Jim Angelo, Cathy Baldacchini, Lorraine & Pete Baldwin, Nancy Battagliese, Marilu Bicknell, Patricia & Bill Brown, Susan Brozina, Dorothy Buccialia, Sue & Tom Carroll, Eileen Cassidy, Norris Clark, Wendy Collins, Janet Coupland, Sue & Bill Currie, Chris DuBois, Jan Dwyer, Donna Flegal, Chris & George Fore, Hope Gaines, Marie Elena & Gordon Gearhart, Lynne Glasser, Susan Greenspon, Alice Haber, Carol Haggas, Kurt Hague, Theresa Harris, Roger Henry, Charlie Kealy, Susan Krysiak, Anna Leeper, Vicki Marinaro, Richard Mayer, Brian McGrath, Kathy & Dave Morais, Stephanie Moser, Tricia Nolfi, Jake Pashelinsky, Jan Randle, Terrie Rosania, Kathy Sahns, Mary Stewart, Andrea Tahinos, Carole Ulmer, Jill Vile, Rita Walls, Susan Wiggins, Ernestine Zeli-Bove.
Fall Crafts & Collectibles Show Volunteers: Gordon & Marie Elena Gearhart, Susan Wiggins, Ernestine Zeli-Bove. Grounds Crew Volunteers: Tom Carroll, Jan Dwyer, Walt Gabriel, Bob & Rosemary Gorgone, Carol Lindsay, Dave Morais, Bill Schlitzer, Theresa Schmal, Ben Werner. Halloween Crafts & Collectibles Show Food Drive Volunteers: Donna Flegal, Marie Elena Gearhart, Bob & Rosemary Gorgone, Anna Leeper, Carole Ulmer. Holiday Crafts Show Volunteers- Gordon & Marie Elena Gearhart, Carole Irwin, Tricia Nolfi, Ernestine Zeli-Bove. Holiday Inns Tour Volunteers: Cathy Baldacchini, Joyce Barth, Nancy Battagliese, Barb Bonner, Joe Byrne, Janice Corkery, Chris DuBois, Eliza Lotozo, Donna Flega, Roe & Bob Gorgone, Scott Griffith, Mary Beth Hager, Theresa Harris, Carole & Bob Irwin, Charlie Kealy, Sara Kornacki, Susan Krysiak, Anna Leeper, Helen Mashuda, Kathy Morais, Jan Randle, Terrie Rosania, Larry Ryan, Frank Scott, Andrea Tahinos, Terrie Rosania, Rita Walls, Mimi & Mark Wheaton, Barb Whitlock, Ernestine Zeli-Bove, Barb Zicari. Hot Lunch at the First Baptist Church of Wildwood Volunteers: Jody Alessandrine,
Cathy Baldacchini, Anna Leeper, Eliza Lotozo, Sara Kornacki, Susan Krysiak, Mary Stewart. Lamplighter Christmas Tour Volunteers: Cheryl & Jody Alessandrine, Pixie & Jim Angelo, Mel Bateman, Susan Brozina, Wendy Collins, Sue & Bill Currie, Jim Delgrosso, Chris DuBois, Donna Flegal, Marie Elena, Scott & Gordon Gearhart, Alice Haber, Theresa Harris, Carole & Bob Irwin, Megan Kately, Charlie Kealy, Kathy Morais, Stephanie Moser, Tricia Nolfi, Barbara Oberholter, Carolyn Owens, Jan Randle, Rosemary Rombado, Frank Scott, Mary Stewart, MaryBeth Toewe, Carole Ulmer, Barb Whitlock, Susan Wiggins, Ernestine ZeliBove. Maintenance Department Volunteer: Roger Henry. Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit Volunteers: Jean Barraclough, Reese Barraclough, Mathew Barraclough, Bob & Rosemary Gorgone, Barbara Hubmaster. Physick House Decorating Volunteers: Joyce Barth, Jill Bellarmino, Gail Capehart, Janet Coupland, Kathleen Familetti, Rosalie Gallagher, Peggy Gora, Carol Hartman, Yvonne Kuemmerle, Barbara Lamont, Ellie McDevitt, Christy Mobile, Gerri Ridings, Harry Schmidt, Kathleen Sjoland.
