April & May 2019
April & May 2019 Color Issue
April & May 2019
Color Issue
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EXIT ZERO<br />
APRIL & MAY <strong>2019</strong> « $7.95
Specializing in Sales and Rentals<br />
Our team of 40 Agents is ready to<br />
assist with all of your real estate needs.<br />
609.884.1300<br />
Todd H. deSatnick / Broker of Record<br />
www.deSatnickRealEstate.com<br />
Located at 1001 Lafayette Street “The First Light in Town” Cape <strong>May</strong>
C L A S S I C T A S T E S W I T H A<br />
M O D E R N T W I S T O N<br />
H I S T O R I C W A S H I N G T O N<br />
S T R E E T<br />
SHUTTER<br />
MOMENTS<br />
p h o t o g r a p h y<br />
W A S H I N G T O N I N N<br />
8 0 1 W A S H I N G T O N S T R E E T<br />
W A S H I N G T O N I N N . C O M<br />
6 0 9 8 8 4 5 6 9 7<br />
“Best Pizza” Cape <strong>May</strong> County <strong>2019</strong> trenton times
about us<br />
editor, publisher & designer<br />
Jack Wright<br />
jack@exitzero.us<br />
operations manager<br />
Katie Repici<br />
katie@exitzero.us<br />
general manager<br />
Cathrine O’Brien<br />
cathrine@exitzero.us<br />
contributing editor<br />
Diane Stopyra<br />
diane@exitzero.us<br />
Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily<br />
historical editor<br />
Ben Miller<br />
creative consultant<br />
Victor Grasso<br />
contributing photographers<br />
Suzanne Kulperger, Aleksey Moryakov,<br />
Jessica Orlowicz, Charles Riter<br />
contributing writers<br />
Bill Barlow, Catherine Dugan, David Gray,<br />
Terry O’Brien, Tom Sims, Susan Tischler<br />
exit zero color magazine is published four times a year.<br />
Annual subscription is $32.50. To subscribe, call 609-770-8479<br />
or visit ezstore.us<br />
Outdoor, Pet-Friendly Dining Too!<br />
Published by Exit Zero<br />
110 Sunset Boulevard<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>, NJ 08204<br />
(609) 884-9119<br />
322 Washington Street Mall, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
www.tishasfinedining.com<br />
exit zero 2 april-may<br />
Telephone: 609-770-8479<br />
Fax: 609-770-8481<br />
E-mail: info@exitzero.us<br />
Website: exitzero.us / Online store: ezstore.us<br />
printed in the usa
GOOD PUB FOOD IN COOL CAPE MAY!<br />
A classic since 1926<br />
Est. 2014<br />
A new Irish<br />
classic!<br />
ON THE MALL<br />
(609) 884-3459<br />
“Best clam chowder and<br />
lobster roll in New Jersey.”<br />
- TripAdvisor<br />
ON THE MALL<br />
(609) 770-8559<br />
“Everything we sampled was right on -<br />
from wings to onion rings.<br />
Exactly what we were<br />
looking for!”<br />
- TripAdvisor<br />
Check our Facebook pages<br />
for live entertainment!<br />
exit zero 3 april-may
inside this issue<br />
editor’s letter 8<br />
It’s all about the seasons.<br />
quick chat: alex laudeman 10<br />
One year on, the owner of <strong>May</strong>er’s Tavern.<br />
the ultimate food & drink chart 14<br />
Five-page guide... eat your way through Cape <strong>May</strong>!<br />
introducing: jackson o’brien 26<br />
The Cape <strong>May</strong> kid who’s heading for Broadway.<br />
events around town 31<br />
All the happenings you need to know about.<br />
life at exit zero? it’s a gas. 38<br />
Jack Wright on the lessons he’s learned at the Filling Station.<br />
the ultimate cape may bargain 48<br />
How to spend $20 and save $400 while having an absolute blast!<br />
the birdman of cape may 58<br />
How David La Puma earned his wings.<br />
the brown room 64<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>’s iconic bar is classier than ever.<br />
really weird sea creatures 68<br />
Meet the Sarcastic Fringehead and other wackos of the deep.<br />
cape may point: a love story 78<br />
One little cottage, one large family legacy.<br />
life’s a beach down on the farm 86<br />
Check out these stunning rustic chic cottages in West Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
who’s running cape may 92<br />
Want to race around this year? Here’s the ultimate guide.<br />
the big activities guide 100<br />
Don’t leave home without it.<br />
drink the cape 116<br />
Six-page guide to our wineries, breweries and distilleries.<br />
the definitive cape may trolley guide 122<br />
From ghosts to mansions... it’s all here!<br />
spicing up the harborfront 128<br />
What’s going on at Spicers Creek?<br />
property of the month 132<br />
Get thee to the Point!<br />
parting thought 136<br />
The wonder of outdoor showers, by Diane Stopyra.<br />
COVER PHOTO SUZANNE KULPERGER<br />
Fabulous Food & Cool Cocktails in a Casual Pub Atmosphere!<br />
HAPPY HOUR<br />
Daily from 3-6pm and<br />
All Day Sunday!<br />
LUNCH & DINNER DAILY<br />
Kitchen Hours<br />
11:30am-10pm<br />
3729 BAYSHORE ROAD, NORTH CAPE MAY | (609) 889-7000 | 5WESTPUB.COM<br />
exit zero 4 april-may
More To “Like” Every Summer!<br />
CAPE MAY’S NEW ICONIC BEACH FRONT DESTINATION<br />
17,000 + square footage of Meeting Space • Hemingway’s Restaurant & Nightclub<br />
Award Winning Weddings with views of the Atlantic Ocean & Jersey Cape<br />
More to “Like” Every Summer!<br />
165 tastefully appointed guest rooms & suites • Olympic Size indoor & outdoor swimming pools<br />
Our family-friendly hotel has all the amenities and activities your family needs<br />
to have an unforgettable vacation - all mere steps away from the beach!<br />
Oceanfront 1045 Beach Ave, Cape <strong>May</strong>, NJ 08204 • grandcapemay.com<br />
609.884.5611 • resercvations@grandcapemay.com • www.grandcapemay.com<br />
/GrandWeddings @GrandHotelCMNJ The Grand Hotel Cape <strong>May</strong> GrandCape<strong>May</strong><br />
grandcapemay.com • 609.884.5611 • Oceanfront @ 1045 Beach Ave • Cape <strong>May</strong> NJ<br />
exit zero 5 april-may
Calm Before the Storm<br />
A serene beach scene, ahead of<br />
the summer rush. Stephen Bonk
editor’s letter<br />
More than 21 million people live in Florida.<br />
Obviously, I don’t know how many<br />
of those people are retirees who chose<br />
to live (and die) there and how many are<br />
born and bred in the Sunshine State. And<br />
you’re probably wondering already what my point is. And it’s<br />
this — Florida doesn’t have four seasons. Instead, it has two<br />
modes of operation — wet and dry.<br />
I don’t know about you, but that’s not my bag, man. I<br />
love the seasons. I should probably mention here that I’m<br />
Scottish, and Scotland regularly has all four seasons in one<br />
day. Sometimes in one HOUR. Which is a real fun novelty<br />
if you’re visiting my beautiful homeland (which you should<br />
do) — and a real pain in the arse if you happen to live there.<br />
But, yes, my point is… Cape <strong>May</strong> has four distinct seasons,<br />
and I love this. Summer we all know about. It’s the time<br />
of year when waiters and bartenders make tons of money<br />
and reach the optimum stress levels at the same time. And<br />
it’s the time of year when visitors either come and chill out<br />
on our beautiful island or decide they want to make every<br />
waiter and bartender and B&B/hotel owner suffer if their<br />
every need is not serviced. That’s summer.<br />
Right now, as I write, it’s spring. The season of expectation.<br />
A time to take a breath before things get pretty crazy<br />
(and fun) on this lovely little part of planet earth. Granted,<br />
the weather is not that great. Reminds me a bit of Scotland.<br />
Wind, rain, some sunny days. Sometimes all in one day. But<br />
it’s also a time when pretty much all of Cape <strong>May</strong>’s restaurants<br />
reopen their doors, testing out new staff and new<br />
systems (because there’s always SOMETHING you can<br />
improve on last year).<br />
The vast majority of editors<br />
of magazines large and<br />
small publish photographs<br />
of themselves with their<br />
editor’s letter. Since I<br />
know a lot of magazine<br />
editors, I also know that<br />
the vast majority of these<br />
photographs are extremely<br />
flattering. I don’t typically<br />
include a photo of myself<br />
on this page because I think<br />
(quite rightly) that you<br />
would rather see a lovely<br />
landscape of Cape <strong>May</strong>. For<br />
this issue, I’m making an<br />
exception, for two reasons:<br />
1. There’s a story on Exit<br />
Zero (written by me) in<br />
this issue; 2. I love Suzanne<br />
Kulperger’s photography<br />
and I want to show it off,<br />
even if her extraordinary<br />
skills can’t hide the fact<br />
that I have a belly (and this<br />
is me sucking it in). Enjoy<br />
while you can. There will<br />
likely be a sunset photo on<br />
this page next time...<br />
exit zero 8 april-may<br />
I suppose what I’m saying is that, for regular folks, January<br />
brings about New Year Resolutions. In Cape <strong>May</strong>, spring<br />
is what inspires resolutions… when business owners figure<br />
out what they are going to change and improve for the<br />
upcoming summer season. Spring is a chance for renewal.<br />
In this issue, I get to indulge myself and tell you all<br />
about our Exit Zero Filling Station, a wacky combination<br />
of restaurant, gas station, publishing company and retail<br />
store. We also profile David La Puma, director of Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Bird Observatory, an organization for which spring is pretty<br />
vital… on <strong>May</strong> 11, the World Series of Birding will be held<br />
on this tiny island. I think you’ll love David’s ruminations on<br />
birding and life on the Cape in general. You will DEFINITELY<br />
love the photographs shot by Suzanne Kulperger. She depicts<br />
David as a birdman, or an angel, if you like (see page 58 to<br />
see what I mean). Well, for us, Suzanne IS an angel. She<br />
dropped down on us and shot some pretty amazing photography<br />
throughout this issue. Welcome aboard the crazy train,<br />
Suzanne. Let’s ride it for as long as we can!<br />
Also in this issue, you’ll find a poignant story about a<br />
family cottage in Cape <strong>May</strong> Point; a guide to the many (and<br />
there really are MANY) road races in this area; a story about<br />
the weirdest sea creatures you can ever imagine (the writer,<br />
aka my wife, has an imagination that is as fertile as her writing<br />
ability); and stories about the recently renovated Brown<br />
Room (a Cape <strong>May</strong> institution) and those beautiful cottages<br />
down at Beach Plum Farm, where I would love to hide myself<br />
away for a week, any season of the year.<br />
Welcome to spring in Cape <strong>May</strong>. We’ll be back again in<br />
June. Until then, enjoy the season!<br />
JACK WRIGHT Editor/Publisher
LUNCH • DINNER • LATE NIGHT • KIDS MENU<br />
BURGERS • FLATBREADS • SEAFOOD • FRESH SALADS<br />
COCKTAILS • BEER • WINE<br />
20 BEERS ON TAP<br />
4 WINES ON TAP<br />
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT<br />
FISH TANKS<br />
<br />
<br />
exit zero 9 april-may
A QUICK CHAT<br />
One year after relaunching the<br />
classic <strong>May</strong>er’s Tavern on the<br />
harbor, Alex Laudeman discusses<br />
restaurant calamities, having a<br />
dad in the business, and those<br />
legendary fried scallops.<br />
interview jack wright<br />
photograph jessica orlowicz<br />
It’s been a year since you opened <strong>May</strong>er’s<br />
Tavern. What’s been the highlight? People!<br />
People are the hardest thing but also the best<br />
thing. It makes me beyond happy when there’s<br />
a restaurant full of happy customers and happy<br />
employees. There’s nothing better.<br />
And go on, tell us about one or two of<br />
the mishaps because we all know they happen<br />
(we had about 143 here at Exit Zero Filling<br />
Station...) Running a restaurant is basically<br />
just hopping from one calamity to the next, but<br />
some really stand out. On the day we were set<br />
to open to the public, our connection to the<br />
sewer main in the street stopped functioning<br />
(unrelated to us). Everything ground to a halt<br />
for a few hours until that got fixed. Thankfully<br />
Lower Township was right on it and it didn’t<br />
delay the opening. But I was a little stressed.<br />
Amazing. We had the exact same problem<br />
the Saturday of St Patrick’s weekend. Never<br />
happens on a Tuesday morning, right. Anything<br />
that has surprised you? How much I honestly<br />
love working with my family. I thought it would<br />
be harder because you hear the horror stories,<br />
but working with my dad [Lobster House owner<br />
Keith Laudeman] has been better than I could<br />
ask for. My mom and sister both started working<br />
at the restaurant later in the season and it’s so<br />
much fun to be with them!<br />
What’s been the general feedback from<br />
the customers? People love the renovation<br />
and we get a lot of good feedback on the food.<br />
I think people understood what we were going<br />
for with the new <strong>May</strong>er’s and they love it.<br />
Any idea about the rough split of new<br />
customers to old faithfuls? I’m not too sure. I<br />
would say more new customers than old, but<br />
we still get a lot of people coming in and reminiscing,<br />
which I love. We also get a lot of local<br />
kids my age who were brought in for lunch as<br />
children with their dads. Now they are coming<br />
in with their kids.<br />
And the fried scallops.... what’s been<br />
the feedback on those? I really did not anticipate<br />
how popular they would be. I’m proud<br />
that they’ve organically become our signature<br />
because it’s a true Cape <strong>May</strong> tradition, caught<br />
on local boats by local people.<br />
Is there anything you would have done<br />
differently? There’s little things you find along<br />
the way that need to be changed, but overall no.<br />
I’m super lucky to have the wisdom of my dad<br />
behind me. He’s been at this a very long time<br />
and helped me avoid a hundred landmines.<br />
Did you get a chance to actually do anything<br />
for fun in Cape <strong>May</strong> while you were<br />
open, or was it pretty much work, sleep,<br />
repeat? It really was work/sleep/repeat which<br />
gets a little brutal on both body and mind. But I<br />
squeezed in pilates classes as much as possible<br />
exit zero 10 april-may<br />
and made it to the beach a couple of times. I<br />
can’t complain because I really do love what I<br />
do, and I get a break in the winter.<br />
What did you get up to during the break?<br />
Go anywhere fun? A lot of time with my husband<br />
and cats in Brooklyn, and a lot of travel.<br />
I’m not going to list everywhere I went because<br />
honestly it’s indulgent, but I hit three continents.<br />
Any plans to tweak anything this year?<br />
Yes, always! Things ran very well last year but<br />
there’s always room for improvement and more<br />
creativity.<br />
Assuming you WILL get some time off this<br />
year, what will be the things you plan on enjoying<br />
in the Cape <strong>May</strong> area this summer? The<br />
beach and wine with my friend Lindsay [owner<br />
of Givens Circle], hopefully at the same time. Is<br />
that illegal? Don’t tell...
Voted 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America for 2018 by OpenTable<br />
Weddings | Rehearsals | Bridal Showers | Special Occasions<br />
Serving dinner 7 nights a week<br />
Sunday-Friday 5:30pm<br />
Saturday 5:00pm<br />
Early seating menu available Sunday-Friday from 5:30-6:00pm<br />
*Excluding Holiday Weekends *<br />
1301 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
609.884.9090<br />
www.petershieldsinn.com<br />
exit zero 11 april-may
a cape may moment<br />
Local officials joined the Hirsch family for a topping-off ceremony to celebrate the last beam installed at the new Boarding House hotel. Aleksey Moryakov<br />
7 DAYS A WEEK<br />
4:30PM-10PM<br />
Reservations<br />
609-884-0200<br />
Free Parking<br />
Bringing you the fresh, unique flavors of<br />
Italy in a charming, welcoming atmosphere.<br />
Laugh • Dine • Enjoy<br />
311 MANSION STREET, CAPE MAY<br />
ICCARACAPEMAY.COM<br />
exit zero 12 april-may
HARRY’S OCEAN BAR & GRILLE<br />
“One of the Best Places to Drink Outdoors” — Philadelphia Magazine<br />
“Best Rooftop Vibes” — SJ Magazine<br />
opening mother’s day weekend<br />
thursday, may 9<br />
FOOD • FAMILY • TRADITION<br />
BEACH AT MADISON AVENUE • CAPE MAY, NJ • 609.884.2779 • HARRYSCAPEMAY.COM<br />
Open Thursday-Sunday til Memorial Day weekend, then open 7 days • Photos by Jessica orlowicz<br />
CAPE MAY’S ONLY BEACHFRONT LIQUOR STORE<br />
BEACH AT MADISON AVENUE, CAPE MAY, NJ • (609) 884-6114 • MONTREALBEACHRESORT.COM<br />
exit zero 13 april-may
THE ULTIMATE CAPE MAY FOOD & DRINK CHART<br />
What you<br />
need to<br />
know about<br />
the food<br />
and vibe<br />
Meals<br />
served<br />
Bar or<br />
BYOB?<br />
Should I<br />
book?<br />
Food for<br />
kids?<br />
Other<br />
details<br />
ALEATHEA’S<br />
7 Ocean Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-5555, extension 226<br />
www.innofcapemay.com<br />
Excellent food at the glorious old Inn of Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
There’s a cozy-but-elegant bar with access to the<br />
oceanfront patio. Check out the antique-filled lobby<br />
first.<br />
B, L, D<br />
FULL<br />
BAR<br />
YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
AVALON COFFEE<br />
7 Gurney, Cape <strong>May</strong>, 898-8088,<br />
3823 Bayshore, North Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 846-0040<br />
Superior coffee and healthy food that’s perfect for<br />
breakfast and lunch. First-class wraps, sandwiches and<br />
bagels, along with a good range of smoothies and cold<br />
drinks.<br />
B, L N/A NO YES<br />
b H<br />
BACKSTREET<br />
600 Park Blvd, West Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-7660<br />
www.backstreetcapemaynj.com<br />
Downhome cooking, a laidback vibe and superior<br />
desserts in this gem, a few minutes from Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
They have plenty of free parking and delicious nightly<br />
specials.<br />
B, D<br />
BYOB YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
BAREFOOT BAR & RESTAURANT<br />
510 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-3500<br />
www.marquiscapemay.com<br />
Belly up to a bar with one of the best views in town.<br />
At the Marquis de Lafayette Hotel, overlooking the<br />
Atlantic. Fun drinks and treats such as watermelon<br />
salad, quesadillas, flatbread pizzas, nachos and more.<br />
L, D<br />
FULL<br />
BAR<br />
NO YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
BEACH PLUM BAKERY & CAFÉ<br />
484 West Perry Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 770-8261<br />
www.thewestendgarage.com<br />
BEACH PLUM FARM KITCHEN<br />
140 Stevens, West Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 602-0128<br />
www.beachplumfarmcapemay.com<br />
This cozy-industrial café features some of the<br />
most exciting doughnuts you’ve tasted, made with<br />
ingredients from Beach Plum Farm. Add La Colombe<br />
draft latte, and you’ve got a coffee lover’s dream.<br />
Enjoy the quiet beauty of this 62-acre farm in West<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> and then indulge in the farm-to-table treats<br />
for breakfast or lunch. The soups, salads, sandwiches<br />
and juices are superb.<br />
B, L N/A NO YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
B, L BYOB NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
BLUE PIG TAVERN<br />
251 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-8422<br />
www.caperesorts.com<br />
Many of its menu items are coming from the local<br />
Beach Plum Farm. The Pig serves classic tavern food<br />
with quite a a twist or two along the way.<br />
B, L, D<br />
FULL<br />
BAR<br />
YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
BOILER ROOM<br />
251 Beach Avenue,<br />
(609) 884-8422<br />
www.caperesorts.com<br />
Congress Hall’s chic basement nightclub — all bare<br />
metal and brickwork — now has a brick oven serving<br />
thin-crust pizza, and has added a line of draft beers.<br />
D<br />
FULL<br />
BAR<br />
NO NO<br />
u<br />
H<br />
BREAKFAST IN THE SKY<br />
Mariner’s Landing Pier, Wildwood<br />
(609) 846-1624<br />
www.moreyspiers.com<br />
Breakfast experiences like this don’t come along<br />
frequently, so grab the chance while you can! Enjoy a<br />
gourmet breakfast while gently rotating through the<br />
air on Morey’s Piers giant ferris wheel! Call to reserve.<br />
B N/A YES YES<br />
b<br />
THE BROWN ROOM<br />
251 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-8422<br />
www.caperesorts.com<br />
Congress Hall’s lounge was recently given a very cool<br />
renovation, with a larger, circular bar. The decor is<br />
elegant, the drinks are great, the staff attentive, and<br />
the place just says “classy.”<br />
Bar<br />
Menu<br />
FULL<br />
BAR<br />
NO NO<br />
u<br />
CABANAS<br />
429 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-4800<br />
www.cabanasonthebeach.com<br />
The party is here — always warm and friendly in this<br />
lively beachfront bar, featuring great food and some of<br />
the best live bands around.<br />
B, L, D<br />
FULL<br />
BAR<br />
YES YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
CAPE MAY FISH MARKET<br />
408 Washington Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 770-3790<br />
www.capemayfishmarket.com<br />
Comfy joint in the middle of the mall, featuring a raw<br />
bar, surf-n-turf entrées, sandwiches and burgers, plus<br />
outside tables for some great people-watching!<br />
L, D BYOB NO YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
SYMBOLS KEY u Onsite parking b Handicap accessible<br />
H Takeout available U Dog-friendly patio<br />
exit zero 14 april-may
“The Nail,” as it’s known by the locals, is the famed iconic surfer bar<br />
and restaurant that made a name for itself in the ‘70s. It’s right here in<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>, just steps away from the beach. Back in the day lifeguards,<br />
surfers and beautiful beach bunnies gathered around the wood<br />
bar that was rumored to be the longest in all of Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
NOW IT’S YOUR TURN TO JOIN IN THE FUN<br />
FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH OR DINNER<br />
Live Music | Open Through December<br />
205 BEACH AVENUE 609.884.0017 RUSTYNAILCAPEMAY.COM #THERUSTYNAIL<br />
exit zero 15 april-may
THE ULTIMATE CAPE MAY FOOD & DRINK CHART<br />
What you<br />
need to<br />
know about<br />
the food<br />
and vibe<br />
Meals<br />
served<br />
Bar or<br />
BYOB?<br />
Should I<br />
book?<br />
Food for<br />
kids?<br />
Other<br />
details<br />
CARNEY’S<br />
Beach and Jackson, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-4424<br />
www.carneyscapemaynj.com<br />
Live music on the weekends, great early bird and<br />
happy hour specials, and casual fare that’s reliable... all<br />
across the street from the beach.<br />
L, D FULL<br />
BAR<br />
NO<br />
YES<br />
b H<br />
THE CARRIAGE HOUSE<br />
1048 Washington Street<br />
At the Emlen Physick Estate<br />
(609) 884-5111<br />
The Carriage House offers everything from hearty<br />
wraps, salads, quiche and paninis to classic teas. Best<br />
of all is the location — the gorgeous Emlen Physick<br />
Estate.<br />
L BYOB YES YES<br />
u<br />
b<br />
CRAB HOUSE<br />
Two Mile Landing, Ocean Drive<br />
(609) 522-1341<br />
www.twomilelanding.com<br />
Owned by a commercial fishing family, the Crab<br />
House serves the freshest of seafood. The<br />
waterfront views and live entertainment are great<br />
bonuses!<br />
L, D BAR NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
DELANEY’S IRISH BAR & GRILL<br />
400 Washington Mall, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 770-8559<br />
www.delaneyscapemay.com<br />
What was once Jackson Mountain is now an Irishstyle<br />
bar and restaurant, with some excellent pub<br />
food, and a very decent selection of drinks.<br />
L, D BAR NO YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
THE EBBITT ROOM<br />
25 Jackson Street,<br />
(609) 884-5700<br />
www. virginiahotel.com<br />
Enjoy your meal on the Ebbitt Room porch,<br />
overlooking tree-lined Jackson Street, or enjoy the<br />
simple beauty of this dining room, one of the finest in<br />
South Jersey.<br />
D BAR YES NO<br />
u<br />
E. M. HEMINGWAY’S<br />
1045 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-5611<br />
www.hemingwayscapemay.com<br />
Casual and family-friendly, E. M. Hemingway’s offers<br />
great seafood, prime beef and nightly specials. Enjoy<br />
their happy hours daily from 4-7pm and weekend<br />
DJs.<br />
B, L, D BAR YES YES u b<br />
H<br />
EXIT ZERO FILLING STATION<br />
110 Sunset Boulevard, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 770-8479<br />
www.exitzero.us<br />