PBS’s “Samantha Brown Places to Love” travel show films at Physick Estate
One of PBS’s most beloved television travel presenters, Samantha Brown, came to the Physick Estate, Cape May and the Jersey Shore June 12 and 13, 2021 to film Episode 2 of the new Season 5 of “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love.” Watch for Samantha’s interview with Cape May MAC’s Curator Ben Ridings at the Physick Estate and cheer with us as we celebrate a job well done by Ben. Watch the episode by CLICKING HERE.
Christmas Tree Lighting Volunteers: 4-H Youth Volunteers (Lilly Carr, JJ Carr, Eddie Hoover, Rainbow McAtee, Amelia Worthington, Coordinators Linda Horner & Chelsea White), Jody Alessandrine, Bill Angstadt, Cathy Baldacchini, Jean Barraclough, Melanie Bateman, Susan Brozina, Chris DuBois, Gordon, Marie Elena, & Scott Gearhart, Alice Haber, Bob & Carole Irwin, Megan Kately, Anna Leeper, Dave & Kathy Morais, Mary Stewart, Misty Veverka. www.capemaymac.org
Cape May MAC
Winter 2022 • Page 13
Grants (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) conservation measures to lower recurring costs. These are must-do items to embark on subsequent major capital projects that will be born from the planning grant for the Physick House. All work is focused on supporting Cape May MAC’s mission in support of preservation of the historic site, interpretation, and local and regional history education, and arts programs. The two planning grants, however, have no match as the county program does not fund planning projects. Thus, Cape May MAC remains in need of assistance to help meet its match for the state funding. “We’re so fortunate and appreciative to be successful in all four state and county grant applications we submitted in 2021 for this important, essential work to be done in 2022,” said Cape May MAC’s CEO/Director Jody Alessandrine. “Still, we need financial assistance to offset the two planning grants, as well as to cover the professional services fees for the capital grant.” Alessandrine said that figure is just over $52,000. To donate to these current initiatives and the ongoing restoration and maintenance of the Physick
Estate, please CLICK HERE or mail to Physick Estate Grant Match, Cape May MAC, 1048 Washington St., Cape May, NJ 08204.
Cape May Music Festival live and bold for 2022
As reported in the Fall/Holiday Newsletter, the New Jersey Council on the Arts awarded Cape May MAC an $80,000 grant for the 2022 Cape May Music Festival, an increase of $35,000 from its 2021 and more recent annual awards. Cape May MAC will present 14 concerts this year, all live, starting May 1 and concluding on June 30. Included in the expanded program is a full orchestra concert at Cape May Convention Hall featuring the Bay Atlantic Symphony. This concert will close out this year’s festival. For the full schedule of concerts, please see the Music Festival listing starting on Page 3.
This Week in Cape May app coming soon
Cape May MAC was awarded a $35,000 New Jersey Cultural Trust Technology Grant this past fall. The project that was submitted
and approved was for the creation of a This Week in Cape May (TWICM) mobile app. TWICM is the longstanding popular publication of all that is going on in Cape May — Cape May MAC events, as well as those of other non-profits and the city.
Travel & Tourism Marketing Grant helps bring groups to town NJ Division of Travel & Tourism’s Cooperative Marketing Grant to Cape May MAC has also increased, from $17,500 in FY20 to $25,000. Cape May MAC utilizes these funds to promote its Group Tour program, which attracted bus group companies emanating from more than 20 states and generating more than $500,000 in combined gross revenue in 2021 and 2019 (2020 was affected by the pandemic) for the non-profit organization. In addition, various local accommodations, restaurants and other businesses will benefit from the increased business and broad exposure that the grant makes possible. -- JA
Exhibit (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) to the Negro Leagues, and gave welcome remarks at the exhibit’s opening during the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday weekend: ***
... Why was Negro League Baseball formed? After all, Major League Baseball was founded in 1876 and Black players were contracted as early as 1884. But in 1887, a gentleman’s agreement was formed among the owners that began to block new contracts with Black players through the minor leagues. This led to the eventual disappearance of Blacks in the Major Leagues. Although white managers denied such an agreement existed, no Black players appeared in the Major Leagues again until 1947.