Fill your car at the pumps, fill your shopping bag with<br />
cool merchandise and fill up your belly with great<br />
curries, some of the best burgers around, and two<br />
bars offering cool cocktails and local draft beers.<br />
B, L, D BAR NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
FINS BAR & GRILLE<br />
142 Decatur Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-3449<br />
www.finscapemay.com<br />
Really cool decor and exciting food make this newish<br />
restaurant a welcome addition to the local landscape.<br />
It’s located at the former Pilot House, just off the mall.<br />
L, D BAR NO YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
5 WEST PUB<br />
3729 Bayshore, N. Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 889-7000<br />
www.5westpub.com<br />
410 BANK STREET<br />
410 Bank Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-2127<br />
www.410bankstreet.com<br />
JOE’S FISH CO.<br />
25th and Boardwalk, Wildwood<br />
(609) 729-3700<br />
www.moreyspiers.com<br />
A gastropub from the owners of Tisha’s, a Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
favorite. Expect exciting dishes, good drinks, and a<br />
scene that’s usually buzzing. A few minutes drive from<br />
town.<br />
After four decades, 410 still one of Cape <strong>May</strong>’s<br />
finest restaurants, serving food that’s as brilliant and<br />
inventive as ever. Always a lively atmosphere. New this<br />
year: brunch on Sundays!<br />
Enjoy a casual, contemporary meal overlooking the<br />
lights and the action of Surfside Pier in Wildwood. A<br />
great beer list and some seriously good food, including<br />
the crabby pretzel, chicken pot pie and cedar salmon.<br />
L, D BAR YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
D BYOB YES YES<br />
u<br />
L, D BAR NO YES b<br />
H<br />
JUMBO’S GRUB & PUB<br />
Mariner’s Pier, Wildwood<br />
(609) 729-3700<br />
www.moreyspiers.com<br />
Indulge in steaks, gourmet pizzas and fun cocktails,<br />
while enjoying wonderful views of the incomparable<br />
Wildwood boardwalk. Try Chef Wally’s famous Cubaninspired<br />
fries and housemade Maryland crab cakes.<br />
L, D FULL<br />
BAR<br />
NO YES b<br />
H<br />
SYMBOLS KEY u Onsite parking b Handicap accessible<br />
H Takeout available U Dog-friendly patio<br />
exit zero 16 april-may
ORGANIC, LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE<br />
EXTENSIVE SUPPLEMENT SECTION & KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF<br />
ORGANIC, VEGAN & GLUTEN FREE GROCERIES GALORE<br />
LOTS OF MONTHLY SALES! ORGANIC JUICE BAR & CAFÉ!<br />
OPEN<br />
YEAR<br />
ROUND<br />
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for flash sales and specials!<br />
3156 Rt. 9 South | Rio Grande, NJ 08242<br />
609.463.0606 | greenstreetmarket.com<br />
exit zero 17 april-may
THE ULTIMATE CAPE MAY FOOD & DRINK CHART<br />
What you<br />
need to<br />
know about<br />
the food<br />
and vibe<br />
Meals<br />
served<br />
Bar or<br />
BYOB?<br />
Should I<br />
book?<br />
Food for<br />
kids?<br />
Other<br />
details<br />
HARBOR VIEW<br />
954 Ocean Drive<br />
(609) 884-5444<br />
www.harborviewcapemay.com<br />
A locals’ favorite for a reason. There’s a Key West<br />
vibe, good food, regular entertainment, and the views<br />
are spectacular. Spend the day — or night. Check out<br />
their Burger Mania on Sundays.<br />
B, L, D BAR NO YES u b<br />
H<br />
HARPOONS ON THE BAY<br />
Beach Drive and Browning<br />
(609) 886-5529<br />
www.harpoonhenrys.net<br />
It’s become famous for its sunsets. Sip on a cold beer<br />
or a funky iced cocktail, listen to fun live music, and<br />
watch a beautiful day slip away. And note that the<br />
menu has a LOT of excellent new dishes.<br />
L, D BAR NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
HARRY’S OCEAN BAR & GRILLE<br />
Madison & Beach Avenue<br />
(609) 884-2779<br />
www.harryscapemay.com<br />
The Montreal Inn’s restaurant successfully mixes a<br />
friendly, family feel with a stylish oceanfront vibe. And<br />
you’re going to love the renovation, with the indoor/<br />
outdoor bar.<br />
B, L, D BAR YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
ICCARA<br />
311 Mansion Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-0200<br />
www.iccaracapemay.com<br />
Just steps from the Washington Street Mall, Iccara<br />
Italian Bistro & Seafood brings you the fresh flavors<br />
of Italy in a charming, welcoming atmosphere. D BYOB YES YES u b<br />
IRON PIER CRAFT HOUSE<br />
429 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-1925<br />
www.ironpiercrafthouse.com<br />
Remember Martini Beach, above Cabanas? Well,<br />
Iron Pier is there now. Same owners, but a delicious<br />
new menu, great new craft beer list, and the decor<br />
got a nice spruce-up, too!<br />
D<br />
FULL<br />
BAR YES YES<br />
H<br />
LA VERANDAH<br />
107-113 Grant Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-5868<br />
www.hotelalcott.com<br />
The ambience at this restaurant in the Hotel Alcott<br />
may be Victorian, but the fare is contemporary<br />
American. An excellent three-star restaurant with an<br />
attentive staff.<br />
D BYOB YES YES<br />
b<br />
THE LOBSTER HOUSE<br />
Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-8296<br />
www.thelobsterhouse.com<br />
Take-out, fish market, restaurant, raw bar... the<br />
Lobster House has it all. Drinks on the Schooner<br />
American, watching the boats before dinner, is a<br />
lovely experience.<br />
B, L, D BAR NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
LOUISA’S CAFÉ<br />
104 Jackson Street<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-5882<br />
This tiny, loveable spot has been a favorite for four<br />
decades. Expect fresh, simple, delicious food, using<br />
produce from the local Beach Plum Farm.<br />
D BYOB YES NO b<br />
LUCKY BONES<br />
1200 Route 109, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-BONE<br />
www.luckybonesgrill.com<br />
A huge hit and locals’ favorite for a reason. Excellent<br />
food, great bar vibe, superb service. Lucky Bones<br />
gets it right every single time.<br />
L, D BAR<br />
For<br />
tables of<br />
eight or<br />
more<br />
YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
MAD BATTER<br />
19 Jackson Street<br />
(609) 884-5970<br />
www.madbatter.com<br />
MARIO’S PIZZA<br />
Washington Commons<br />
(609) 884-0085<br />
www.mariosofcapemay.com<br />
It’s the original fine dining restaurant in Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
The food is always creative and the breakfasts and<br />
brunches, hard to beat — hence the lines.<br />
Homemade specialties and secret sauces, from<br />
classic pizza (using homemade dough daily) to<br />
paninis, garlic knots and pasta dishes.<br />
B, L, D BAR YES YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
L, D BYOB NO YES u b<br />
H<br />
MAYER’S TAVERN<br />
894 3rd Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 435-5078<br />
www.mayerstavern.com<br />
The legendary (and infamous) harborfront dive<br />
bar reopened last year, with a smart renovation<br />
undertaken by the Laudeman family. But the<br />
character remains, along with those fried scallops.<br />
L, D FULL<br />
BAR<br />
NO YES u b<br />
H<br />
SYMBOLS KEY u Onsite parking b Handicap accessible<br />
H Takeout available U Dog-friendly patio<br />
exit zero 18 april-may
exit zero 19 april-may
THE ULTIMATE CAPE MAY FOOD & DRINK CHART<br />
What you<br />
need to<br />
know about<br />
the food<br />
and vibe<br />
Meals<br />
served<br />
Bar or<br />
BYOB?<br />
Should I<br />
book?<br />
Food for<br />
kids?<br />
Other<br />
details<br />
MERION INN<br />
106 Decatur Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-8363<br />
www.merioninn.com<br />
The dim, amber lighting, classic wooden bar, period<br />
fittings and classy staff deliver a special ambience.<br />
Listen to live piano music as you eat, or linger over<br />
expertly made cocktails at the bar.<br />
D<br />
FULL<br />
BAR YES YES u b<br />
H U<br />
OCEAN VIEW<br />
Beach & Grant Avenues<br />
(609) 884-3772<br />
www.oceanviewrestaurant.com<br />
At this oceanfront staple, expect a large menu, full<br />
of classic diner food that’s reasonably priced. Locals<br />
frequent it, and you know that is always a good sign.<br />
B, L, D BYOB NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
ON THE ROCKS<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> – Lewes Ferry,<br />
1200 Lincoln Boulevard,<br />
North Cape <strong>May</strong>, 1-800-64FERRY<br />
Casual waterfront dining watching the ferry and other<br />
vessels transit the Cape <strong>May</strong> Canal to and from the<br />
Delaware Bay. There is a very cool vibe at the outdoor<br />
bar.<br />
B, L, D BAR NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
OUT THERE COFFEE<br />
315 Ocean Street at<br />
Washington Commons, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
outtherecoffee@gmail.com<br />
OYSTER BAY<br />
615 Lafayette Street<br />
(609) 884-2111<br />
www.oysterbayrestaurantnj.com<br />
This brainchild of thirtysomething couple Nikki and<br />
Craig is a little slice of Colorado in Cape <strong>May</strong>. Expect<br />
gourmet, imaginative coffee AND teas, along with<br />
ridiculously tasty scratch-made treats.<br />
A lovely dining room, a buzzy separate bar, a new bar<br />
menu, great martinis and classic, generous dishes.<br />
Check out their happy hour from 4-6pm.<br />
B, L N/A NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
D BAR YES YES u b<br />
H<br />
PETER SHIELDS INN<br />
1301 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-9090<br />
www.petershieldsinn.com<br />
The Georgian Revival mansion on Cape <strong>May</strong>’s<br />
beachfront is magnificent, and the creative modern<br />
American menu matches it all the way. A classy<br />
eating experience.<br />
D BYOB NO NO<br />
H<br />
PIGDOG BEACH BAR & BQ<br />
Mariner’s Pier, Wildwood<br />
(609) 729-3700<br />
www.moreyspiers.com<br />
This new barefoot beach bar in Wildwood is a<br />
dog-friendly, BBQ spot right on the beach. Great<br />
sandwiches and salads, and don’t miss the foot-long<br />
PigDog Dog. Fun cocktails and live music, too.<br />
L, D BAR NO YES<br />
b<br />
U H<br />
QUINCY’S LOBSTER ROLLS<br />
709 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 600-3571<br />
Quincy’s serve great rolls, with generous servings of<br />
Maine lobster, plus there are loads of non-lobster<br />
choices for kids.<br />
L, D N/A NO YES<br />
b<br />
U H<br />
RIO STATION<br />
3505 Route 9 South<br />
Rio Grande<br />
(609) 889-2000<br />
RUSTY NAIL<br />
205 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-0017<br />
www.caperesorts.com/rusty-nail<br />
SAPORE ITALIANO<br />
416 South Broadway<br />
West Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 600-1422<br />
SALT WATER CAFE<br />
1231 Route 109, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-2403<br />
www.saltwatercafecapemay.com<br />
With a new menu, Rio Station offers steaks, local<br />
seafood, creative salads, vegetarian options and<br />
an award-winning wine list. Plus 14 beers on tap,<br />
including local crafts.<br />
Coldest beer and coolest vibe in town. The iconic<br />
Rusty Nail is the place to be for a uniquely Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
experience. And they even have non-alcoholic brew<br />
for dogs!<br />
Located in a magnificent Victorian mansion, and<br />
the food does it justice. Excellent Italian food and a<br />
lovely family-style ambience.<br />
A fairly new addition to the Cape <strong>May</strong> food scene.<br />
The harbor setting is mighty fine, and so is the food,<br />
which is freshly prepared. The soups are simply<br />
superb.<br />
B, L, D BAR YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
B, L, D BAR NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H U<br />
D BYOB YES YES u b<br />
H<br />
B, L, D BYOB N/A YES u b<br />
H U<br />
SYMBOLS KEY u Onsite parking b Handicap accessible<br />
H Takeout available U Dog-friendly patio<br />
exit zero 20 april-may
award-winning dining<br />
BEST AMERICAN &<br />
TOP 25 RESTAURANTS IN THE STATE<br />
- new jersey monthly<br />
Winner 2018 OpenTable<br />
Diners’ Choice Award<br />
3-course Prix Fixe $39<br />
5pm-6pm<br />
oceanfront porch dining available<br />
Weddings l Rehearsals l Private Parties<br />
BEACH AVENUE & HOWARD STREET<br />
At the Hotel Macomber<br />
609-884-8811<br />
unionparkdiningroom.com<br />
RECENT TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS...<br />
“A dining experience that was perfect.”<br />
“The service was wonderful, as was the<br />
atmosphere. Highly recommended.”<br />
“The food was delicious and the service was<br />
superb. Much of the food is locally sourced,<br />
and the chef is talented!”<br />
exit zero 21 april-may
THE ULTIMATE CAPE MAY FOOD & DRINK CHART<br />
What you<br />
need to<br />
know about<br />
the food<br />
and vibe<br />
Meals<br />
served<br />
Bar or<br />
BYOB?<br />
Should I<br />
book?<br />
Food for<br />
kids?<br />
Other<br />
details<br />
SEASALT<br />
1035 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-7000<br />
www.seasaltcapemay.com<br />
SHAMONE<br />
421 Washington Street<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-6088<br />
STUBBORN BROTHERS<br />
Surfside Pier, Wildwood<br />
(609) 729-3700<br />
www.moreyspiers.com<br />
TISHA’S<br />
322 Washington Street Mall<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-9119<br />
TOMMY’S FOLLY CAFÉ<br />
251 Beach Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-6522<br />
www.caperesorts.com<br />
UGLY MUG<br />
426 Washington Street Mall<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-3459<br />
Black wood and granite tables, mother-of-pearl<br />
barfront, river rock decor... the vibe is as cool as the<br />
food is delicious. Reserve the chef’s intimate private<br />
table for up to 14.<br />
Looking for something different? The Karapanagiotis<br />
brothers offer one 15-course tasting menu nightly. For<br />
$35. It’s an adventure for your tastebuds.<br />
Steps from Wildwood’s famous boardwalk, a<br />
relaxing, tropical-style venue with good food and<br />
entertainment. Favorites include Baja fish tacos,<br />
crabby cake sandwich and the Pirate Punch cocktail.<br />
A hot spot on the Washington Street Mall, where<br />
they serve up irresistible concoctions for breakfast,<br />
lunch and dinner. A great people-watching spot, too.<br />
Situated in the lobby of Congress Hall, this shop has<br />
great coffee and to-go breakfast goodies, as well as<br />
healthy and tasty lunch wraps, plus soups, shakes and<br />
more.<br />
A Cape <strong>May</strong> legend, and a good place to stop while<br />
shopping on the mall. Such a treat. It has a classic pub<br />
vibe, and always a warm, friendly atmosphere.<br />
B, L, D BAR YES YES u b<br />
H<br />
D BYOB YES NO<br />
L, D BAR NO YES<br />
b<br />
H<br />
L, D BYOB YES YES<br />
b U<br />
B, Café NO NO YES ub<br />
H U<br />
L, D BAR NO YES b<br />
H<br />
UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKE HOUSE<br />
Beach Avenue and Perry Street,<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-7199<br />
Reliably good food for breakfast and lunch — there<br />
is a reason why people wait in line here. You can sit<br />
outside with ocean and beach views and dine with<br />
your dog if the weather is nice.<br />
B, L BYOB NO YES<br />
ub<br />
H U<br />
UNION PARK<br />
Beach Avenue & Howard<br />
(609) 884-8811<br />
www.unionparkdiningroom.com<br />
Exquisite dining in a classic old hotel, where both the<br />
decor and the food are inspired. Voted one of the<br />
best restaurants in the state by New Jersey Monthly<br />
magazine.<br />
D BYOB YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
VIGGIANO’S ON SUNSET<br />
109 Sunset Blvd, West Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
484-344-5561<br />
www.viggianosbyob.com<br />
VINCENZO’S LITTLE ITALY II<br />
3704 Bayshore Road<br />
North Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 889-6610<br />
WASHINGTON INN<br />
801 Washington, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 884-5697<br />
www.washingtoninn.com<br />
THE YB<br />
314 Beach Avenue,<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 898-2009<br />
A new family-friendly Italian restaurant, from the<br />
same owners as the popular Conshocken restaurant.<br />
Expect classic Italian food done right and a welcome<br />
as hearty as the pasta dishes.<br />
If you want to bring the family for a fine and fun<br />
Italian meal, look no further. The kids will love<br />
it. Excellent pasta dishes, and they’ve recently<br />
expanded their pizzeria.<br />
Superb gourmet food, and a cool but cozy bar. Check<br />
out an amazing wine list of over 10,000 bottles;<br />
they’ve got the largest wine cellar in South Jersey.<br />
The chef and manager just took over this popular<br />
eatery. The food and service is as good as ever, and<br />
the renovation is beautiful! Enjoy both brunch and<br />
dinner time in this cozy beachfront eatery.<br />
D BYOB NO YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
L, D BYOB YES YES<br />
u b<br />
H<br />
D BAR YES YES u b<br />
H<br />
B, D BYOB YES YES b<br />
H<br />
SYMBOLS KEY u Onsite parking b Handicap accessible<br />
H Takeout available U Dog-friendly patio<br />
exit zero 22 april-may
FINE DINING<br />
Rated #1<br />
Restaurant<br />
in West<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Open for dinner daily from 4pm<br />
416 S BROADWAY, WEST CAPE MAY<br />
609-600-1422 • @saporeitalianous<br />
exit zero 23 april-may
Cape <strong>May</strong> has never seen anything like it!<br />
Gas station<br />
with oldfashioned<br />
service<br />
Restaurant &<br />
bar serving<br />
fab burgers,<br />
Indian & Thai<br />
Coffee shop<br />
& breakfast/<br />
lunch to-go<br />
specials<br />
Exit Zero<br />
merchandise<br />
& souvenir<br />
store<br />
110 Sunset Boulevard 609-770-8479 exitzero.com
in many ways, jackson o’brien — jax to his friends — is a normal<br />
16-year-old kid. A sophomore at Lower Cape <strong>May</strong> Regional High<br />
School, he enjoys hanging with friends and going for food at 5<br />
West Pub. Then there’s the flipside of Jackson — the phenom.<br />
At a recent dance competition in Somerset, New Jersey, against<br />
more than 500 entries, he won the whole contest. This July, he’ll<br />
compete at nationals in Atlantic City.<br />
“<strong>May</strong>be once every 20 years you’ll see a boy like Jackson<br />
come along,” says Amy Young, owner of Cape <strong>May</strong> Dancers,<br />
where Jackson trains. “He’s as good, right now, as a Broadway<br />
dancer. It’s just a matter of when he chooses to audition.”<br />
While most promising young dancers excel at one style —<br />
modern, tap, hip hop or ballet — Jackson is at home in any category.<br />
And then, according to his instructors, it’s his drive that<br />
takes him to the next level.<br />
“Even though he was the best, he’s going to work even<br />
harder now,” Amy says. “That’s Jackson. Even as a little kid, he<br />
was always striving to be better. He has an unmatched passion<br />
and work ethic, and that’s going to take him so far.”<br />
We sat down with Jackson to discuss this love affair with<br />
dance, his future ambitions, and some other thoughts from one<br />
of the coolest kids on the Cape…<br />
You broke your ankle! How’d that happen? I did a backflip<br />
off a trampoline at dance and rolled my foot when I landed.<br />
The doctors said I chipped a bone, but they were more worried<br />
about my ligaments because my ankle swelled so much.<br />
How long are you sidelined? About a month, to be safe.<br />
The first time I broke my ankle, I thought it would take forever,<br />
but two weeks after getting out of the boot I was back to normal.<br />
Hopefully this will be the same because by the time I’m off<br />
crutches it will be recital season.<br />
Exactly how many times have you broken an ankle? I rolled<br />
the left ankle in eighth grade. In September of the same year<br />
I broke the right one doing a leap. I rolled the right one really<br />
badly at a competition rehearsal, so that was a couple weeks in<br />
a lace-up ankle thing. Then, at the end of March, this fracture.<br />
Do you go crazy when you aren’t able to dance? Injuries<br />
are so inevitable that, no matter how severe, I’m like, “Oh, I’m<br />
fine!” It’s when I’m back home that I get scared I won’t dance<br />
for a long time.<br />
INTRODUCING...<br />
Jackson O’Brien, the teenage<br />
dance phenom who plans to flip,<br />
axel, cakewalk and barrel jump all<br />
the way to Broadway.<br />
interview diane stopyra<br />
photography suzanne kulperger<br />
Did you always dream of being a dancer? My mom says<br />
when I was young I’d twirl around our living room and never stop
exit zero 27 april-may
moving, so she thought, “This kid is going to be<br />
a dancer. There’s nothing else he can do.” Turns<br />
out, this IS the only thing I can do! My parents<br />
were in theater, so I think that’s part of my draw<br />
to performing. I think it’s in my genes.<br />
What do you aspire to do? My teachers<br />
joke that when they’re old and retired, I’ll be<br />
running the studio. But when I’m out of college,<br />
I’d like to audition for professional dance<br />
studios and Broadway musicals before getting<br />
into teaching. So there’s a lot of things I hope<br />
to do.<br />
What’s your typical dance week look like?<br />
Mondays, I take an hour-and-a-half of ballet<br />
and an hour-and-a-half of modern. Tuesday is<br />
one of my teaching days at the studio, so I help<br />
with the little kids from 3:30pm-8pm and then<br />
from 8pm-9pm I’ll take my Broadway jazz class.<br />
Wednesdays I teach from 4pm to 7:30pm, then<br />
sometimes, if there are dances that need to<br />
be finished, we’ll call rehearsal until 8 or 9pm.<br />
Thursdays I dance from 4pm-9pm. And Saturdays<br />
are my very long day, where I can be there<br />
from 9am to 9pm.<br />
That’s a lot. When do you do schoolwork?<br />
My parents have always been strict<br />
about homework, but they also know I’m a<br />
hard-working student. If I don’t get it done, I<br />
will be mad at myself. I panic more than them!<br />
I can get very worked up over due dates, but,<br />
fortunately, my teachers are very understanding<br />
of my work schedule. I missed a history<br />
assignment recently and I was so upset, but<br />
my teacher said, “Trust me, Jackson, after what<br />
you’ve been through recently with competitions<br />
and musical rehearsals and the broken<br />
ankle, I understand.” They know I will turn it in.<br />
What is it about dance — which is so<br />
demanding — that keeps you in it? There is the<br />
athletic piece, and there is the self-expression<br />
component. And I love all of that. But because<br />
of the studio I go to, what I love so much is the<br />
positive energy that dance gives everyone.<br />
We’re very supportive of one another. You can<br />
mess up, but at the end we’ll all be hugging you<br />
and saying, “You did great! Don’t even worry<br />
about it!” I would say the most important thing,<br />
and the thing that appeals to me most, is that<br />
supportive energy and connection with everyone.<br />
Your dad Terry writes the Exit Zero weekly<br />
Undertow column. How’s it feel to be the son<br />
of a famous Cape <strong>May</strong> columnist? It’s very<br />
cool! Though I don’t always acknowledge it.<br />
exit zero 28 april-may<br />
We’ve been hearing about the millennial<br />
generation for so long. Focus is now starting<br />
to shift to Gen Z in a big way. What do you<br />
think the principal value of your generation<br />
will be? We’re very determined. For me, it’s<br />
getting certain steps down or learning certain<br />
styles of dance. But all my peers are the same<br />
way. We want to work hard, and we know if we<br />
put our minds to it, whatever it is, we’ll be good.<br />
Do you think there’s still a stigma around<br />
guys in ballet. Or is that eroding? It’s still<br />
there, but I don’t think it’s as noticeable as it<br />
used to be. Reality TV dance competitions<br />
have helped with that. And I’ve seen male<br />
dancers going viral or appearing on the Ellen<br />
DeGeneres show. I played a dancer and choreographer<br />
in this year’s high school musical, a<br />
murder-mystery-comedy called Curtains which<br />
had a lot of dancing in it. My brother Owen was<br />
in the show as well, and he said to me, “After<br />
this, I have so much respect for what you<br />
do.” It’s cool to see how people have a better<br />
appreciation for guy dancers and male ballet<br />
dancers in particular.<br />
Who are your heroes? My parents. Also<br />
my dance teachers. They’ve been my second<br />
parents since I was five. I owe them all so much.
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exit zero 29 april-may
a cape may moment<br />
Brave souls head for the Atlantic at the annual Carney’s Polar Bear Plunge on March 16. Aleksey Moryakov<br />
Eat, Drink & Be Merry!<br />
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Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Everyday!<br />
• Chef-grown chilis used in our housemade hot sauces for our Award Winning Wings.<br />
• Healthy Vegetarian & Gluten Free Options • <strong>2019</strong> Winner ~ Cape <strong>May</strong> Clam Chowder Contest<br />
• 14 Rotating Craft Selections along with our 10 Year Wine Spectator Award Winning Wine List<br />
• Still the Best Crab Cakes...7 years in a row<br />
Mimosas, Bloody Marys & Brunch Galore Every Sunday 7:30 am to 3 pm.<br />
Happy Hour - Monday - Friday 4 to 6 pm<br />
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Breakfast - 7:30 am to 1 pm Monday to Saturday • Sunday Brunch - 7:30 am to 3 pm • Lunch - 11 am to 4 pm Daily<br />
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• Routes 9 & 47, Rio Grande, NJ 08242 • 609.889.2000 • Reservations Suggested • www.riostation.
events around the cape<br />
<strong>April</strong> 26-October 14<br />
Carroll Gallery Exhibit:<br />
The Iconic Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse:<br />
From the Pages of The First Resort<br />
In the Carroll Gallery in the Carriage House at<br />
the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington<br />
Street, Curator Ben Miller, author of the<br />
best-selling Cape <strong>May</strong> history book The<br />
First Resort, provides visitors with a unique<br />
look at the iconic Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse.<br />
Illuminating darkness over the Atlantic<br />
Ocean and Delaware Bay for 160 years, Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong>’s lighthouse is the third beacon to guide<br />
mariners through the tumultuous waters at the<br />
confluence of the ocean and bay. Memories<br />
and historic images abound, from the keepers<br />
who dedicated their lives to maintaining the<br />
light, the MAC preservationists who restored<br />
it, and all those who’ve relied upon it for over<br />
a century and a half. Admission is free. Open<br />
daily; times vary. Call 609-884-5404 or visit<br />
capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>April</strong> 26-<strong>May</strong> 19<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>’s Spring Celebration<br />
Celebrate the season of spring in America’s<br />
first seaside resort with four weeks of events<br />
including a private homes tour, ghost tours,<br />
food and wine events, a Sip Into Spring Festival<br />
and crafts show, living history programs,<br />
Armed Forces Day, murder mystery dinners<br />
and much more. Call 609-884-5404 or visit<br />
capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 4<br />
Mad Batter Wine Dinner Spring Sampler<br />
Welcome spring during this five-course meal<br />
featuring a sampler of wines inspired by the<br />
season, presented at The Mad Batter Restaurant,<br />
19 Jackson Street. Limited to 60. $75 per<br />
person (tax and gratuity included). 7:30pm.<br />
Call 609-884-5404 or visit www.capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 4<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Wine Trail<br />
Spend an afternoon visiting Cape <strong>May</strong> County’s<br />
wineries and sampling the unique flavors<br />
of each. Travel by trolley and enjoy lunch at<br />
Willow Creek Winery where you’ll enjoy tastings<br />
and a brief tour. You’ll also travel to Natali<br />
Vineyards for tastings there with cheese and<br />
crackers and receive a souvenir glass. Admission<br />
is $75. 11am. Call 609-884-5404 or visit<br />
capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 4<br />
United States Coast Guard<br />
Community Festival<br />
Festival goers will explore the extensive TRA-<br />
CEN base on foot and by trolley, get an inside<br />
look at US Coast Guard vessels and view a<br />
Coast Guard helicopter up close. The Coast<br />
Guard Recruit Band and drill team will give<br />
engaging performances and US Coast Guard<br />
Air Station Atlantic City will conduct thrilling<br />
search and rescue demonstrations. There will<br />
be tours of Cape <strong>May</strong> Harbor, children’s activities,<br />
interactive displays, vendors, food, beer,<br />
live music and cultural and historical exhibits.<br />
Admission is free. 1 Munro Avenue. Call 609-<br />
898-6900.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 4, 11, 18<br />
Murder Mystery Dinner<br />
exit zero 31 april-may
Coffees & Smoothies<br />
Breakfast Sandwiches<br />
Specialty Sandwiches<br />
Bagels & Baked Goods<br />
Cappuccinos & Lattes<br />
Gourmet Cream Cheese<br />
The scene and the table are both set for a new mystery, “Bumped Off<br />
& Bottoms Up,” that will stimulate your imagination and satisfy your<br />
craving for a good whodunit. Enjoy a four-course dinner at Aleathea’s<br />
Restaurant, the Inn of Cape <strong>May</strong>, 7 Ocean Street as you interact with<br />
the cast of likely suspects and the mystery unfolds around you. 7pm.<br />
Admission $60; Children (ages 3-12) $30. Call 609-884-5404 or visit<br />
www.capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 5<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Wine School<br />
Increase your knowledge of wines during the Cape <strong>May</strong> Wine School<br />
at 1pm. You’ll refine your palate at the Washington Inn, 801 Washington<br />
Street. Admission is $40. To purchase tickets, call The Washington<br />
Inn directly at 609-884-5697.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 7<br />
Feasting on History<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> County’s favorite restaurants, wineries, food trucks, distilleries,<br />
and breweries generously donate delicious food, signature dishes,<br />
wine, craft beers, and desserts. Last year over 500 guests enjoyed a<br />
night of food, music, and networking while celebrating the mission of<br />
Historic Cold Spring Village. 6-9pm. Call 609-898-2300.<br />
7 Gurney Street (corner of Beach), Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
609-898-8088 open daily @ 6am<br />
Awarded prestigious<br />
three stars by the<br />
Press of Atlantic City<br />
Nestled in the secondoldest<br />
operating hotel in<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>, La Verandah<br />
serves up mouthwatering<br />
dishes in a truly Victorian<br />
setting. Dine on the porch<br />
and take in the ocean<br />
breeze or enjoy your meal<br />
in an intimate dining room.<br />
reservations encouraged<br />
107-113 GRANT STREET, CAPE MAY<br />
(609) 884-5868 HOTELALCOTT.COM<br />
Perfect venue for an elegant wedding by the sea<br />
<strong>May</strong> 11<br />
Sip Into Spring Festival<br />
Enjoy the lovely grounds of the Physick Estate transformed by vendors<br />
and crafters into an outdoor marketplace. Celebrate the season of rebirth<br />
and new growth! Be inspired by gardening and nature activities<br />
and demonstrations, and enjoy music, festival food, wine, beer, Bloody<br />
Marys and mimosas. Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street.<br />
Free admission. 10am to 4pm. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 11<br />
Chocolate Lovers Feast<br />
Chocolate lovers unite! You’ll savor a sumptuous chocolate buffet of<br />
chocolate desserts at The Washington Inn at 1pm. Admission is $40.<br />
Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 12<br />
Jazz Brunch at the Estate for Mother’s Day<br />
Celebrate Mother’s Day under the tent at the Carriage House Café &<br />
Tearoom with brunch and enjoy live jazz from The Great American<br />
Songbook with Mary Lou Newnam, saxophone, and Sonny Troy, guitar.<br />
Advance reservations recommended. $30. 10am. Call 609-884-<br />
5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 18<br />
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb<br />
Let the light of the full moon guide you up the 199 stairs to the starry<br />
top. Don’t miss a rare opportunity to see the light of the moon at the<br />
top, weather permitting. The Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse is located in Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Point State Park. 8-10pm. $15 for adults, $8 for children (ages<br />
3-12). Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 18<br />
Armed Forces Day Ceremony at the World War II Lookout Tower<br />
The fully restored World War II Lookout Tower is the perfect setting to<br />
pay tribute to the dedicated men and women who have helped preserve<br />
our freedom. 11am. Free admission. Tower is located on Sunset Boule-<br />
exit zero 32 april-may
vard. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 19<br />
Brunch, Bingo & Lace<br />
Laugh along with friends as you play a little bingo, enjoy a fashion<br />
show by Lace Silhouettes/Cotton Company and compete for prizes,<br />
all during a delicious brunch at the Inn of Cape <strong>May</strong>, 7 Ocean Street at<br />
9:30am. Admission is $25. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.<br />
org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 24-27<br />
Wildwoods International Kite Festival<br />
On the beach at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood, NJ and inside the<br />
Wildwoods Convention Center. Event begins on Friday at noon with<br />
the Unlocking of the Ocean media event outside of the Wildwoods<br />
Convention Center. Festivities following include opening of the kite<br />
sales tent, a Friday night social via the local kite club and the 9 p.m.<br />
illuminated kite fly. Saturday includes the silent and loud auctions<br />
(open to all) and Saturday and Sunday include the flying of large inflatable<br />
kites, sport kite demo’s, team flying as well as family games.<br />
Monday features the World Indoor Kite competition inside the Wildwoods<br />
Convention Center. FREE to spectators.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 25<br />
Kiwanis Club Annual Yard Sale<br />
We can promise great finds... with your name on them. Kiwanis<br />
Clubhouse, 1041 Beach Avenue. 7am-2pm. Call 609-884-8888.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 26-June 14<br />
30th Annual Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival<br />
Enjoy world-class orchestral and chamber, jazz, Celtic and brass band<br />
music and Bach’s Lunches. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.<br />
org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 26<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: Atlantic Brass Band<br />
Opening the 29th Annual Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival at 7pm is the<br />
35-piece Atlantic Brass Band, a long time Cape <strong>May</strong> favorite, under the<br />
baton of Salvatore Scarpa. They’ll present a rousing concert of American<br />
music, perfect for a Memorial Day weekend celebration. Rotary<br />
Bandstand, 400 Lafayette Street. Admission is free. Call 609-884-<br />
5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 27<br />
Memorial Day Ceremony<br />
Amidst all the barbequing and beach-playing of a long weekend, it’s<br />
important to remember the reason for the holiday. Honor America’s<br />
fallen heroes at this event, held at the Columbia Avenue All Wars<br />
Monument at 9am, and at Cape <strong>May</strong> Convention Hall at 11am. Call<br />
609-884-9565 or visit discovercapemaynj.com.<br />
COOL BREWS!<br />
SUNSET LIQUORS<br />
Let the fun begin!<br />
beer + wine + spirits + tobacco<br />
Sunset & broadway, west cape may « 609-435-5052<br />
Uncle Bill’s<br />
& FAMILY RESTAURANT<br />
Pancakes, perfected!<br />
<strong>May</strong> 28<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: New York Chamber Ensemble<br />
They’ll rock your world... and your eardrums. The event starts at<br />
8pm. General admission is $20, Seniors $15, Students $5. Episcopal<br />
Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin Street. Call 609-884-5404 or visitcapemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 29<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: Bach’s Lunch<br />
exit zero 33 april-may<br />
BEACH AVENUE & PERRY STREET<br />
609-884-7199 « Pet-Friendly Outdoor Seating!
Adored by Visitors<br />
Loved by Locals!<br />
Enjoy a mini-concert by members of the Bay-Atlantic Symphony, as<br />
well as Tea Luncheon at the Carriage House Café & Tearoom located<br />
on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street,<br />
12:30pm. $35 per person. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
<strong>May</strong> 30<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival – New Jersey Symphony<br />
Orchestra Chamber Players:<br />
New Jersey’s premier chamber ensemble, the New Jersey Symphony<br />
Orchestra Chamber Players, returns for another program from the<br />
classical repertoire at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, Washington<br />
and Franklin streets. Admission is adults $20, seniors $15 and students<br />
$5. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
June 1<br />
Strawberry Festival<br />
A small-town smorgasbord of entertainment, crafts and food including<br />
plenty of strawberries. Plus, sink your teeth in the best<br />
strawberry shortcake you will ever eat! The Strawberry Queen and<br />
King will be crowned at the end of the day. From 9am to 5pm at Wilbraham<br />
Park, in West Cape <strong>May</strong>. Free admission. Rain date June 2.<br />
Visit westcapemay.us.<br />
Beach & Grant, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
609-884-3772<br />
June 2<br />
Champagne Jazz Brunch at Aleathea’s<br />
Linger over a Sunday morning champagne brunch buffet at Aleathea’s<br />
Restaurant at the Inn of Cape <strong>May</strong>, 7 Ocean Street, with live jazz from<br />
The Great American Songbook, by Mary Lou Newnam, saxophone and<br />
Sonny Troy, guitar. At 10am, $35. To purchase tickets call The Inn of<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> at 609-884-5555. Call 609-884-5404.<br />
American Cuisine<br />
Freshest Seafood<br />
Sizzling Steaks<br />
Great Bar Menu<br />
HAPPY HOUR 4-6 DAILY<br />
615 LAFAYETTE STREET, CAPE MAY<br />
609-884-2111 • oysterbayrestaurant.com<br />
June 2, 13<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: New York Chamber Ensemble Concert<br />
They’ll rock your world... and your eardrums. Episcopal Church of<br />
the Advent, Washington and Franklin Streets. General admission<br />
$20, Seniors $15, Students $5. 8pm. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
June 4<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: Paula Johns<br />
Paula Johns performs at Willow Creek Winery, 160-168 Stevens Street,<br />
West Cape <strong>May</strong> at 8 pm. Admission is adults $25, seniors $20 and students<br />
$10. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
June 5-8<br />
39th South Jersey Shark Tournament<br />
The 2018 South Jersey Shark Tournament at South Jersey Marina is<br />
the longest-running tournament in New Jersey and also the richest!<br />
6am-3:30pm. Call 609-884-2400 or visit southjerseytournaments.com<br />
June 5, 12<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: Bach’s Lunch<br />
Enjoy a mini-concert by members of the Bay-Atlantic Symphony and<br />
an elegant Tea Luncheon at the Carriage House Café & Tearoom located<br />
on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington<br />
Street. 12:30pm. $35 per person. Call 609-884-5404.<br />
June 6<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival Bay-Atlantic Sympony Concert<br />
exit zero 34 april-may
Snack While You Shop<br />
Stay energized with a treat while shopping at West End Garage.<br />
Featuring La Colombe Coffee products and homemade donuts.<br />
antique furniture • accessories • estate jewelry • vintage memorabilia • framed artwork • home goods<br />
609.770.8261 | 484 Perry Street, Cape <strong>May</strong> | thewestendgarage.com<br />
exit zero 35 april-may
PARADISE FOUND<br />
ª Locally Sourced Food<br />
ª Relaxing Key West Vibe<br />
ª Waterfront Dining<br />
ª Awe-Inspiring Sunsets<br />
ª Lunch & Dinner Daily<br />
ª Live Music Nightly<br />
ª Plenty of Free Parking<br />
The festival’s orchestra, the Bay-Atlantic Symphony, performs a<br />
program of Mendelssohn and Bach at the First Presbyterian Church<br />
of Cape <strong>May</strong>, 500 Hughes Street, with Conductor Jed Gaylin. Admission<br />
is $25, seniors $20, and students $10. 8pm. Call 609-884-<br />
5404.<br />
June 7-8<br />
New Year’s in North Wildwood Mummers<br />
Brigade & String Band Show<br />
Both the top Mummers Brigades AND top Mummers String Bands<br />
from the New Year’s Day Parade in Philadelphia will entertain<br />
crowds in the pub district of North Wildwood. The excitement kicks<br />
off Friday night at 6pm with the Fancy Brigade Pub Crawl through<br />
local drinking establishments in the North Wildwood Entertainment<br />
District. A colorful Mummers parade will begin at 3pm on<br />
Saturday along Olde New Jersey Avenue where you can get up-close<br />
views of the beautiful costumes and intricate dance steps. (Fancy<br />
Brigades begin at 3 p.m. and the String Band Grand Finale begins<br />
at 4:30pm) Rain date is Sunday. Admission is free, so come join in<br />
the fun and learn the famous Mummers Strut! Call 609-522-2955.<br />
June 8-9<br />
Boardwalk Craft Show<br />
Hunt for rare finds... and get a tan while you’re at it! Promenade.<br />
10am-5pm. Call 609-884-9565 or visit discovercapemaynj.com.<br />
Now Open<br />
Friday 3:00-9:00<br />
Saturday 12:00-9:00<br />
Sunday 12:00-7:00<br />
June 9<br />
Community Day<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> County residents enjoy free admission to Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Lighthouse, Emlen Physick Estate, World War II Tower and Historic<br />
District trolley tours. Show valid ID. Call 609-884-5404 or visit<br />
capemaymac.org.<br />
June 9<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: Eighth Annual George Mesterhazy<br />
Tribute Concert<br />
Come to Cape <strong>May</strong> Convention Hall to celebrate with friends and<br />
fans with an evening of selections from the Great American Songbook,<br />
under the direction of Barry Miles, featuring performances<br />
by some of George’s favorite colleagues. 8pm. General admission<br />
is $25, Seniors $20, Students $10. Call 609-884-5404 or visit capemaymac.org.<br />
91 Beach Drive, North Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
(609) 886-5529<br />
HarpoonsOnTheBay.com<br />
June 11<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: Cat’s Pajamas<br />
Enjoy this free concert featuring the talented acappella singing<br />
group at Cape <strong>May</strong> Convention Hall at 8pm. Call 609-884-5404.<br />
June 14<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Music Festival: Musical Desserts<br />
Cap off this year’s music festival with a chamber music concert and<br />
dessert at the Carriage House Café & Tearoom on the grounds of<br />
the Emlen Physick Estate at 5pm.<br />
June 15-16<br />
Military Timeline Weekend<br />
At Historic Cold Spring Village, you’ll want to check out this exhibition<br />
of various conflicts spanning several centuries including the<br />
English Hundred Years War, Boer War, American Revolution and<br />
Civil War, World War II, Korean War and more. Call 609-898-2300.<br />
exit zero 36 april-may
exit zero 37 april-may
Life At Exit<br />
Zero Filling<br />
Station?<br />
It’s A Gas.<br />
Nearly one year after opening an<br />
ambitious (crazy?) conglomeration on<br />
the island, Exit Zero owner Jack Wright<br />
dishes about what he’s learned.<br />
photography suzanne kulperger<br />
Here at Exit Zero, we’re big cheerleaders for local businesses.<br />
Whether they’re brand new, celebrating a special anniversary,<br />
or just because we want to check in to see how they’re doing,<br />
we’re quick to publish stories on them. We HAVEN’T, however,<br />
been quick to publish a story on ourselves, even though, if I do<br />
say so myself, the opening of Exit Zero Filling Station last August<br />
was a pretty big deal. It’s not often you get to see a gas station, a<br />
restaurant, a retail store and a publishing company all rolled into<br />
one. (And there’s probably a very good reason for that.) But, hey,<br />
that’s us! In the big charcoal metal building on Sunset Boulevard<br />
that a lot of people dig, and a few, well... it’s too industrial for some<br />
people’s tastes.<br />
Matters took an even more interesting turn earlier this year<br />
when Exit Zero Filling Station proudly took hold of the first-ever<br />
restaurant liquor license awarded in West Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
So I thought I would bring readers up to date with everything<br />
that’s been going on here. It hasn’t been easy. Oh no, not one little<br />
bit. Anyone who has run a restaurant will tell you so. Anyone who’s<br />
run a gas station will tell you so. Anyone who still publishes print<br />
magazines in this internet-infested age will tell you so.<br />
Excuse my self-indulgence while I share my experiences and<br />
thoughts (in a very random manner) from our first year — because<br />
who else is going to ask me?<br />
exit zero 38 april-may
exit zero 39 april-may<br />
Owner Jack Wright tries to take a minute in<br />
the middle of the hubbub at the Exit Zero<br />
Filling Station. Bathroom artwork is courtesy<br />
of Brian and Mike DeMusz.