“It’s important to look at history for what it was, at the time,” White said. “The Negro Leagues were created due to segregation. Players of color were not permitted to play in the National/American Baseball Leagues solely because of the color of their skin. This exhibit celebrates players of color and their accomplishments in spite of the obstacles placed upon them.” SmithJordan is a freelance artist and illustrator whose work is in the collections of Park Overall, Whoopi Goldberg, Patti Labelle, Forest Whitaker, Denzel Washington, Damien Escobar and Sylvester Stallone. Chanelle René is an awardwinning West Cape May artist known for her soulful portrait paintings, and descendant of members of the Cape May Giants. The Carroll Gallery is open weekends and holidays (including Presidents Day) through March 27, and daily beginning March 28. For specific information and hours visit capemaymac.org or call 609884-5404. -- SK
Janis Washington White ***
Page 14 • Winter 2022
Cape May MAC
Pavers (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) family’s love of the lighthouse. Customized symbols may be added including a heart, music notes, a paw print or a star. Bricks may be purchased online or in person at the Cape May Lighthouse, or at the Hill House Business Office at the Emlen Physick Estate. Installation began in 2021 and continues in 2022. Call 609-884-5404 for more information or visit the Cape May Lighthouse webpage by CLICKING HERE. www.capemaymac.org
Wrap-up (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) party of the new century. It is always nice to find yet another new way to interpret Victorian life for our visitors. Another new offering this year was “The Unexpected Gift,” a holiday-themed play written by our favorite playwright Jackie Fazio and set in the Physick Estate. We also continued our partnership with East Lynne Theater Company on the Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Ride and welcomed young visitors at Breakfast with Santa, partnering with the Inn of Cape May, and on Santa’s Trolley Rides. The Education Division offered two holiday-themed Lunch & Learn programs via Zoom. The first was presented by Mary Stewart on Nov. 17 and offered a look at the
History of Thanksgiving in America. Did you know that there were celebrations long before the Pilgrims gave thanks in 1621? The second, “The Shocking Secrets of Victorian Christmas,” was offered Dec. 15 and was presented by Education Manager Elan Zingman-Leith. The Education Division also took programs to the Blind Center of the Jersey Cape, Avalon Elementary School, and the Avalon History Center. After a remarkably busy holiday season (where we occasionally saw tour tickets being scalped on Facebook), we began the installation of “A Diamond of Their Own: The Remarkable History of the Negro Leagues” exhibit. This exhibit had its origin in a Negro Leagues-focused weekend planned for Spring 2020 that
Cape May Lighthouse time capsule
was derailed by the pandemic. A threeday conference on the subject in October 2021, co-sponsored by the Greater Cape May Historical Society, the Center for Community Arts and Cape May MAC, gave it further impetus. The exhibit highlights paintings of Negro League baseball players, both men and women, as portrayed Sydnei SmithJordan and Chanelle René along with memorabilia supplied by the Center for Community Arts, the Dempsey Family, Mark Kulkowitz, Sydnei SmithJordan and Janis Washington White. It also touches on Cape May’s connection to the Negro Leagues through the Cape May Giants, a local Black ball club playing here in the 1920s. The exhibit opened formally on Jan. 15 and will be open through April 30. -- MES
Last year, Trustee Janet Coupland found an agenda for the 1989 Cape May Lighthouse bicentennial and the last agenda item was to bury a time capsule. “It caused a lot of excitement,” she said, and soon, COO Melissa Payne began a search. “I was prepared to dig through all the vents to find it,” she said, “and sure enough, the first one I opened, it was sitting right there.” Capsule contents were put on display during Cape May MAC’s 50th anniversary celebration in September 2021. New items were added including vintage photos, lists of memorial brick paver purchasers, staff photos and old photos of the Lighthouse. The capsule reads “To be opened on Cape May MAC’s 100th anniversary in 2070.” Shown here, above, from left, Coupland, Payne, Tom and Sue Carroll and Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine prepare to reinstall the capsule on Dec. 6, 2021. At left, Tom Carroll crawled into the vent where it was originally found and gets ready to replace it there.
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Cape May MAC
Winter 2022 • Page 15