A wise man who for decades ran a very<br />
successful restaurant with his wife in Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
told me just before I opened Exit Zero Cookhouse<br />
in 2015, “Want to know how to make a<br />
small fortune in the restaurant business? Invest<br />
a LARGE fortune!” You were so right, Steve.<br />
I was terrified of opening a restaurant, but<br />
that didn’t compare to how nervous I was at the<br />
thought of operating a gas station without any<br />
experience. I was right to be.<br />
Jerry and Andrew at Cape Harbor Shell?<br />
We might be going after the same gas customers,<br />
but those guys are classy. They’ve always<br />
been available to answer questions I have about<br />
the business. And when one of our gas dispensers<br />
got stuck in a Volvo car for 45 minutes, they<br />
came to the rescue. Apparently it happens with<br />
Volvos. Who knew? (I sure didn’t.)<br />
I would tell you about the time one of our<br />
gastenders put regular in a diesel van, but you<br />
might be scared to ever bring your vehicle here.<br />
But don’t worry, it will never happen again. It<br />
better not — cost me $700.<br />
Another thing that will never happen<br />
again? One of our gastenders (coincidentally,<br />
the same one as above) left the pumps switched<br />
on overnight. Good thing no one came to our<br />
station after hours, because they would have<br />
got a LOT of free gas.<br />
Is that gastender still working for us? Yes,<br />
because he’s a really good restaurant server<br />
and they don’t grow on trees. And when he’s<br />
not doing really stupid stuff, he’s a pretty good<br />
gastender, too. Just the other week, someone<br />
came to eat at the restaurant based on that gastender’s<br />
enthusiastic recommendation of our<br />
amazing Thai shrimp soup.<br />
Plus, we all make mistakes. I can’t blame<br />
that gastender (by the way, his name is Terry<br />
O’Brien in case you were wondering) for the<br />
time we ran out of regular gas. That one’s on me.<br />
But that’s never happened again either. Yet.<br />
Someone told me our gas prices are much<br />
higher than in Rio Grande. I asked them to check<br />
how much those guys are paying in rent over<br />
there. This building isn’t cheap. In the offseason,<br />
pumping gas here is more of a public amenity<br />
than a business. We’re not making money in January<br />
and February, but we’re going to stay open.<br />
It’s important.<br />
Back to that Thai shrimp soup... three people<br />
have told me they want to take a bath in it.<br />
I suppose the coconut milk would be good for<br />
your skin.<br />
Everyone should have to work a year in the<br />
restaurant business before they reach adulthood.<br />
It would make them much better people.<br />
And waaaaay better customers. It’s incredible<br />
exit zero 40 april-may<br />
the assumptions people make when they sit<br />
down to eat in a restaurant. I know I absolutely<br />
did before I actually operated a restaurant.<br />
If you’re going to order the well-done<br />
burger, please don’t complain that it takes<br />
nearly 15 minutes to grill. Besides, medium is the<br />
best way to enjoy our juicy burgers.<br />
The most effective way to make sure you<br />
have an enjoyable eating experience? Talk to<br />
your server, or the manager, if something is<br />
wrong. No one is TRYING to make your experience<br />
miserable. But mistakes happen in busy<br />
kitchens. Would be a miracle if they didn’t.<br />
Don’t hold it all in and vent later to TripAdvisor<br />
or Yelp. No one will think you’re a jerk if you let<br />
us know something isn’t right. We WILL think<br />
you’re a jerk if you go on social media later and<br />
write, “Probably the absolute worst restaurant<br />
experience I’ve had in Cape <strong>May</strong>,” as someone<br />
did after we ran out of waffle fries and had trouble<br />
with our receipt printer.<br />
Cooking in a busy kitchen is a way more<br />
stressful job than you can imagine (unless<br />
you’ve actually worked in a restaurant, and then<br />
you know).<br />
Cooking is so stressful that sometimes<br />
the guys in the kitchen forget to order things.<br />
Important things. Like rice. A restaurant that<br />
serves curry should never run out of rice. But
Portraits of our staff in action... or inaction. And, no, we actually DON’T deliver food to your car, though it would be very cool if we did.<br />
exit zero 41 april-may
Lots of you<br />
wonder what’s<br />
upstairs. It’s<br />
not VIP dining<br />
or a secret<br />
cocktail bar.<br />
The truth is<br />
much more<br />
mundane — it’s<br />
for storage,<br />
and where<br />
the publishing<br />
work gets<br />
done. Pictured<br />
from left:<br />
Jack Wright,<br />
Sean Hagerty,<br />
Jamie Ficke,<br />
Tish Roussos,<br />
Harley<br />
Rohrman,<br />
Garrett<br />
Thompson and<br />
Jimmy Murtha.<br />
exit zero 42 april-may
exit zero 43 april-may
one night last August, at the peak of service, we<br />
did. I ran out the kitchen, drove the car to Acme,<br />
cleared the shelves of basmati rice and drove<br />
like a maniac back to the restaurant. I was tailgating<br />
some guy in a black truck, and I hate tailgaters,<br />
but I couldn’t help it. He stopped dead<br />
in the middle of Lafayette, blocking me, and<br />
yelled out of his window... “Get off my ass, you<br />
asshole!” I yelled back, “I’m sorry! It’s an emergency!”<br />
He pulled right over and let me pass.<br />
Well, for me, it WAS an emergency.<br />
My friend Deanna, who owns the Red Store<br />
with her husband Lucas, was one of the people<br />
who had to wait a long time for their rice that<br />
night. Well, Deanna, this is why.<br />
If I thought I could get away with it, I would<br />
do away with tips tomorrow and increase our<br />
prices by 25%. But customers wouldn’t like it,<br />
and servers DEFINITELY wouldn’t. But, yes,<br />
cooks are usually woefully underpaid and they<br />
would benefit most if we did away with the<br />
tipping system. In our defense, I think we pay<br />
cooks more than a lot of people do.<br />
Speaking of prices, if you think Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
restaurants are pricey, consider this: most of<br />
them are open half the year, but they have to<br />
pay rent for the whole year. Trust me, very few<br />
of us are getting rich off this caper. The profit<br />
margins are wafer thin.<br />
But not as wafer thin as gas stations. Oy.<br />
And still speaking of prices... restaurant<br />
prices ARE going to go up by about 25% once<br />
the new minimum wage of $15 kicks in. Don’t<br />
blame us when they do.<br />
Cooking in a kitchen is very difficult. I think<br />
bartending is, too. I have a pretty agile mind, but<br />
it’s not agile enough to remember the orders of<br />
three or four different customers barking at me.<br />
Those people at the Rusty Nail on a Saturday<br />
afternoon in August or Cabanas on a Saturday<br />
night? They’re gods to me.<br />
When I shake a cocktail, my whole body<br />
shakes. Until that was pointed out to me, I didn’t<br />
realize how uncoordinated I was. So, yeah, I<br />
could definitely never be a bartender... though<br />
the Manhattans I make at home? They’re perfect.<br />
I’m not the type to feel sorry for myself but,<br />
maaaan, we’ve had a huge amount of bad luck<br />
and weird things happen to us since we opened<br />
the Filling Station last August. I hope we’re done<br />
with it. Enough excitement already.<br />
We have liquor now at the Filling Station.<br />
That’s a whole new ball of wax. I’ve been to a lot<br />
of bars and drunk a lot of booze in my time, so<br />
I’m not an amateur in this game. But there’s a lot<br />
to learn from the State of New Jersey when you<br />
get your hands on a liquor license.<br />
And I guess I never figured out how quickly<br />
you run out of booze compared to food. That’s<br />
been a learning curve.<br />
But making my first-ever cocktail list? That<br />
was surreal and a lot of fun. Felt like a kid in a<br />
candy store. I don’t mean I’m drinking the profits...<br />
I just like being surrounded by liquor. It<br />
appeals to my creative side.<br />
The best thing you can drink with a curry?<br />
Mango beer, which we have by the can. Next<br />
best is an IPA from Cape <strong>May</strong> Brew Co., though<br />
I don’t like hops, personally. And if you don’t<br />
like beer? Riesling wine is perfect. We have one<br />
called Kung Fu Riesling. Cool label.<br />
Speaking of labels? I chose our wine list<br />
100% based on how cool the labels were. So if<br />
you like the classics from France and Italy, you<br />
are going to be very disappointed — there’s not<br />
a single one on our list. But lighten up and try<br />
those cool Aussies — they always design the<br />
best labels. Besides, you can get the classics at<br />
the Washington Inn or Ebbitt Room. We always<br />
try to be a little different.<br />
Don’t mix red wine with curry. The spiciness<br />
of the red fights with the curry, and loses<br />
every time.<br />
Two people told us our Mumbai Manhattan<br />
is the best of its kind they’ve ever had. We<br />
added cardamom to the mix because, well, we<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>’s original farm-to-table<br />
CHOCOLATE BAR<br />
Dinner @ 5pm<br />
Please call to book<br />
609-884-5882 • 104 JACKSON STREET<br />
106 Jackson Street, Cape <strong>May</strong> « 609-884-5519<br />
exit zero 44 april-may
SMALL<br />
BATCH<br />
IS WHAT WE DO.<br />
Come see us in the store or connect with us online<br />
for great offers all year long.<br />
615 Moss Mill Road, Smithville, NJ<br />
smithvillepeanutbutterco.com<br />
324 Carpenter’s Lane<br />
spicecellar.net<br />
324 Carpenter’s Lane<br />
capemayoliveoilcompany.com<br />
516 Carpenter’s Lane<br />
capemaypeanutbutterco.com<br />
exit zero 45 april-may
make Indian curries, so why not?<br />
I’m still amazed by the quality of the murals<br />
on our walls. Brian and Mike DeMusz are<br />
geniuses. Modest geniuses.<br />
Bathrooms are important. I spent a lot of<br />
time trying to get the lighting right, and picking<br />
just the right kinds of graphics and phrases to<br />
use on the murals. And as for those old gas station<br />
pictures? That became an obsession. I can’t<br />
count how many hours it took to find all those.<br />
The hardest part about the restaurant<br />
business is that you can have this amazing<br />
night, where you’re packed from beginning to<br />
end, turning tables efficiently, and everyone is<br />
loving the food. But then you have to start all<br />
over again the next day and last night’s success<br />
is completely irrelevant. In the retail store, I<br />
can order merchandise that never goes off, and<br />
there’s never going to be an issue getting that<br />
T-shirt from our store server to the customer. It’s<br />
a simple and quick transaction. The retail part<br />
of this business is the only one that doesn’t give<br />
me the heebie-jeebies.<br />
In a real interview, I would be asked for my<br />
favorite dish and drink here. That would be our<br />
Mumbai Mushroom or Coco Shrimp curry (with<br />
a Mango Cart beer) or the Ridiculous Burger<br />
(with a Cape <strong>May</strong> Honey Porter). Okay, that’s it.<br />
I’m done. Come see us — and be nice!<br />
If you’re getting a little in over your head, escape into a reproduction antique diving helmet,<br />
which just happens to be for sale at Exit Zero Filling Station. Yeah, we know it’s weird.<br />
The one book you need!<br />
COOL CAPE MAY<br />
SUMMER <strong>2019</strong> – SPRING 2020<br />
WHERE TO EAT, SHOP, STAY & PLAY<br />
LITTLE ITALY II<br />
RISTORANTE<br />
Home-cooked food that will satisfy you,<br />
your family AND your wallet.<br />
Cool Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Where to Eat, Shop, Stay & Play!<br />
376 pages of great info & photography<br />
Buy from Exit Zero Filling Station at 110 Sunset,<br />
plus Whale’s Tale & Cape Atlantic Book Company<br />
Or online at ezstore.us/books<br />
PIZZA • VONGOLE ALLA CASINO • PENNE ALLA GIOVANNI<br />
SHRIMP FRA DIAVOLO • FLOUNDER MEDITERRANEAN<br />
CHICKEN SALTIMBOCCA ALLA ROMANA<br />
VEAL ALLA VINCENZO<br />
3704 BAYSHORE ROAD, NORTH CAPE MAY<br />
(Cape Plaza Shopping Center) • 889-6610<br />
exit zero 46 april-may
WOOD-FIRED BRICK OVEN PIZZA<br />
Start your night underground at the Boiler Room, where locals<br />
dine on made-to-order pizza, cold beers, and more, featuring<br />
fresh ingredients from our very own Beach Plum Farm.<br />
BEER & COCKTAILS • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • 12 HDTVS FEATURING SPORTS<br />
BOILERROOMCAPEMAY.COM<br />
DINNER, LATE-NIGHT MENUS AND TAKEOUT | 609.884.6507 | 200 CONGRESS PLACE<br />
exit zero 47 april-may
exit zero 48 april-may
SPECIAL PROMOTION<br />
HOW TO<br />
HAVE<br />
FUN IN<br />
COOL<br />
CAPE<br />
MAY &<br />
SAVE<br />
$400!<br />
Presenting the greatest<br />
collection of money-saving<br />
offers you’ve ever seen...<br />
elegantly packaged as a<br />
designer deck of cards. Turn<br />
the page for more details.<br />
exit zero 49 april-may
THE EXIT ZERO DISCOUNT DECK <strong>2019</strong><br />
USUALLY, something that seems too good to<br />
be true is just that. Well, here’s the exception<br />
to that rule! The Exit Zero Discount Deck,<br />
from Exit Zero magazine, really IS everything<br />
it appears to be... which is THE best way<br />
to enjoy Cape <strong>May</strong> while saving a lot of money. To be<br />
precise, you will save more than $400 if you use all the<br />
cards in the elegantly designed pack of cards. And all you<br />
pay is $20. Go for dinner at The Ebbitt Room, followed by<br />
breakfast at SeaSalt the next morning and you already got<br />
your money back! And unlike many other special offers,<br />
there are no exceptions or blackout days. These cards are<br />
good for every single day this year, through December 31,<br />
<strong>2019</strong>. You can buy the Exit Zero Discount Deck from the<br />
Exit Zero Filling Station, 110 Sunset Boulevard, at Collier’s<br />
Liquor Store, Coffee Tyme or Tommy’s Folly at Congress<br />
Hall. Or call us on 609-770-8479 and pay by credit card.<br />
You can also buy it online at ezstore.us.<br />
Savings you can taste!<br />
There are no hidden catches with your Discount Deck. For example,<br />
you can save $10 off the cost of lunch or dinner at the Ugly Mug, with<br />
a minimum spend of just $40! You can go any day of the week, even a<br />
Saturday in sunny August. So get out there and use your deck to enjoy the<br />
tantalizing Cape <strong>May</strong> eating experience!<br />
} participating restaurants<br />
Aleathea’s<br />
Save $5 on breakfast/lunch — minimum spend $20.<br />
Backstreet<br />
Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $75.<br />
barefoot bar & Grill<br />
Save $10 on minimum spend $35.<br />
Blue Pig TAVERN<br />
Save $5 on breakfast — minimum spend of $30.<br />
CAPE MAY Brewing Company<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $30.<br />
CAPE MAY Fish Market<br />
Save $10 on lunch/dinner — minimum spend of $50.<br />
COFFEE TYME<br />
Save $5 on minimum spend $20.<br />
cold spring brewery<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $30.<br />
delaney’s irish bar & grill<br />
Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50.<br />
THE Ebbitt Room<br />
Save $15 on dinner — minimum spend $100.<br />
exit zero filling station<br />
Save $10 on breakfast/lunch/dinner — minimum of $30.<br />
fins bar & grille<br />
Save $10 on lunch/dinner — minimum spend of $50.<br />
5 West Pub<br />
Save $10 on lunch/dinner — minimum spend $30.<br />
Harpoons ON THE BAY<br />
Save $10 on lunch/dinner — minimum spend $50.<br />
Harry’s OCEAN BAR & GRILLE<br />
Save $5 on B/L, beach service — minimum spend $20.<br />
hawk haven vineyard<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $50.<br />
Mad Batter<br />
Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50.<br />
magic brain cafÉ<br />
Save $5 on minimum spend $15.<br />
Merion Inn<br />
Save $15 on dinner — minimum spend $75.<br />
Oyster Bay<br />
Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50.<br />
quincy’s original lobster rolls<br />
Save $10 on minimum spend $50.<br />
RUSTY NAIL<br />
Save $5 on breakfast — minimum spend $25.<br />
SeaSalt<br />
Save $5 on breakfast — minimum spend $20.<br />
SeaSalt<br />
Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $40.<br />
Tisha’s<br />
Save $10 on lunch — minimum spend $30.<br />
Ugly Mug<br />
Save $10 on lunch, dinner — minimum spend $50.<br />
washington inn<br />
Save $10 on dinner — minimum spend $50.<br />
exit zero 50 april-may
HERE COMES THE: SUNRISE<br />
RISE AND SHINE WITH A HEARTY BREAKFAST<br />
Join us for seasonal signature dishes like our Huevos Rancheros, with black<br />
beans, queso fresco, salsa verde, chorizo sausage, avocado, and fresh eggs<br />
from our very own Beach Plum Farm. The warm weather has guests venturing<br />
out onto our open-air patio under sunny skies for their favorite meal.<br />
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER<br />
RESERVATIONS 609.884.8422 • THEBLUEPIGTAVERN.COM<br />
Located in Congress Hall 200 Congress Place<br />
exit zero 51 april-may
THE EXIT ZERO DISCOUNT DECK <strong>2019</strong><br />
} participating stores<br />
Savings that will inspire you<br />
THE best thing about The Exit Zero Discount Deck?<br />
It’s packed with the kind of establishments you<br />
already frequent, like Collier’s Liquor Store. Enjoy<br />
$10 off a minimum spend of $60 at the iconic Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> liquor store! Or wander down the mall to Bath<br />
Time, home of fine bath products. Or sample the goods at A<br />
Place on Earth, where you could save another $5 in minutes!<br />
Wherever you choose to go, it won’t take long to get a return<br />
on your $20 investment. Spoil yourself with a signature<br />
treatment at Accent on Beauty or Sea Spa at Congress Hall.<br />
If you’re feeling a little bit adventurous and in need of some<br />
activity during your vacation, go see the good folks at Cape Sea<br />
Excursons for some whale and dolphin watching. And for some<br />
quality theater, Cape <strong>May</strong> Stage and East Lynne are offering<br />
$10 off their regular ticket prices. That’s a pretty dramatic<br />
saving! (Get it? Drama?) Let the fun, and the savings, begin.<br />
A Place on Earth<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $30.<br />
Bath Time<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $30.<br />
Cape may Olive Oil Company<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $35.<br />
Cape may peanut butter company<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $25.<br />
Collier’s liquor store<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $60.<br />
exit zero filling station<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $50.<br />
Flying Fish studio<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $40.<br />
Good Scents<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $50.<br />
ORIGINAL FUDGE KITCHEn<br />
Save $3 on a minimum spend of $20.<br />
red oak trading<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $50.<br />
seaside Cheese<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $30.<br />
spice cellar of cape may<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $25<br />
TOMMY’S FOLLY AT CONGRESS HALL<br />
Save $10 on a minimum spend of $50.<br />
} participating salons & spas<br />
accent on Beauty<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $25.<br />
Sea Spa at congress hall<br />
Save $15 on a minimum spend of $100.<br />
} participating activities<br />
Cape may bird observatory<br />
Save $10 on any two-hour walk.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Stage<br />
Save $10 on a show ticket. (Regular $40)<br />
Cape may trolley tours<br />
Save $3 on a $15 trolley tour<br />
Cape sea excursions<br />
Save $10 on a trip. Minimum spend of $30.<br />
East Coast parasail, Jet ski & jet Boat<br />
Save $10 on some fun. Minimum spend of $40.<br />
East Lynne Theater company<br />
Save $10 on a show ticket. (Regular $35)<br />
historic cold spring village<br />
Save $5 on a minimum spend of $24.<br />
STEGER STANDUP PADDLEBOARD<br />
Save $5 on paddleboard rental — minimum $30.<br />
exit zero 52 april-may
WE’RE NOT JUST FARM TO TABLE,<br />
WE’RE THE TABLE ON THE FARM.<br />
INTIMATE SATURDAY DINNERS FEATURING<br />
OUR OWN EGGS, MEATS, & HAND-HARVESTED PRODUCE<br />
visit bpfcapemay.com to reserve<br />
140 Stevens Street, West exit zero Cape 53 april-may <strong>May</strong> | 609. 602.0128
exit zero 54 april-may
NAMED BEST HOTEL IN NEW JERSEY<br />
BY CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER<br />
Encompassing fresh sea breezes and breathtaking<br />
sunsets, all guestrooms & suites are rich in<br />
appointments, elegance and easy coastal style.<br />
Experience the spa side of life at the all-new SALT SPA.<br />
Relax the mind, renew the body, and revive the soul<br />
with an unsurpassed luxury spa experience.<br />
STONE HARBOR’S ONLY LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA<br />
609.368.0100 | reedsatshelterhaven.com<br />
A REFINED HOSPITALITY PROPERTY<br />
exit zero 55 april-may
GRAB & GO<br />
GRAB GO<br />
AT CONGRESS HALL | OPEN DAILY<br />
Start the day with a healthy breakfast treat l Grab a wrap or sandwich for lunch<br />
Refuel with a cup of La Colombe coffee<br />
And if you’re in the mood for rewarding yourself, we have pastries, cupcakes and cookies, too.<br />
200 Congress Place | tommysfollycapemay.com | 609.884.6522<br />
exit zero 56 april-may
a cape may moment<br />
Victoria Benesch rocks Cabanas during the annual Singer Songwriter Cape <strong>May</strong> event at the end of March. Aleksey Moryakov<br />
exit zero 57 april-may
exit zero 58 april-may
The Birdman of Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
David La Puma fell in love with birds in his 20s. Now, his message is<br />
to spread the gospel to the world: birding is not for geeks, and THE<br />
place to do it is right here. So where are the secret spots to enjoy<br />
our feathered friends? (AND his favorite places to get breakfast.)<br />
interview jack wright<br />
photography suzanne kulperger<br />
First, a quick bit of background, Mr Birdman.<br />
Where did you grow up and go to school? Born<br />
and raised in Miami. Studied at Ithaca College,<br />
New York, for undergraduate, did a little Masters<br />
work at Florida International University,<br />
Miami, and then my PhD at Rutgers. Two postdocs,<br />
one at NJ Audubon, another at University<br />
of Delaware, but remotely from the University<br />
of Wisconsin in Madison.<br />
Tell us about your family, and where were<br />
you guys before coming to Cape <strong>May</strong>? I’m married<br />
to a woman who is more beautiful and much<br />
smarter than I am. Inga is a landscape ecologist<br />
and is the fire-science communications director<br />
for the Northeast Fire Science Compact. She is<br />
the conduit between those doing research on<br />
wildfires and those on the ground either lighting<br />
them for prescription burning or putting<br />
them out for loss prevention. On most days<br />
she’s working from home running the website,<br />
sending out newsletters, boiling down complex<br />
research into research briefs, and planning<br />
meetings and events. Sometimes she’s out on<br />
the front lines burning or fighting fires, aka her<br />
happy place.<br />
We have two daughters, ages eight and 10,<br />
both true Jersey Girls. We’ve been in and out of<br />
New Jersey since 2004, when we came here for<br />
me to start a PhD program at Rutgers. Inga soon<br />
followed suit and began her PhD that same year.<br />
I finished in 2010 and we decided that if we<br />
were going to stay in New Jersey, we should be<br />
exit zero 59 april-may<br />
in the epicenter of bird migration that is Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong>. I approached NJ Audubon about the possibility<br />
of studying bird migration using radar,<br />
which led to a two-year postdoc in Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
During that time we had our youngest child (we<br />
would find out later that our landlady in North<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> would caution our future landlord<br />
against us because we had a home birth in the<br />
house without warning her) while living between<br />
the bay and Cox Hall Creek. What a perfect<br />
spot! Easy long walks on the bay, a wilderness<br />
playground on the other side of the road; it was<br />
great. During that time, Inga finished her PhD<br />
and landed a postdoc at University of Wisconsin<br />
in Madison. We headed out there for almost<br />
three years, during which I conducted a postdoc<br />
and worked for Leica Sport Optics as a product<br />
specialist. That job is where I traveled the<br />
most, running a booth at various birding festivals<br />
across the US.<br />
What brought you to Cape <strong>May</strong> Bird<br />
Observatory? While we were in Wisconsin,<br />
Pete Dunne had a stroke that left him partially<br />
paralyzed. Soon after, he announced that he<br />
would be stepping down from the director position<br />
at the bird observatory, and I started putting<br />
my application together.<br />
How aware were you of the organization<br />
previously? Before me and Inga left Key Largo,<br />
where we were living before heading to Rutgers,<br />
we had dinner with friends who were also living<br />
in the Keys studying birds. When they heard we
David LaPuma took over from Pete Dunne as director of<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Bird Observatory five years ago. Of his job, he<br />
says, “On the worst days, it’s work; and on the best days it’s<br />
a dream. I get to work with fantastic people who all believe<br />
in the mission we are committed to. You don’t do this work<br />
to get rich, you do it because of a fire inside you. I made a<br />
decision a long time ago that I wouldn’t work my butt off for<br />
two weeks of vacation, but rather find something that I love<br />
where it feels like I’m on vacation at work.”<br />
were going to Rutgers, they gave us the full rundown of why<br />
we had to go to Cape <strong>May</strong>. Both had worked here seasonally<br />
for the bird observatory, and both raved about the community.<br />
When I arrived in New Jersey, I quickly learned more<br />
about New Jersey Audubon, became a member of CMBO<br />
and started going on walks run by New Jersey Audubon across<br />
the state. I would go on to participate in the World Series of<br />
Birding here in Cape <strong>May</strong> for several years while at Rutgers<br />
and would meet many great Audubon staff during my graduate<br />
work. I’m always impressed with how many people I meet<br />
across the country and internationally who know of Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong>’s reputation as a birding mecca.<br />
How familiar were you with Cape <strong>May</strong> before you came<br />
here? All of my family growing up, the ones not in Florida that<br />
is, were in Bergen County or spread across the five boroughs<br />
of New York City. So when we went down the shore from my<br />
cousin’s in New Jersey, we went as far as Spring Lake. I honestly<br />
had no idea Cape <strong>May</strong> existed until I was planning to<br />
move to New Jersey for graduate school.<br />
How have you adapted to living year-round on the<br />
island? I love Cape <strong>May</strong> year-round, especially when I can<br />
travel a month in the winter. When we were in Wisconsin, it<br />
amazed me that the place still functioned at such a high level<br />
through brutal winters. I’d see people jogging, in the snow, with<br />
strollers covered in these thick plastic shells to keep the kids<br />
warm! They would even ride fat bikes on snow-packed trails to<br />
work! Our kids went to a Waldorf school that required all kids<br />
to have rain and snow gear at the school just in case. So, the<br />
kids were outside every day, rain sleet or snow! They even had<br />
a chimenea that they would light before school and the kids<br />
would warm up in between bouts of playing on the snow-covered<br />
playground. So, contrast this with Cape <strong>May</strong>, where, when<br />
it snows an inch, everyone hibernates! That has been a little<br />
harder to deal with. Even the kids’ school has a policy to not go<br />
outside when it’s below freezing. They’re getting better, but it’s<br />
a bit of an uphill battle. If you want to be a year-round community,<br />
you’ve got to find ways to be active all year. I’d like to see<br />
more activities for kids through the winter, but overall we’re<br />
happy with our community, and West Cape <strong>May</strong> is the BEST Cape <strong>May</strong>!<br />
Your favorite spot on the planet? No idea. I wouldn’t be surprised<br />
if I haven’t been there yet. Inga always accuses me of falling in love with<br />
wherever I am. The first time I call home when on a new trip, I tell them<br />
how wonderful it is, and how I could see us living there. Did that a few<br />
weeks ago when I was presenting at San Diego Bird Festival. San Diego is<br />
rad! Great landscapes, great birds, the people are great, pot is legal, and<br />
you can surf and snowboard in the same day! I fell in love. I’ll be back, but<br />
I’m not ready to pull up stakes and move out west.<br />
How many trips a year out of the country do you typically make?<br />
Depends. Since 2014 we’ve forged some wonderful partnerships with bird<br />
observatories in Sweden, the UK and Israel, so I’ve been to each of them<br />
several times over the last five years. New Jersey Audubon also has an<br />
EcoTravel program where we offer tours, so I’ve enjoyed putting together<br />
some of these, including a Wisconsin tour and a Cuba tour, the latter<br />
which I’ve run for the last two years in January. I love the tropics — we’ve<br />
done a little traveling to Panama over the last few years. It has been really<br />
cool to watch our daughters geek out in the tropics with all the wild biodiversity<br />
and new cultural experiences. I didn’t get that chance until I was<br />
out of college.<br />
Did you always want to work in the wildlife realm? I didn’t know what<br />
I wanted to do. I was the first in my family to go to college, so it was just<br />
exit zero 60 april-may
important to do that and finish, no matter what. I started in the business<br />
school. That lasted all of one year, and after financial accounting I decided<br />
it wasn’t for me… so I poked around trying out different things. I took an<br />
environmental history class that got me interested, and so I went down<br />
the rabbit hole of environmental economics, environmental ethics, biology,<br />
chemistry, ecology etc. But it was a field ornithology class that really<br />
blew my mind and opened my eyes to birds. That was 1995.<br />
How much do you and Inga encourage this in your children, or do<br />
you believe they should follow their own paths without any nudging?<br />
We try and get them outside as much as possible. I hate the “when I was<br />
your age” stories, but damn! When we were their age we were feral creatures!<br />
Come home, do your homework (or not), run outside. All we had to<br />
do was be home before dinner. They will follow their own paths, whether<br />
we like it or not. We’re just trying to give them the tools necessary to make<br />
the best decisions. That last sentence sounds really great. If only it were<br />
easy… or, like, even possible. My dad always said, “Parenting is the hardest<br />
job with the least experience, and no good manual.” Amen.<br />
What’s your mission at CMBO? Connecting people to nature, and<br />
stewarding the nature of today for the people of tomorrow. I had a real<br />
hard time the first time I read that. It seemed very people-focused and<br />
I felt it was lacking the intrinsic value of nature. But it quickly became<br />
clear how right-on it is. Birds don’t vote; only people do. It’s beautiful in<br />
its simplicity. If you can’t connect people to nature in Cape <strong>May</strong>, where<br />
can you?! And if you connect people to nature, you’ll be able to take the<br />
next step, and build community to steward the nature of today for the<br />
generations to come.<br />
Beginning in 1976, Pete Dunne began building what would become a<br />
very successful model of connecting people to nature. He made birding<br />
accessible, put Cape <strong>May</strong> on the global birding map, wrote wonderful stories<br />
about birding in Cape <strong>May</strong>, and started several long-term research<br />
projects that are the DNA of the organization today. When I came on<br />
five years ago I saw some great opportunities to elevate the long-term<br />
data we’ve been collecting. We took our 40-plus years of data on raptors,<br />
waterbirds and songbirds and built a proper database where we could<br />
collect new data and display it with the historic data online in real time.<br />
Now we have online visitors from around the world checking in to see<br />
what’s flying over Cape <strong>May</strong>, and talking about it all over the internet!<br />
Ultimately, I want CMBO to reach its full potential as a bird observatory:<br />
keeping our finger on the pulse of migration, training the conservation<br />
leaders of tomorrow, and connecting more people than ever to the<br />
wonders of nature. As Pete would say, we’re a tank of gas from 60 million<br />
people. If we can’t do it, who can?!<br />
What constitutes a birder? Do you even like the word? I love the<br />
word, but I’m also okay with not using it. I mean, I love to ride my bike,<br />
but I’m not a biker. I love to swim, but I’m not a swimmer. So I can see the<br />
reluctance of some folks who do enjoy birding to not be defined by it. I’m<br />
exit zero 61 april-may
fine being defined by it… but if you’re expecting<br />
a pocket vest and Tilley hat, you’re going to be<br />
disappointed.<br />
Do you feel lucky having a job that you<br />
presumably love — getting to indulge in your<br />
passions? On the worst days, it’s work; and on<br />
the best days it’s a dream. I get to work with<br />
fantastic people who all believe in the mission<br />
we are committed to. You don’t do this work to<br />
get rich, you do it because of a fire inside you. I<br />
made a decision a long time ago that I wouldn’t<br />
work my butt off for two weeks of vacation, but<br />
rather find something that I love where it feels<br />
like I’m on vacation at work.<br />
What are your daily/weekly rituals around<br />
here? I try and get out and take a walk at one of<br />
the many great birding locations in Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
several times a week. The Nature Conservancy’s<br />
South Cape <strong>May</strong> Meadows Preserve, Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Point State Park, Higbee Beach and the<br />
Rea Farm are my go-to birding spots. We often<br />
go with our friends and their kids for long walks<br />
into Davey’s Lake, where you can feel like you’re<br />
miles away from civilization when you’re only<br />
a 20-minute walk to the parking lot on Sunset<br />
Boulevard.<br />
My weekly ritual is going in to Sunset<br />
Liquors to see the wonderful people there…<br />
and while I’m there, scout out the newest double<br />
IPA or imperial stout. When I’m on top of it,<br />
I attend Mark Jacopec’s Island Man’s Yoga class<br />
at his house, which is followed by beer, because<br />
that’s apparently how you get men to do yoga<br />
(I’m not complaining).<br />
Favorite places to eat, drink, get coffee?<br />
There are so many wonderful places to eat and<br />
drink in Cape <strong>May</strong>! Obviously, I love Exit Zero<br />
Filling Station, now super-sized with a bar! The<br />
Kraken Wings are my jam, and all the curries<br />
are delicious. I love the burgers, especially that<br />
one that should not exist but does. The WTF?<br />
Burger… I forgot the name, but it has the lobster<br />
on it. [Editor’s Note: It’s the Cray Cray.] Yeah,<br />
that should be illegal, but until it is, I’ll be eating<br />
it. I LOVE El Pueblo for tacos. That dude is<br />
killing it over there [in North Cape <strong>May</strong>]. Anything<br />
Lucas Manteca touches…The Red Store,<br />
Quahogs, the Taco Shop. Beach Plum Farm for<br />
the breakfast-and-birding combo — the place is<br />
amazing and keeps getting better.<br />
What are your favorite places to visit in<br />
the US? I love going back to Miami, especially<br />
down to the Florida Keys. If I had to live somewhere<br />
else, it would probably be there. I love<br />
New Orleans for the music and culture, and the<br />
Gulf Coast for the birding, so NOLA for the<br />
Jazz and Heritage Festival is the perfect storm<br />
of music, food and birds — that’s the last weekend<br />
in <strong>April</strong> and the first weekend in <strong>May</strong>, which<br />
is also peak for trans-Gulf migration of birds<br />
coming up from the Yucatan. I love the desert<br />
southwest, Chiricahua Mountains of SE Arizona,<br />
the Bay Area of California, Alaska, and the Oregon<br />
coast. There are so many places out west<br />
that I haven’t visited yet, including the Grand<br />
Canyon! I’ve got a pretty long to-do list.<br />
Describe your perfect day in Cape <strong>May</strong>. It<br />
happens every fall. A cold front comes through,<br />
bringing moderate-to-strong NW winds. That<br />
night migration-ready birds from the eastern<br />
Great Lakes to eastern Canada rise up after<br />
sunset and head south, drifted east on the<br />
winds. Just after midnight I pop my head out<br />
and can hear the faint seeps and chips of thousands,<br />
or tens-of-thousands, of songbirds high<br />
overhead. I look at the radar and see the telltale<br />
signal of birds migrating overhead and vectoring<br />
to the coast. I sleep for a few hours, wake before<br />
sunrise, get dressed and head to Higbee Beach<br />
for the official Morning Flight Songbird Count.<br />
As the eastern sky warms, the pace of passage<br />
picks up and soon we’re engulfed in a stream of<br />
warblers, orioles, woodpeckers and cedar waxwings.<br />
Bobolinks high overhead give their telltale<br />
call even if they’re too high to see at first.<br />
Ruby-crowned Kinglets, little caffeinated birds<br />
that they are, flit and flick through the vegetaexit<br />
zero 62 april-may
tion on the dike and weave in and out between<br />
our legs as they too work north along the dike.<br />
A merlin, a small falcon, tears through the river<br />
of birds and picks off an unsuspecting American<br />
Redstart, one of our more commonly counted<br />
warblers. The harsh reality of migration: everyone<br />
has to eat. I bask in these waves of migrants<br />
for several hours and then head down to the<br />
fields of Higbee, walking the hedgerows and<br />
catching glimpses of bird after bird feeding<br />
voraciously as they move though the vegetation.<br />
This is Higbee magic. This is what birders think<br />
of when they think of Cape <strong>May</strong> in fall.<br />
Before heading to Cape <strong>May</strong> Point, I hit up<br />
West Side Market for a breakfast sandwich, or<br />
maybe Sunset Grille for one of theirs, or maybe<br />
Beach Plum Farm… and now I’ve got Exit Zero<br />
Filling Station! I take my breakfast to the Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Hawkwatch platform as the raptors begin<br />
to soar. Northwest winds bode well for the<br />
hawkwatch and it’s not long before I’m watching<br />
American Kestrels queue up along the dune<br />
line, catching dragonflies as they pass. Merlins,<br />
too, are on the hunt, for dragons or songbirds,<br />
and the Peregrine Falcon powers overhead,<br />
heading for the Florida Keys before crossing<br />
into the Caribbean or down to Central and<br />
South America. By midday, the sky is full of<br />
raptors, hawks, eagles and falcons, and the platform<br />
is a constant chorus of ooohs and aaaahhhs.<br />
The naturalists explain what’s going on to<br />
anyone who comes on to the platform, and the<br />
locals take their places among the benches and<br />
viewing areas, just as excited about the birds as<br />
they are seeing each other. If birding in Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> has a town square, it’s the Hawkwatch platform.<br />
As the day winds down, I’ll head to the TNC<br />
Meadows for an evening walk and a chance to<br />
see something interesting — a short-eared or<br />
barn owl? Or maybe a least bittern, or American<br />
bittern, or some other secretive marsh bird.<br />
Plus, sunset at the Meadows is exquisite in its<br />
own right.<br />
If it’s a perfect day, it’s a Thursday in fall,<br />
when birders take turns hosting potlucks<br />
around town. A Thursday night potluck after<br />
a massive migration day is a glorious thing —<br />
the house is abuzz with stories of the day, rosy<br />
cheeks from wind burn and several glasses<br />
of wine, and a bonding over birds, but probably<br />
just as much over people; a community of<br />
locals, visitors, people returning after years of<br />
being away, and a new generation of birders:<br />
the future.<br />
Subject change. What will you be doing on<br />
July 4 this year? I LOVE fireworks, so hopefully<br />
being somewhere with fireworks. Last year we<br />
had a potluck on the beach at The Cove. It was<br />
awesome. The two years before that we were<br />
in Panama… so not so many fireworks, but monkeys<br />
and quetzals and... just so much nature.<br />
If any of our readers have any interest in<br />
taking up birding, what’s the first thing they<br />
should do? Stop by CMBO’s Northwood Center<br />
at 701 East Lake Drive in Cape <strong>May</strong> Point.<br />
We will get your sorted out! We’re open seven<br />
days a week in spring, summer and fall. If you’re<br />
here in <strong>April</strong> or <strong>May</strong>, you can also stop by our<br />
Center for Research and Education in Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Court House, located very close to the Delaware<br />
Bay during the amazing spring migration<br />
of shorebirds that coincides with the spawning<br />
of horseshoe crabs. If you haven’t seen that, you<br />
need to put it on your bucket list! But we’ve got<br />
something for everyone year-round. We’ve even<br />
got stuff for your SOB — that’s Spouse of Birder.<br />
Do you think there is anything the city<br />
could be doing to further promote Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
as a birding/nature destination? Of course!<br />
And to be honest, we’ve been working with<br />
the city to do just that. There should be huge<br />
banners when you come into town, saying WEL-<br />
COME BIRDERS! And placemaking signs at all<br />
the major birding destinations. The city should<br />
be all over it — ecotourism is the fastest-growing<br />
tourism segment, and Cape <strong>May</strong> is in the top<br />
sites worldwide for birding, and in the top two<br />
for fall migration.<br />
There should<br />
“<br />
be huge<br />
banners when<br />
you come into<br />
town, saying<br />
WELCOME<br />
BIRDERS! The<br />
city should<br />
be all over it<br />
— ecotourism<br />
is the fastestgrowing<br />
tourism<br />
segment, and<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> is in<br />
the top sites<br />
worldwide for<br />
birding, and in<br />
the top two for<br />
fall migration.<br />
”<br />
V<br />
exit zero 63 april-may<br />
You took over from Pete Dunne, who was<br />
instrumental in establishing Cape <strong>May</strong> as a<br />
birding mecca. What have you learned from<br />
him? On day one, Pete gave me a cartoon of<br />
Sisyphus. I often refer to it — when the bureaucracy<br />
makes me feel like I’m pushing a rock<br />
uphill, I use it as a check and change course.<br />
Pete had been the director for more than 30 of<br />
the 40 years of CMBO when I came on. That’s<br />
a lot of institutional knowledge! Pete’s office<br />
was just down the hall, so when I would get a<br />
donation from a donor I could walk down and<br />
ask him, “What can you tell me about so and<br />
so,” and more often than not he could give me<br />
their whole history. This is after Pete’s stroke —<br />
he’s got one hand that doesn’t work, and partial<br />
paralysis in his face, and gets winded after a few<br />
hours of activity, but that man’s mind is sharp<br />
as a tack. Pete is old school, so we often have<br />
spirited discussions about technology, its place<br />
in birding versus being a distraction from birding.<br />
It was a wonderful experience watching him<br />
work back when I was a postdoc, and it’s been<br />
great having had five good years of working<br />
with him in the office. I look forward to seeing<br />
Pete in the field this fall, at the Hawkwatch.<br />
Finally, if you could be a bird, what species<br />
would you be? I don’t want to be a bird. But I<br />
would like to fly. <strong>May</strong>be I’d be a bat.<br />
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@ 33 Perry<br />
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victoriousincapemay.com
Drinking In History<br />
This past winter, it received a top-to-bottom renovation,<br />
featuring a magnificent new bar. But one thing that hasn’t changed<br />
about The Brown Room? Those walls could tell a LOT of stories.<br />
article jack wright<br />
photography jessica orlowicz<br />
Ease yourself into one of the comfy new chairs in The Brown Room,<br />
which nestles in the bosom of Cape <strong>May</strong>’s magnificent Congress Hall<br />
hotel, and, as you sip on your drink and take in the Gatsbyesque feel<br />
of the room, you might get the feeling that you’re steeping yourself in<br />
a little bit of history. Some rooms do that to you. In the case of The<br />
Brown Room, there’s a LOT of history within these four walls. If you’re making<br />
the acquaintance of this classy joint for the first time this summer, you’d be<br />
forgiven for not realizing it’s a brand-new space — even though it was gutted<br />
this winter and renovated from top to bottom, it feels like it’s been this way for<br />
years. That’s the beauty of good design.<br />
If you’ve been a regular here over the years, you will, however, notice a huge<br />
difference. First of all, the bar took a 90-degree turn and was moved against the<br />
wall overlooking the lawn, where it used to sit in the 1960s before the bar was<br />
tossed on to the lawn by firebrand (and teetotal) preacher the Reverend Carl<br />
McIntire, who bought Congress Hall in 1967. The bar was also greatly enlarged<br />
and completely rebuilt, featuring bar stools all the way around, which always<br />
produces the most convivial lounge vibes.<br />
The brown-and-white Schumacher flocked wallpaper has divided opinion in<br />
town — some think it delightful, while others think it’s way too busy. Either way,<br />
it’s definitely different and lends a charm to the old room.<br />
Four sitting presidents drank at this place (a couple of them much more
Above: Soldiers and airmen would frequent Congress Hall’s bar<br />
during World War Two — note that the bar was to the right of the<br />
doors that lead to the lobby. Top: The garish red-and-black design<br />
was a product of the 1960s — this is where the new bar is positioned<br />
following the winter renovation.<br />
Right: Four sitting US Presidents stayed at Congress Hall and<br />
imbibed at the bar (some more than others) — from left, Franklin<br />
Piarce, James Buchanan, Ulysses Grant and Benjamin Harrison.<br />
Opposite: Scenes from the all-new Brown Room. It IS still brown,<br />
but everything is new, from the flocked wallpaper to the hardwood<br />
flooring, the plush chairs and, of course, the repositioned, muchenlarged<br />
bar.<br />
exit zero 66 april-may
copiously than others). Then along came prohibition and, when<br />
it ended, Congress Hall became the first hotel in post-prohibition<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> to open a cocktail bar. As a result, Congress Hall<br />
became, not for the first or last time, the center of Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
nightlife. During World War II, locals rubbed shoulders at the<br />
bar with naval officers and troops stationed in town, listening to<br />
the sounds of Eddie Sheppard, an RCA and CBS recording artist<br />
who played requests on his Hammond organ.<br />
In the 1960s, the formerly conservative decor was given an<br />
update, decorated in red vinyl and named the Yankee Doodle<br />
Cocktail Lounge (“fabulously beautiful,” said local newspaper<br />
advertisements). It was by all accounts a rocking and occasionally<br />
raucous little joint, open until 2am. The entertainment was<br />
supplied by Kenny Shaffer, whose lyrics were the sauciest ever<br />
heard by an entertainer at Congress Hall. Often, people would end<br />
up dancing on his piano.<br />
That all ended in December of 1967, when Reverend McIntire<br />
bought the hotel. On his first day, McIntire summoned a group<br />
of helpers and had them dismantle the cocktail bar. It would<br />
be 35 years before another drink was poured at the hotel, when<br />
McIntire’s grandson, Curtis Bashaw, reopened the hotel and<br />
renamed this historic bar The Brown Room following a renovation<br />
that featured, well, a lot of brown paint, chairs and bar stools.<br />
So, today, whether you’re sipping a scotch (as President<br />
Ulysses Grant very much liked to do) or savoring a hearty glass of<br />
cabernet, you’ll be enjoying it in fine company and fine comfort,<br />
surrounded by some very ornate wallpaper...<br />
exit zero 67 april-may
When mating, the male Ceratioidei Anglerfish<br />
(that’s the little guy circled) digs its teeth into<br />
the much larger female’s belly until the bodies<br />
fuse permanently. They share a bloodstream. All<br />
his organs — except for the testes — dissolve.<br />
exit zero 68 april-may
The Sarcastic<br />
Fringehead,<br />
Hairy Frogfish<br />
and Other<br />
Really Weird<br />
Creatures of<br />
the Deep<br />
(That you likely, hopefully,<br />
won’t bump into when you’re<br />
swimming at the Cove.)<br />
article diane stopyra<br />
exit zero 69 april-may
When you live or vacation in Cape <strong>May</strong>, discussions<br />
about the ocean center around how beautiful it is. How<br />
clean. How clear. How dotted with white sailboats and<br />
surfing dolphins. We photograph the horizon at sunset,<br />
buy pastel renderings of the beach on ornaments and<br />
fridge magnets, and download wave-lapping sounds at<br />
bedtime.<br />
We’ve gotten so wrapped up in this idea of the sea as<br />
liquid zen, we’ve totally forgotten the other side of the<br />
story: The ocean is the freakiest place on earth.<br />
Is it pretty? Sure. Does gazing at it lower your blood<br />
pressure and calm your nerves? Yep, us too. And, yet,<br />
this pulsing blue abyss holds the weirdest, most alien<br />
creatures alive. Some are hideous. Some are adorable.<br />
Some will haunt your dreams. (Apologies for that in<br />
advance). But all serve to deepen our appreciation of<br />
mother ocean’s rhythmic majesty — in all her freaky glory.<br />
We’ve outlined 12 of our favorite, weirdest sea<br />
creatures — and what draws us to them.<br />
Happy(?) swimming!<br />
Unusual suspects:<br />
Above, the<br />
wonderfully<br />
named Sarcastic<br />
Fringehead;<br />
right, the Asian<br />
Sheepshead Wrasse;<br />
below, the Dumbo<br />
Octopus.<br />
Blobfish<br />
The Ugly Animal Preservation Society, an organization which raises<br />
the profile of “aesthetically challenged” creatures, crowned the<br />
blobfish — a boneless thing that barely moves — the World’s Ugliest<br />
Animal in 2013. We’re not sure the poor thing needs its profile raised.<br />
On Saturday Night Life, Kate McKinnon has played an unattractive<br />
mermaid who is 65 percent blobfish. And, in a Credit Karma<br />
commercial, a man distraught over his poor credit carries a blobfish<br />
support animal onto a plane. According to the National Oceanic<br />
and Atmospheric Association, the blobfish looks like “a big, blobby<br />
tadpole.” We think he looks more like a cute little peanut merely in<br />
need of a hug.<br />
Goblin Shark<br />
The creepy, freaky goblin shark has a mushy skeleton and a pinkish<br />
exit zero 70 april-may
hue because the outer layer of its skin is transparent, meaning what<br />
you’re actually seeing is blood pumping through its demonic body.<br />
(No, really, the shark was named for a red-faced, Japanese demon.)<br />
With its blade-like snout and protruding jaw that catapults several<br />
inches from its mouth due to elastic tendons, this guy is the stuff<br />
of nightmares. But no worries — while goblin sharks exist in every<br />
ocean, there’s been only 45 identified in the world, and most of those<br />
hang near Japan. So it’s not likely you’ll confront one while wading at<br />
the Cove. Where you will spot one? On the silver screen. The terrifying<br />
neomorph in 2013’s Alien: Covenant was inspired by this real-life<br />
monster.<br />
Dumbo Octopus<br />
How’d this guy get its name? Those ears are a dead giveaway. Found<br />
in every ocean, dumbo octopuses live between three and five years<br />
exit zero 71 april-may
and are hunted by sharks and killer whales in that time. They’re loners<br />
who spend most of their lives in crevices and under rocks on the<br />
ocean floor, coming out only to eat and mate. They reach depths of up<br />
to 12,000 feet and use their eight arms, equipped with harpoon-like<br />
barbs, for holding onto dinner — small crustaceans and worms. The<br />
males also deliver sperm into females via these arms, which is NSFD<br />
(not safe for Disney).<br />
Pelican Eel<br />
Nicknamed a “gulper,” this creature is not really an eel at all — it’s<br />
a scaleless fish named for a giant mouth that extends like that<br />
of a pelican to hold on to prey larger than itself. As far as fish go,<br />
this guy is a pretty poor swimmer. Instead, he relies on a pink or<br />
red, bioluminescent (aka glow-in-the-dark) tail that draws in<br />
mesmerized prey. Gulpers, which can be more than three feet long<br />
with a body that’s half tail, prefer to stay between 4,000 and 26,000<br />
feet deep, where sunlight cannot reach. They die after they mate.<br />
Ceratioidei Anglerfish<br />
The beady-eyed anglerfish, which can grow to 110 pounds, is a scarylooking<br />
beast. But the most horrifying thing is the way it mates. To<br />
get it on, males dig their teeth into a female’s belly until the bodies<br />
fuse permanently. They share a bloodstream, and all his organs —<br />
except for the testes — dissolve. Oh, and females have a natural,<br />
fleshy fishing rod that sticks out from the head and glows in the dark<br />
to attract prey. Try not to freak out — these guys prefer water up to a<br />
mile deep.<br />
The poor little Blobfish and, right, the Red-lipped Batfish, who looks<br />
mighty angry that someone smeared lipstick on him.<br />
Water Bear<br />
This nearly microscopic, eight-legged champ is ridiculously resilient.<br />
A healthy specimen will live only a few months, but water bears under<br />
duress will repeatedly defy death. After being dried out for 10 years,<br />
they come back to life. In fact, there’s not much they can’t survive.<br />
Radiation? No problem. Extreme temperatures ranging from -458<br />
to 304-degrees fahrenheit? Fine. Starvation? Ha. Interstellar travel?<br />
Child’s play. No kidding — scientists sent water bears into orbit for 10<br />
days in 2007, and 68 percent of them came back unscathed, becoming<br />
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exit zero 72 april-may
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exit zero 73 april-may
the first animals to survive the vacuum of space. Researchers insist<br />
that if an asteroid were to wipe out the planet, chubby little water<br />
bears would still be kicking. Go figure.<br />
Red-lipped Batfish<br />
You won’t run into the red-lipped batfish in Cape <strong>May</strong> — he prefers to<br />
hang around the Galapagos — but we had to include him because, well,<br />
look at those lips! The brighter the pout, it’s believed, the easier time<br />
this fish has attracting a mate. Animals… they’re just like us. These<br />
guys also come equipped with perfume… they secrete a pleasantsmelling<br />
fluid to attract prey. The creature’s scientific name is Darwini,<br />
after Charles Darwin, since the biologist came up with his theory of<br />
evolution in this guy’s stomping grounds. Or, we should say, walking<br />
grounds. The red-lipped batfish is a bottom dweller who prefers<br />
strolling to swimming, using his pelvic fins as feet.<br />
Black Swallower<br />
Discovery.com calls this guy a “nightmarish binge eater,” and for<br />
good reason. He’s less than 10 inches long, but able to swallow<br />
creatures twice his length and 10 times his mass — whole and in a<br />
single bite, hence the giant, expanding stomach that hangs below<br />
his body. Black swallowers have never been caught on camera live —<br />
the only way we’ve gotten a look at them is because they sometimes<br />
swallow something so massive (say, a three-foot mackerel) that it<br />
starts decomposing in the stomach before the fish can fully digest it.<br />
Gasses from this decomposition process fill the swallower up like a<br />
balloon until he dies and floats to the surface.<br />
The Water Bear looks cuddly but this little sucker is indestructible.<br />
Right, the Hairy Frogfish can change its color and texture.<br />
Hairy Frogfish<br />
Surprise! The cantaloupe-sized hairy frogfish isn’t hairy, just covered<br />
in spiny bits of skin that make it look like a bottom-dwelling toupee<br />
— cute! It also doesn’t swim much, but uses fins to crawl along the<br />
seafloor. When a hairy frogfish spots its prey (a fish or crab up to twice<br />
its size), it dangles a long, fleshy spine in front of its own mouth. This<br />
built-in fishing rod mimics the movements of a sea worm to draw<br />
the target in. The frogfish’s mouth then extends the length of his<br />
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exit zero 74 april-may
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exit zero 75 april-may
This “nightmarish binge eater” is less than 10 inches long, but is able<br />
to swallow whole creatures twice his length and 10 times his mass.<br />
Clockwise from top left: the nightmarish trio of Pelican Eel, Goblin Shark and Black Swallower, and then the adorable little Piglet Squid.<br />
body to snap the creature up in six milliseconds so other fish don’t<br />
see — blink and you’ll miss it. Females have been known to gobble<br />
up potential mates who get in their way. To make this hunting easier,<br />
the hairy frogfish is able to change his color and even texture (think<br />
smooth like seaweed or grainy like sand) to match his surroundings.<br />
Asian Sheepshead Wrasse<br />
This bulbous-headed creature, which inhabits rocky reef areas in the<br />
western Pacific and can grow to 32 pounds, switches from female to<br />
male, most likely so that it can maximize reproductive opportunities.<br />
This change was captured on film, and it’s commonly regarded as one<br />
of the strangest sequences in the Netflix Blue Planet series. There is<br />
evidence to suggest this guy is a social fish — a diver in Japan has<br />
been calling one particular wrasse, whom he nursed back to health,<br />
to his side for 25 years using an underwater bell.<br />
Sarcastic Fringehead<br />
This spectacularly monikered maverick lives in little rocky crevices,<br />
shells or tubes dug out by sea snails and other creatures. Females<br />
deposit their eggs in the tube of a male, who’s then tasked with<br />
protecting them, so males are very territorial about their space. When<br />
they feel challenged by another male, they open their large, colorful<br />
mouths — an action that has been compared to the alien in Predator —<br />
to intimidate each other. Then they’ll charge at one another and begin<br />
what’s called a “kissy battle” — they press their mouths together until<br />
they determine who’s bigger. (They have poor eyesight, so it’s tough<br />
to figure this out on sight alone.) The smaller one usually leaves. But,<br />
if not, these guys aren’t afraid to attack other sarcastic fringeheads,<br />
other marine animals or the fingers of nosy divers, with their needlelike<br />
teeth. And the name? It refers to the original definition of the<br />
word sarcastic, derived from the Greek word sarkazo — “to tear flesh.”<br />
Piglet Squid<br />
This cartoonesque little guy, the size of an avocado, lives in all oceans,<br />
has eight arms and, well, looks like a baby pig. He has a little snout for<br />
breathing and filling himself with water for propulsion purposes. He<br />
also has two tentacles, which together look like a mop of hair when he<br />
swims, which he does upside down. He has light-producing organs<br />
behind his eyes which allow him to navigate through black water<br />
more than 320 feet below the surface. And, perhaps most importantly,<br />
the creature’s cuteness makes it an unofficial ambassador for the<br />
cephalopods, proving that they’re not all of hideous countenances.<br />
exit zero 76 april-may
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exit zero 77 april-may
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Point: A<br />
Love Story<br />
Lauren Eadline’s great-grandfather Percy never<br />
knew what he was starting when he purchased<br />
a little cottage at the Point for $50 in 1960...
Percy and Viola Eadline with their<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Point pals around 1940.
Lauren Eadline may live in upstate New York, but her heart will always<br />
be in Cape <strong>May</strong> Point. Her great-grandfather built a house on a $50<br />
lot in the Point in 1960, and the storied property has been a source<br />
of joy for every generation of Eadline since. Now, Lauren’s last living<br />
grandmother has advanced Alzheimer’s, and the house had to be sold,<br />
which brought a complicated mix of emotions. There’s grief, to be sure,<br />
at the loss of such a beloved space. But there’s also appreciation.<br />
“Gratitude for all the years and all the memories is still the strongest<br />
emotion I have about all this,” Lauren wrote to us. “I want to share that<br />
gratitude with the Cape <strong>May</strong> community since everything about this<br />
place has shaped who I am today.”<br />
On her last visit to the house, Lauren penned a letter to her late<br />
great-grandfather, which explains some of the home’s remarkable<br />
history (spoiler: Norman Rockwell stayed here) and, in doing so, tells the<br />
story of the Eadline family.<br />
“I’m asking you to publish my letter for memory,” Lauren explained.<br />
“For the memories my grandmother has lost, and the ones I pray the<br />
rest of my family never does. To put in writing that there once was a<br />
little house in the Point that not only belonged to my family, but defined<br />
it… Something I can give to our Cape <strong>May</strong> neighbors to say thank you.”<br />
exit zero 80 april-may<br />
A letter to a great-grandfather...<br />
I know I’ve never met you. Or at least<br />
I don’t think I have. When I was a baby we<br />
might have crossed paths, but you don’t<br />
know the me that is me. You don’t know<br />
how the decisions you made in your life<br />
have affected my sense of love, of family,<br />
of self. They probably seemed insignificant<br />
to you, those decisions. But as I sit here in<br />
your house with the fifth generation of our<br />
family who has sat in it, I want you to know<br />
a few things.<br />
I know it probably didn’t seem like<br />
much, when you bought what would now<br />
be a half-million-dollar property in a little<br />
corner of a little corner of Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
called The Point. I know no one cared about<br />
it then. I know you moved to The Point in<br />
1960 after years of vacationing there, and I<br />
know it cost you 50 bucks to buy the property<br />
instead of 100 because you bought a<br />
half lot. Because who knew what The Point<br />
would become. And who knew what it<br />
would become to me and to us.<br />
You never really wanted my dad around.<br />
Or my grandparents. Or my aunts and<br />
uncles. They would rent a place in Wild-
wood about 15 minutes away and ride the<br />
rides on Hunt’s Pier back when it was safe<br />
to let your kids eat cotton candy by themselves.<br />
You liked your peace and quiet in The<br />
Point. You liked your peace and quiet when<br />
you were painting. My fiancé’s daughter is<br />
sleeping in bunk beds in the room that used<br />
to be your dark room. Did you know that?<br />
Did you know that those beds have meant<br />
more to our family than a thousand photos?<br />
Did you mean for that? Did you mean for<br />
any of it?<br />
Norman Rockwell did dishes in this<br />
kitchen. He came in ’62 when the hurricane<br />
ravaged Cape <strong>May</strong> but the jetties held The<br />
Point. Sort of. Okay, not at all. But I like<br />
the story better that way. He came to take<br />
pictures. He came a few times in our family’s<br />
history. You were friends, he and you.<br />
And he left things with you. He left you<br />
sketches. He left you sketches and that was<br />
your fortune, the sketches and the house at<br />
The Point. When you left this world, you<br />
had two sons, and my grandfather fought<br />
to make sure that this house, that you never<br />
meant to be a beach house, stayed in Eadline<br />
hands. I hope the Rockwell drawings<br />
Opposite page: Author Lauren Eadline’s<br />
great-grandfather Percy Eadline with<br />
legendary illustrator Norman Rockwell on<br />
the beach at Cape <strong>May</strong> in 1962. Rockwell is<br />
famous for his Saturday Evening Post covers,<br />
one of which was supposed to include a<br />
portrat from Cape <strong>May</strong>. Percy, a talented<br />
photographer who owned a little cottage<br />
at Cape <strong>May</strong> Point, was selected to shoot<br />
the photos that would inspire Rockwell’s<br />
drawing. Sadly, the Cape <strong>May</strong> drawing<br />
never made it to the cover of the Post,<br />
but Percy and the artist kept up a warm<br />
correspondence, as these letters show.<br />
exit zero 81 april-may<br />
are happy, wherever they ended up. I don’t<br />
regret my grandfather’s decision to sell<br />
them for the house: had that not happened,<br />
I wouldn’t be sitting here now. I wouldn’t be<br />
sitting here while an eight-year-old sleeps<br />
in your dark room, still taking in everything<br />
she’s seen today. I remember that feeling.<br />
I know you don’t know what you’ve given<br />
us. I know there’s no way for you to understand<br />
that your little place by Lake Lilly,<br />
with the view of the lighthouse and a bike<br />
ride from the beach, has brought our family<br />
together for five generations. That children<br />
have been here. Husbands and ex-husbands.<br />
Best friends, nieces and nephews.<br />
Babies and grown-ups. Grandparents and<br />
hopeful stepmothers. This house created<br />
traditions. This house created bonds. This<br />
house has made memories, held hearts and<br />
mended grief. This house is our home.<br />
This house has stood through so much.<br />
Through the rescuing of the Victorians in<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> in the 1970s. Through the ’62<br />
Nor’easter and Hurricane Sandy. Through<br />
the development of The Point. Through<br />
fights over that leftover half acre. This little<br />
cottage... the one we laugh at for being the
The Cape <strong>May</strong> Point Eadline family album,<br />
clockwise from above: G-G Viola on the<br />
beach, 1970s; the family cottage in the Point<br />
after the devastating nor’easter in March,<br />
1962; the boys playing with Lauren’s great<br />
grandfather’s camera in the early 1960s;<br />
great-grandfather Percy and G-G Viola<br />
with Tim, Doug and Steve in 1964; author<br />
Lauren with mother Shirley on the beach<br />
at the Point in 1985; gran and her grandkids<br />
in 2016, with author Lauren in the center;<br />
Lauren’s uncle Doug buried on the beach in<br />
Wildwood, 1964.<br />
exit zero 82 april-may
more<br />
than<br />
just<br />
honey<br />
135 SUNSET BOULEVARD, WEST CAPE MAY<br />
609-425-6434 « capemayhoneyfarm.com
Take The Chill<br />
Challenge!<br />
Take an active role in demonstrating<br />
that you care about Cape <strong>May</strong> by making<br />
some energetic energy choices!<br />
• Buy locally and invest in and use your own reusable grocery bags<br />
• Invest in and use a reusable water bottle and coffee mug<br />
• Use cloth towels instead of paper<br />
• Conserve water in many ways – turn off completely when not in use<br />
like when cleaning your teeth<br />
• Cut your shower time and use cooler water<br />
• Rinse and Recycle all that you can<br />
• When you can, ride a bike or walk<br />
• Be respectful of our trees<br />
• Find local farmers markets and shop there – it’s fresh and fun<br />
• Carry litter from the beach and use containers provided<br />
• Dry towels and clothing on a clothes line when possible<br />
• STOP idling your car<br />
• Turn off lights when not in use/needed<br />
• Use LED light bulbs and unplug electronics when not in use<br />
• Grow your flower or vegetable garden with plants that attract bees<br />
and butterflies, and require less water<br />
• Tread lightly – explore local nature centers and trails<br />
• Build responsibly – Support Green Energy!<br />
ACT PERSONALLY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR THE<br />
CAPE MAY COMMUNITY WE ALL LOVE!<br />
Environmental Commission meets fourth Tuesday each month at<br />
11am in City Hall. All are welcome. Get involved! THANK YOU!<br />
“dump of The Point”... has so much courage. Has grown with love.<br />
Has the soul of our family in every speck of sand hidden in the corners<br />
of the outdoor shower. It has become us, and we are it.<br />
And so today, as I stand on the deck of the lighthouse, I look<br />
towards the future. The future is standing next to me. It’s her first<br />
time, and I show her how to spot our house from up here, a child’s<br />
rite of passage at this sacred place. She’s scared of being so high<br />
at<br />
first, but quickly finds her<br />
bravery. She counts the steps all the way down. I know the number,<br />
but I know hers will be different and she will get an even different<br />
one next time. It’s my first time, too. My first time handing down<br />
the traditions of my fathers to those who will carry the torch when<br />
I am gone. My first time explaining the concrete ship and the World<br />
War II tower. My first time finding Cape <strong>May</strong> Diamonds for excited<br />
eyes. My first time showing little hands how to put on their beach<br />
tag. It’s my first time, and I’m not ready for it to end.<br />
I know that the future of this place, of your place, is uncertain.<br />
I know that families age, that money is finite and that time is not<br />
endless. I know<br />
that every summer<br />
in your shadow is<br />
a blessing. I know<br />
it could be the last<br />
one soon. But even<br />
with that, I want to<br />
promise you something.<br />
I want you<br />
to know that the<br />
bricks, the wood,<br />
the mold and the<br />
mildew of this little<br />
temple are a part of<br />
us now. That they<br />
could disappear<br />
tomorrow and they<br />
would be alive in our<br />
hearts. That what<br />
Lauren Eadline and fiance Brad Corrigan<br />
you have given us<br />
has given this house immortality. And I promise to hand it down<br />
another day, or another lifetime. I promise nothing will be forgotten.<br />
I promise you that.<br />
There’s not much more to say, I think. And not much more time:<br />
the beach is next, with rollercoaster rides tonight. She can’t wait<br />
to try my father’s favorite ice cream and my brother’s favorite funnel<br />
cake. I can’t wait to show her the way my grandmother’s favorite<br />
Ferris wheel overlooks the miles and miles of Wildwood beach<br />
which has become such a part of our Eadline summers. We have<br />
things to do, you see, so I should go. The face of our family would be<br />
different. It wouldn’t be us. It wouldn’t be us without you and without<br />
this place. So I guess I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you<br />
for building our little empire in this little corner of the Jersey Shore.<br />
Thank you for passing it down. Thank you for giving us stories to<br />
tell. Thank you for standing next to me on that lighthouse, for guiding<br />
my hand to Lake Lilly when I pointed her home.<br />
Thank you, for Cape <strong>May</strong> Point.<br />
exit zero 84 april-may
a cape may moment<br />
Jerry Griffin celebrates his 70th birthday with family and friends at Carney’s on March 30. Aleksey Moryakov<br />
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exit zero 85 april-may
Life’s A<br />
Beach<br />
Down on<br />
the Farm<br />
It’s like farming life... without the labor.<br />
Five new cottages at Beach Plum Farm<br />
have added rustic chic to the scene.<br />
article diane stopyra<br />
photography rachel mcginn<br />
exit zero 86 april-may
Turns out the simple life can be pretty luxurious — snapshots from the five cottages at Beach Plum Farm in West Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
Picture falling asleep to a<br />
soundtrack of cicadas.<br />
Waking up to the sweet<br />
chipping of a blue-winged<br />
warbler. Spending a lazy<br />
afternoon picking sunwarmed<br />
tomatoes from a<br />
private vegetable garden before taking a<br />
refreshing dip in a saltwater pool, the leaves<br />
of a nearby willow rustling in the breeze.<br />
It may sound like the makings of a<br />
Pinterest vision board, but for guests of the<br />
new cottages at Beach Plum Farm in West<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>, these are the happenings of a<br />
typical summer’s day.<br />
In 2008, when Cape Resorts Group<br />
purchased this 62-acre stretch of land off<br />
of Stevens Street, managing partner Curtis<br />
Bashaw envisioned providing fresh, clean<br />
produce for his island restaurants — the<br />
Ebbitt Room, the Blue Pig Tavern and the<br />
Rusty Nail. He did not envision creating a<br />
public park, a place where friends and family<br />
would gather to reconnect with nature and<br />
one another. Yet — in addition to producing<br />
more than 100 crops that do, indeed, service<br />
area restaurants — that’s exactly what<br />
the farm has become: a beautifully rustic<br />
escape.<br />
People come here — by foot and by<br />
beach cruiser — to meander woodland<br />
marsh trails that wrap around a duck pond<br />
lined with sweetgum trees. They walk<br />
through herb beds that smell of rosemary<br />
and thyme on their way to vibrant flower<br />
gardens and a free-range chicken coop.<br />
They explore the shaded path that leads to<br />
an apiary and a sunny pen of delightfully<br />
muddy, Berkshire pigs. And, when they’ve<br />
worked up an appetite, these visitors enjoy<br />
lemon verbena-infused tea and farm-fresh<br />
meals at an outdoor picnic table or inside<br />
an Amish-built, post-and-beam barn<br />
constructed in 2015 from Pennsylvania<br />
hemlock, pine and cypress — there’s now a<br />
kitchen and produce market on-site.<br />
“There was such a positive response<br />
when we built this barn,” said Will Riccio,<br />
who spent a year designing the farm’s<br />
homespun-chic cottages. He also owns<br />
the iconic Louisa’s Café on Jackson Street,<br />
which sources its ingredients from Beach<br />
Plum. “Visitors would often say, “Oh, I’d<br />
like to sleep here!” Or they’d comment on<br />
how much they’d like their own homes to<br />
have the rustic, warm feel of this place. I<br />
think a lot of people, especially from the city<br />
or suburbs, harbor a farmhouse fantasy.”<br />
Last summer, this fantasy became a<br />
bit more accessible when the farm began<br />
offering overnight stays in five charming<br />
cottages that form their own picturesque<br />
compound on the grounds. Two are new<br />
buildings with a barn vibe. These came<br />
from the same Lancaster-based Amish<br />
family responsible for the farm’s original<br />
barn, and they were constructed using the<br />
same mortise and tenon joinery technique<br />
— in other words, no nails were used in<br />
their framing, only pegs.<br />
The remaining cottages are impeccably<br />
restored, historic homes that recall a<br />
simpler time on the island. All are available<br />
to rent individually or as a group for<br />
wedding parties and family reunions.<br />
“We had one couple who’d been staying<br />
at Congress Hall for 14 years,” Riccio told<br />
us. “They loved being beachfront, so they<br />
figured they’d give this a try but that it<br />
probably wouldn’t be a fit. Now they say<br />
they can’t imagine staying anywhere else.”
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The cottages, which sleep between eight<br />
and 12, are painted in colors with names<br />
like colony green and whispering spring,<br />
and they are furnished with a mix of modern<br />
pieces and antiques.<br />
Each comes equipped with an outdoor<br />
shower, washer and dryer, screened-in<br />
porch, barbeque grill, firepit and a golf<br />
cart for heading into town, plus access<br />
to a 40-foot pool and vegetable garden.<br />
Retro-styled Smeg (great product, awful<br />
name) refrigerators and custom cabinetry<br />
in each kitchen are stocked with either<br />
farm-fresh ingredients or prepared meals,<br />
depending on your preference. Scratchmade<br />
doughnuts and fresh eggs can also be<br />
delivered each morning. Or you can learn to<br />
harvest these eggs yourself while sporting a<br />
pair of Hunter boots, provided at check in.<br />
The ultimate goal? Experiencing what<br />
Riccio calls the “magic” of connecting with<br />
nature. Sure, the polished concrete floors<br />
of these cottages may be heated and, okay,<br />
you’re not exactly roughing it when you’re<br />
lounging on a rolled-arm Anthropologie<br />
sofa in the Winona Cottage, an arts-andcrafts<br />
style home that was a popular mailorder<br />
house available through the Sears<br />
catalogue in the 20s and 30s. But these<br />
luxuries don’t distract from the beautiful<br />
sight of morning dew on the vibrant leaves of<br />
a swamp maple tree, or from the happiness<br />
of a perfectly roasted marshmallow eaten<br />
under a star-studded sky. Then there’s the<br />
rare pleasure of quality time spent with<br />
loved ones. (There are TVs in each cottage,<br />
but Riccio says board games on a sundappled<br />
porch have been more appealing to<br />
guests.)<br />
Perhaps the biggest draw of the cottages<br />
is their seamless melding of old and<br />
contemporary. The Hill Barn, for instance,<br />
may be a new building, but it’s outfitted<br />
with windows salvaged from the historic<br />
Rutherford farmhouse. Recently torn down,<br />
this was the circa 1782 headquarters of a<br />
dairy farm that used to exist on Seagrove<br />
Avenue. Childhood drawings done by late<br />
owner David Rutherford are framed and<br />
hanging in another of the farm bungalows,<br />
the Plum Cottage, which is a beautifully<br />
restored, 1890s carriage house with its<br />
original beams and beadboard in tact.<br />
Other windows and doors throughout<br />
the five homes are from old iterations of<br />
Congress Hall. One door came from Riccio’s<br />
childhood home.<br />
“Part of what we’ve done here is give<br />
these pieces life for another 100 years,” he<br />
said. “This project is two-fold. It’s about<br />
what we can offer our guests but also about<br />
what we can offer these old buildings.”<br />
Take the Whalers Cottage. Built in 1760,<br />
this would have been the original farmhouse<br />
on Stevens Street. Built by a whaler as a<br />
gift to his daughter on her wedding day, it<br />
features all of its original beams, an original<br />
fireplace and a special playroom loft. Riccio<br />
has restored the floors, found playful,<br />
vintage garden furniture for the sunroom,<br />
and given new life to some antique pieces<br />
with whimsical coverings from LA-based<br />
designer Peter Dunham.<br />
Of course, this is all a bit technical for<br />
what may, for a lot of people, turn out to be<br />
just a different, fun, aesthetically-pleasing<br />
way to vacation.<br />
“Really,” Riccio said, “what it all<br />
amounts to is a comfortable, cozy, warm<br />
setting. At the end of the day, it’s all about<br />
the experience.”<br />
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exit zero 90 april-may
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WHO’S<br />
RUNNING<br />
CAPE MAY?<br />
Sure, it’s a place you come to relax and chill.<br />
But... there are a LOT of ways to stay active around<br />
these parts. Get ready to rumble and run.<br />
article bill barlow<br />
photography aleksey moryakov<br />
exit zero 92 april-may
exit zero 93 april-may
Escape the Cape, on June 2 this year, has become<br />
a juggernaut and sells out quickly. Clearly, there’s<br />
a big market for masochism around here (see<br />
previous page for the ferry leap).<br />
The winter gnomes have been at it<br />
again, shrinking all the pants in<br />
my closet. Treadmills make me<br />
feel like a caged hamster. With<br />
the warmer weather rolling in,<br />
it’s time to dig out the sneakers and hit the<br />
road. I checked in with Harry Back — who,<br />
along with Michael Mader, has launched the<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Running Company on the beachfront<br />
— looking for motivation and some<br />
direction.<br />
For someone trying to get in shape, or<br />
back in shape, “the first step should be to ask<br />
questions,” he says. This may not be surprising<br />
advice from someone whose business is<br />
training runners, but Harry says even those<br />
who do not plan to hire a trainer should talk<br />
to someone knowledgeable about running.<br />
Static training plans from Runner’s World or<br />
other sources can be a starting point, but it’s<br />
important to adjust your training for how<br />
your body is reacting.<br />
“The biggest mistake I see is people tend<br />
to do too much, too fast,” Harry says, adding<br />
that it’s important to do your research<br />
and listen to your body. Most injuries occur<br />
when someone tries to train too much.<br />
That’s not permission to spend this spring<br />
working through your 300-title Netflix<br />
queue. It’s a matter of giving your muscles<br />
time to heal.<br />
“The main thing is recovery. Your body<br />
gets more fit in recovery,” Harry says. Bad<br />
stress can do real harm to our health and<br />
outlook, but good stress helps us grow,<br />
pushing us to do better in our careers, our<br />
lives and our training. Push your body, then<br />
allow it to recover before asking more of it.<br />
Then repeat.<br />
Harry has run his entire life but didn’t<br />
race until much later. He grew up in Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong>. As a kid he was a competitive surfer,<br />
with little time for or interest in other sports.<br />
He came to competitive running as an adult,<br />
while his business partner didn’t start running<br />
seriously until he was in his 40s. Now,<br />
through Cape <strong>May</strong> Running Company, they<br />
organize local races, provide endurance<br />
training and offer all the running-related<br />
gear you could need in their brick-andmortar<br />
store.<br />
One of their main refrains? There is no<br />
single path to fitness. Some people should<br />
only run a few days a week, while others can<br />
exit zero 94 april-may<br />
put down some miles five or six days a week.<br />
“It’s all individual,” Harry says. “There’s<br />
no set formula.”<br />
For some, competition is key to motivation.<br />
These days, there are plenty of events<br />
available — no, really... it’s pretty much<br />
every weekend and two times a weekend if<br />
you really wanted.<br />
Hoping to join Cape <strong>May</strong>’s running<br />
community? Or perhaps you’re a seasoned<br />
athlete looking for your next fix. Here’s a<br />
guide to some of the best runs, swims and<br />
triathlons in the area this year. See you out<br />
there!<br />
THE GREAT CAPE MAY FOOTRACE<br />
Saturday, <strong>May</strong> 11<br />
5k, 10k<br />
Fitness requirement: Weekend Warrior,<br />
Regular folks willing to feel sore on Monday<br />
This venerable Cape <strong>May</strong> tradition seems<br />
like a good place to start. Almost anybody<br />
can tackle the 5k portion.<br />
The race has taken place for 40 years, but<br />
it had begun to dwindle, with 86 runners<br />
in 2016. The Cape <strong>May</strong> Running Company<br />
recently took over, and they expect hundreds
of runners this year.<br />
“Growing up, it was a premier event,”<br />
Harry says. “It was a big deal. It just kind of<br />
fell by the wayside.”<br />
Recruitment’s been aided by an offer of<br />
cash awards for the 10k portion.<br />
OCEAN DRIVE MARATHON<br />
Usually <strong>April</strong>, but not this year<br />
Fitness requirement: Come on, I mean, it’s a<br />
marathon<br />
After 20 years, the OD is Cape <strong>May</strong> County’s<br />
granddaddy of distance runs. This year,<br />
work on the Townsend Inlet Bridge will<br />
mean a hiatus for the marathon. For years,<br />
the race started in Cape <strong>May</strong> and ran up the<br />
coast to Sea Isle City, which often meant a<br />
26.2-mile slog into those wonderful, drizzly<br />
northeast winds of spring. Eventually, the<br />
marathon became a there-and-back race,<br />
starting and ending in Sea Isle City. Harry<br />
suggested they just needed to turn the race<br />
around, so that same wind would power<br />
runners into Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
“All they had to do was switch the direction,”<br />
he said.<br />
RUNWAY 5K<br />
Saturday, <strong>May</strong> 18<br />
5k, 10k and mile fun run<br />
Fitness requirement: Seth Rogan, but, like, the<br />
Green Hornet Seth Rogan<br />
This one takes place on the runway at the<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> County Airport, 500 Forrestal<br />
Road in Lower Township, ending up at the<br />
historic Hanger 1 home of the Naval Air Station<br />
Wildwood. Proceeds benefit the restoration<br />
of the hanger. Post-race beers, bagels<br />
and beverages will be available. Those in the<br />
10k run have to maintain at least a 12-minute<br />
mile so they can reopen the runway to<br />
planes on time. There’s a page on usnasw.<br />
org with more race details.<br />
CLAIRE BRODESSER MEMORIAL 5K<br />
Sunday, <strong>May</strong> 26<br />
Fitness requirement: Little chocolate<br />
doughnuts on the training table<br />
The annual event at the Beachcomber<br />
Camping Resort raises money for Cape<br />
Regional Medical Center in memory of one<br />
of the founders of the campground. There’s<br />
an option for a mile walk with fewer than 50<br />
runners and walkers participating last year.<br />
ESCAPE THE CAPE TRIATHLON<br />
Sunday, June 2<br />
Sprint and Olympic levels. Starts with a jump<br />
from the ferry<br />
Fitness requirement: Good enough shape to<br />
wear Lycra without concern<br />
The jump off the back of the Cape <strong>May</strong>-<br />
Lewes ferry makes for an exhilarating start,<br />
according to Meghan Miller, who participated<br />
in the Escape the Cape Triathlon last<br />
year. “Your heart is pounding before you<br />
even reach the water,” she says. That’s the<br />
idea, according to Steve DelMonte, event<br />
organizer.<br />
When he came up with the idea for a<br />
triathlon on the lower Cape, Steve was set<br />
to speak to the Delaware River and Bay<br />
Authority about using the ferry terminal but<br />
didn’t consider using the ferry itself. But his<br />
wife told him the original race plan didn’t<br />
sound that much fun.<br />
“She was like: ‘Why don’t you ask the<br />
ferry if you can start with a jump from the<br />
boat?’ That changed the course of our lives,”<br />
he says. “That race sold out in 36 hours and<br />
we’ve sold out every year since.”<br />
When he pitched the idea to the DRBA,<br />
Steve didn’t know how they’d react. But he<br />
was told to make it happen.<br />
This year’s event is already sold out but<br />
there is a waiting list. Participants load onto<br />
Starting at Convention Hall, the Great<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Footrace spans 5k and 10k and<br />
will be on <strong>May</strong> 11 this year.<br />
exit zero 95 april-may
Join the hardy folks from the US Coast<br />
Guard Training Center in Cape <strong>May</strong> (left)<br />
for the Runway 5k (above), which is held<br />
at Cape <strong>May</strong> Airport on <strong>May</strong> 18 this year.<br />
Opposite page: The Cape <strong>May</strong> Point 5 Mile<br />
on June 15 attracts all ages; while Run the<br />
Vineyards Sangria Scurry on June 22 is a<br />
fun way to lose those calories (then replace<br />
them with a nice glass of red or white).<br />
the ferry and get set to swim to their bikes<br />
waiting on the shore, followed by a run.<br />
Options include the Olympic Triathlon,<br />
which is a mile swim, 23-mile bike through<br />
the vineyards and country roads near Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> and a five-mile run. Then there’s a<br />
Sprint Tri, which is a .35 mile swim, 12<br />
miles on the bike and a 5k run. There is also<br />
a three-mile open water swim and a kid’s<br />
race, with a 50-meter swim, a mile on the<br />
bike and a half-mile run.<br />
People of all shapes and sizes participate,<br />
ages 12 to 78.<br />
“There’s an energy when you’re on the<br />
boat that cannot be replicated anywhere,”<br />
Steve says.<br />
Through his DelMo Sports organization,<br />
he also runs the MudHen Brewing Co<br />
Half Marathon in Wildwood in <strong>April</strong>, the<br />
Atlantic City Triathlon in August and the<br />
Ironman Atlantic City in September.<br />
CAPE MAY POINT 5 MILE<br />
Saturday, June 15<br />
Two mile run, five mile run<br />
Fitness requirement: Community spirit<br />
should be plenty<br />
Starting in 1979 as a way to support the<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Point Volunteer Fire Company,<br />
this event draws hundreds of runners and<br />
spectators for a course that circles the<br />
entire tiny community. A two-mile run<br />
starts at 8:15am on Yale Avenue, while the<br />
five-mile run covers the same course starting<br />
at 9am, but it goes around a second<br />
time, adding a loop around Lake Lily.<br />
RUN THE VINEYARDS SANGRIA<br />
SCURRY 5K<br />
Saturday, June 22<br />
exit zero 96 april-may<br />
Fitness requirement: Must be motivated by<br />
cold sangria, so pretty wide open<br />
This 5k, put on by the Good Day for a Run<br />
organization, takes place in a scenic, happy<br />
place, through Hawk Haven Vineyard and<br />
Winery on Railroad Avenue in Rio Grande.<br />
It offers with live music and a glass of wine<br />
to finish up. The cost is $42 to participate.<br />
There’s also a September 22 5k at Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Winery.<br />
MURPH MILE<br />
Wednesday, August 7<br />
One-mile run<br />
Fitness requirement: Couch potato. Try to<br />
break a 30-minute mile<br />
“This is a 100 percent feelgood race,” Harry<br />
Back says. “Everybody can do a mile. We<br />
have firefighters run it in turnout gear.
Every kid gets a medal.”<br />
The race, which goes from Philadelphia<br />
Avenue to Grant Street along the beachfront,<br />
is in memory of Kevin Murphy, an Atlantic<br />
City firefighter and longtime member of the<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Beach Patrol. He was described as<br />
gregarious, positive and full of life.<br />
The nighttime run raises money for the<br />
Clete Cannone Scholarship Fund, helping<br />
current and former Cape <strong>May</strong> lifeguards.<br />
“It’s probably my favorite one of the<br />
year to do,” Harry says. “It’s not putting any<br />
money in my pocket but it will help someone<br />
get to college. It’s just a blast.”<br />
CAPE TO CAPE CHALLENGE<br />
Sunday, August 18<br />
Five-mile paddle in Cape <strong>May</strong> or 16-mile paddle<br />
across the Delaware Bay<br />
Fitness requirement: If you’re not the last child<br />
of Krypton, try to get bitten by a radioactive spider<br />
Kicking off in Lewes, Delaware and heading<br />
for Cape <strong>May</strong>, “It’s a challenging race,” says<br />
organizer Chad deSatnick. “It takes kind of<br />
a unique individual to train for this event,<br />
because there’s a psychological element to<br />
it .”<br />
Some strong paddlers report seeing the<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse and water tower in<br />
the distance, but as they paddle and paddle,<br />
they never seemed to get any closer.<br />
The race starts in Delaware and crosses<br />
the shipping lanes of the bay as you head<br />
to Cape <strong>May</strong>. The organizers won’t even let<br />
you attempt if they don’t believe you can<br />
make it across within the time limit, meaming<br />
their needs to be demonstrated ability<br />
in other races, in lifeguard competitions or<br />
elsewhere. The race committee will approve<br />
some participants on a case-by-case basis.<br />
exit zero 97 april-may<br />
One of the criteria is a willingness to listen<br />
to advice and not try to finish at any cost.<br />
After four-and-a-half hours, all riders are<br />
obliged to give up and board one of the support<br />
vessels<br />
“We can’t have someone out there for<br />
seven hours trying to make a personal<br />
record,” Chad said. Only 50 people can participate<br />
in the bucket-list crossing.<br />
This year, there’s a five-mile rec paddle<br />
close to home for the mere mortals who<br />
want to participate, starting in Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Point and heading around to Queen Street.<br />
Bruckner Chase, who runs Ocean Positive,<br />
is set to participate in the shorter race with<br />
a number of adaptive athletes this year.<br />
Chase’s group gets people with spinal cord<br />
injuries and other limitations paddling on<br />
the open water.<br />
The race raises money for the DeSatnick
The Hallowed Half Marathon, organized by the folks at Cape <strong>May</strong> Running Company, will happen October 26. Don’t be afraid!<br />
Foundation, which supports spinal cord<br />
injury survivors and their families, providing<br />
both financial help and emotional support.<br />
BEACH TO BREWERY 10K<br />
Saturday, September 21<br />
Fitness requirement: Beer fan with good cardio<br />
This is a new race in the works for Harry<br />
Back and the Cape <strong>May</strong> Running Company<br />
crew. He wasn’t ready to talk about it in<br />
much detail, but he said he expects the event<br />
will be open to a limited number of participants.<br />
The plan is to run from one of the<br />
beaches to the Cape <strong>May</strong> Brewing Company<br />
at the Cape <strong>May</strong> County Airport in Lower<br />
Township, which is where participants will<br />
enjoy an after-party. Think about it: Thirst<br />
quencher, carbohydrate blast and a mild<br />
analgesic in one tasty beverage? Beer could<br />
be the ultimate post-run choice.<br />
HALLOWEEN HALF MARATHON<br />
Saturday, October 26<br />
13.1 miles<br />
Fitness Requirement: Start training now and<br />
you can do it in costume<br />
This is another, much-anticipated event<br />
from the Cape <strong>May</strong> Running Company,<br />
starting and finishing at the Grand Hotel at<br />
Beach Avenue.<br />
There’s also a Fright Night 5k on Friday<br />
evening, October 25, and a half-marathon<br />
relay. The course takes you through each<br />
of the communities south of the Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Canal, into West Cape <strong>May</strong>, Lower Township<br />
and to Cape <strong>May</strong> Point before returning<br />
to the start.<br />
All runners receive a long-sleeve race<br />
shirt and a pint glass, and all finishers<br />
receive a medal.<br />
The event has proven hugely popular.<br />
Last year, Cape <strong>May</strong> Running Company<br />
doubled the available slots to 1,300 people,<br />
and sold out. They expect to sell out again.<br />
That’s it, folks. Your guide to some of the<br />
orgnized, competitive fitness opportunities<br />
on the Cape.<br />
We’d be remiss not to mention that we’ve<br />
been a little tonge-in-cheek in our writeup<br />
here. Most of the organizers we spoke with<br />
exit zero 98 april-may<br />
were reluctant to suggest a minimum fitness<br />
level. Most of the races welcome a wide<br />
variety of participants.<br />
“It all depends on what your goal is going<br />
in,” Harry says. Some runners can finish the<br />
Boston Marathon in the top ten, but may<br />
want to have a fun, breezy experience some<br />
other race.<br />
“It’s all in your perspective,” Harry adds.<br />
“No one race is necessarily harder than<br />
another. I want them all to be fun. Of course,<br />
there’s some competition.”<br />
For most participants, the main competition<br />
is only with themselves, with what<br />
they have done before and what they want to<br />
do in the future.<br />
“It’s all about personal power. It’s about<br />
putting in the work,” Steve says. Personally,<br />
he thrives on the competition, and he loves<br />
the training.<br />
“It’s therapy to me, to be perfectly honest.<br />
It’s all about people wanting to be better,<br />
man. I feel like that’s so intoxicating.”<br />
Costs for many of the races vary depending<br />
on when you sign up and other factors.<br />
Contact race organizers for more details.
at Congress Hall<br />
SIMPLE PLEASURES FROM THE SEA<br />
seaspacapemay.com<br />
Call (609) 884-6543 to schedule an appointment<br />
exit zero 99 april-may
Activities
GO PLAY! Investing countless<br />
quarters and countless hours while<br />
playing skee ball and winning... a<br />
plastic pen? Priceless. The arcade<br />
is a rite of passage.
GO FLY! Morey’s Piers in the<br />
Wildwoods were voted the top<br />
seaside amusement park in the<br />
world. There are more than 100<br />
rides, from gentle to G-force.<br />
Family Activities<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> offers a kaleidoscopic variety<br />
of activities that you can enjoy with the<br />
family. Here is a big list of ideas to get you<br />
started...<br />
To the Boardwalk!<br />
Morey’s Piers have been providing fun and<br />
games to families on the Wildwood boardwalk<br />
for decades. There’s a reason they were<br />
voted Best Seaside Park in the World! (Yes,<br />
the world.) Dare to take on some epic roller<br />
coasters like the Sea Serpent, scare yourself<br />
silly with the Ghost Ship attraction, or check<br />
out the revival of the KONG ride 35 years later<br />
as you soar 60 feet in the air circling the legendary<br />
giant gorilla. From the Ferris wheel<br />
to delicious curly fries you won’t leave disappointed.<br />
Also for some cool activities on a<br />
hot summer day visit their water parks Raging<br />
Waters or Ocean Oasis. moreyspiers.com<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>-Lewes Ferry<br />
Take a trip over to Lewes, Delaware, a small,<br />
quaint seaside town, then make sure you<br />
check out bustling Rehoboth Beach, the Fenwick<br />
Island Lighthouse or Cape Henlopen<br />
State Park. The CMLF offers special events<br />
and boat rides, including musical boat cruises<br />
like Rock the Boat and Tropical Tuesday<br />
cruises (reservations required). You can also<br />
take advantage of the tax-free shopping at<br />
the outlets. Or just enjoy the quiet and vastness<br />
of the bay on the deck of the ferry as you<br />
watch for dolphins and whales. The Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Terminal has free mini-golf and waterfront<br />
dining at On the Rocks with live music every<br />
night. Go for a family outing or enjoy drinks<br />
on the waterfront. capemaylewesferry.com<br />
Historic Cold Spring Village<br />
Ever wonder what it was like to live in Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> 200 years ago? The answer can be found<br />
at this open-air living history museum, a seven-minute<br />
drive from town. Through interactive<br />
upcoming events like Hands-On History,<br />
Ghost Investigations, and Civil War, Time<br />
Travel and Seafarer’s (pirates!) Weekends<br />
you can experience different time periods and<br />
have a great time. The many authentically<br />
restored homes amid idyllic shaded areas<br />
make it hard not to feel like Abe Lincoln’s in<br />
office… and it’s even easier when the Civil<br />
War re-enactment rolls into town. hcsv.org<br />
exit zero 102 april-may<br />
Whale and Dolphin Watching<br />
Dolphins are fairly common in the waters off<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>, but it’s still a joy to see them. Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Whale Watch and Research Center offers<br />
you the chance to see them up close. You<br />
might even see some whales. Tours take off at<br />
Utsch’s Marina on Route 109 (previously on<br />
Wilson Drive). There are also Teen Cruises,<br />
Groove Cruises and wildlife tours, to get a<br />
closer look at the beautiful birds and marine<br />
life of Cape <strong>May</strong>. For directions or more information,<br />
call 888-531-0055 or visit them on<br />
the web at capemaywhalewatch.com. Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Whale Watcher offers a a Sunset Cruise,<br />
a Grand Lighthouse Cruise and weekend specials.<br />
Located at the Miss Chris Marina on<br />
Wilson Drive. Contact at 609-884-5445 capemaywhalewatcher.com<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Family Treasure Hunt<br />
Discover the fun of exploring Cape <strong>May</strong> and<br />
uncovering its architectural elements from a<br />
kid’s perspective. Packet includes a clue sheet<br />
and map that will take you on a self-guided<br />
discovery tour. Packets for the entire family<br />
are available for a donation to MAC. capemaymac.org
V<br />
VO<br />
A N D T H E M A D B A T T E R P R E S E N T<br />
OPENING PARTY<br />
SUNDAY MAY 19, <strong>2019</strong> 3-5<br />
DISRUPTION<br />
BY LOCAL ARTISTS<br />
EXHIBITION MAY 9 - JUNE 6<br />
19 JACKSON ST. CAPE MAY<br />
AVOUNLIMITED.COM<br />
RACE ON THE RUNWAY AT<br />
THE CAPE MAY AIRPORT!<br />
Saturday, <strong>May</strong> 18, <strong>2019</strong><br />
Race Begins at 9am Sharp<br />
Enjoy music, a FREE Craft Beer, bagels,<br />
water, fruits and refreshments post-race!<br />
Electronic timing & officiating by DelMoPRO.<br />
1 Mile Family Fun Walkers are Welcome!<br />
Prizes for the winners!<br />
Aviation Museum<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> airport<br />
Sign up on our website.... usnasw.org<br />
Refer 5 racers and your race is FREE!<br />
OPEN YEAR ROUND... RAIN OR SHINE<br />
500 Forrestal Rd, Cape <strong>May</strong> Airport, Rio Grande, NJ 08242 aviationmuseum@comcast.net • 609-886-8787<br />
exit zero 103 april-may
GO CLIMB! Cape <strong>May</strong>’s famous<br />
lighthouse has 199 steps to the<br />
top. It’s a hike, but the views of<br />
the ocean and tranquil Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Point make it worthwhile.<br />
Physick Estate Scavenger Hunt<br />
Go on a clues hunt and discover answers to<br />
questions as you search the grounds of the<br />
1879 Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington<br />
Street. Purchase a packet for $5 that includes<br />
a clue sheet and ponder the answers as you<br />
explore the estate grounds as a family. Learn<br />
together about Cape <strong>May</strong>’s only Victorian<br />
House Museum — one of the best examples of<br />
Victorian Stick Style architecture in the country.<br />
Available daily (only one packet is needed<br />
per family). www.capemaymac.org<br />
Antiquing<br />
For a different kind of treasure hunt, check<br />
out the amazing variety of antique shops<br />
that are available in Cape <strong>May</strong> — just don’t<br />
get disheartened when you see your favorite<br />
childhood toy selling for $100. Here are some<br />
treasure troves (all 609 area code): Antiques<br />
Emporia, 405 West Perry Street (898-<br />
3332), Bridgetowne Antiques, Broadway<br />
and Mechanic (884-8107), Out of The Past<br />
Antiques, 394 Myrtle Avenue, corner of Perry<br />
(884-3357), Cape <strong>May</strong> Antique Center, 1228<br />
Route 109 (898-4449). And although it’s not<br />
an actual antique store, do not miss West End<br />
Garage, on West Perry Street. This shopping<br />
mecca always has some great antiques from<br />
various vendors.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse, Oil House,<br />
Museum Shop<br />
The structure, built in 1859, has 199 steps<br />
leading to the watch gallery with a panoramic<br />
view of the Jersey Cape, Delaware Bay and<br />
the Atlantic Ocean. Admission to the Visitors’<br />
Orientation Center and the ground floor<br />
of the lighthouse is free. Open daily. Tower<br />
admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children<br />
3-12. capemaymac.org<br />
World War II Lookout Tower Museum<br />
Fire Control Tower No. 23 on Sunset Boulevard<br />
is New Jersey’s last freestanding World<br />
War II tower, part of the immense Harbor<br />
Defense of the Delaware system known as<br />
Fort Miles. After the award-winning restoration,<br />
visitors can now climb to the sixthfloor<br />
spotting gallery while reliving the<br />
homeland defense efforts during World War<br />
II. The ground floor of the tower is fully accessible.<br />
Open Saturdays and Sundays through<br />
<strong>April</strong> 20 and daily beginning <strong>April</strong> 26 from<br />
exit zero 104 april-may<br />
11am-3pm. Open on Armed Forces Day <strong>May</strong><br />
18 10am-3pm. Entrance fee is $6 for adults<br />
and $3 for children. capemaymac.org<br />
Bay Springs Alpaca Farm<br />
Near the end of beautiful New England Road,<br />
Warren and Barbara Nuessle live what they<br />
call the “alpaca lifestyle” — quiet and simple.<br />
Visit them between 10am and 4pm on Saturdays<br />
and Sundays ( you can also visit their<br />
section in West End Garage on weekdays)<br />
and see how alpaca fiber is spun into yarn, or<br />
shop at their store, which carries many alpaca<br />
related items (forget wool; go with an alpaca<br />
sweater this winter!) Don’t forget to greet the<br />
grazing alpacas. bayspringsalpacas.com<br />
Beachcombing at the Cove<br />
A naturalist from the Nature Center of Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> helps you explore the ocean, beach and<br />
dunes of the Cove on Wednesdays from 8:30-<br />
9:30am. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for<br />
children (3 and under free) and can be purchased<br />
at the Washington Street Mall Information<br />
Booth, or on the day of the tour at the<br />
Second Street Pavilion on the promenade.<br />
njaudobon.org
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GO WILD! A short drive from<br />
downtown Cape <strong>May</strong> is one of the<br />
most highly rated zoos in America.<br />
It’s also a beautiful country park.<br />
Don’t miss it.<br />
Aviation Museum<br />
The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation<br />
Museum, a few minutes north of town, has a<br />
wonderful collection of planes and helicopters<br />
all set in a building. At its peak during WWII,<br />
it accommodated 222 planes and 17,000<br />
takeoffs and landings per month. Young or<br />
old, the awe of flight will catch you like a net.<br />
The museum is open daily from 9am-5pm.<br />
Admission ($12 adult $10 children) will get<br />
you a free tickets to Cold Spring Village during<br />
the month of August! Also don’t miss the Airfest<br />
event on Labor Day weekend! usnasw.org<br />
Road Trip<br />
It seems silly to suggest leaving Cape <strong>May</strong>, but<br />
when the road calls, it’s hard not to answer.<br />
Grab some gas and try out route 147 (Ocean<br />
Drive). It runs through Wildwood Crest,<br />
Stone Harbor and the Doo Wop-fashioned<br />
hotels of Wildwood are a block away. It’s also<br />
teeming with good eats; Two Mile Landing<br />
Restaurant and Marina (609-522-1341), Harbor<br />
View (609-884-5444) and H&H Seafood<br />
(609-884-4555). All have a great selection of<br />
food and fresh seafood you can only find at<br />
the shore. Or why not explore Cumberland<br />
County, home to bald eagles and Port Norris,<br />
the one-time oyster capital of the world?<br />
Make sure you don’t miss the A.J. Meerwald,<br />
the lovely and historic Delaware Bay oyster<br />
schooner in Cape <strong>May</strong> in August.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> County Zoo<br />
Recently voted the fifth best zoo in the United<br />
States and 13th best in the world, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
County Zoo is spectacular. It has 550 animals<br />
representing 250 species from around the<br />
globe and admission to the zoo and park is<br />
free of charge. The zoo features a reptile room,<br />
world of birds and an African Savanna within<br />
its 200 acres of natural wooded areas. Pack<br />
a lunch and get over there! Open daily from<br />
10am-4:45pm, the zoo is just off Exit 11 on the<br />
Parkway. While the zoo is free, donations at<br />
the entrance are appreciated. cmczoo.com<br />
Fisherman’s Wharf Tour<br />
Take a guided tour of Fisherman’s Wharf at<br />
the Lobster House Restaurant, and learn how<br />
your seafood gets from the sea to your table<br />
and discover how Cape <strong>May</strong> has become a<br />
major fishing port. Tours are offered Tuesday<br />
and Thursday at 11am beginning June 19.<br />
exit zero 106 april-may<br />
Admission is $10 adults and $7 children. capemaymac.org<br />
Breakfast With the Pirates<br />
Children hear a pirate story over breakfast and<br />
then put on a pirate vest and eye patch to go<br />
on a pirate-y treasure hunt on the grounds.<br />
Wait … what is all that ruckus? It’s a band of<br />
pirates! Offered July 11, July 25, August 8 and<br />
22 at 9:30am. Admission is $18. Reservations<br />
required. capemaymac.org<br />
Harbor Safari<br />
A marine biologist leads you through an<br />
informational tour of Cape <strong>May</strong>’s beach and<br />
marsh habitats and the ecosystems you’ll find<br />
there. Tours are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays<br />
at 10:30am-12 and begins at the Nature<br />
Center of Cape <strong>May</strong> on Delaware Avenue. The<br />
cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. capemaymac.org<br />
Breakfast in the Sky<br />
Imagine a picnic in the sky complete with<br />
white linens and china, along with culinary<br />
delights created by Chef Wally Jurusz (formerly<br />
of Pelican Club and Lucky Bones). Yes,
SPRING BREAK <strong>2019</strong><br />
APRIL 17 - 26<br />
Thaw out from the winter frost with the Cape Resorts Explorers Club! Grab a trusty field guide and hop<br />
on over to Beach Plum Farm, where a day full of Wilderness Adventures awaits. Discover rare birds,<br />
plant a beautiful garden, create nature-inspired art, learn about life on the farm, gather round the camp<br />
fire and more! At Congress Hall, help the scientists in the CH Lab with their latest experiment, or put<br />
on your Chef’s hat to create a culinary masterpiece. Each explorer will receive a sash and a field guide<br />
at check in to use throughout their adventures. With each completed activity, explorers will receive a<br />
special button for their Adventure Sash!<br />
EXPLORE. LEARN. GROW<br />
VISIT CAPERESORTS.COM/SPRING-BREAK<br />
FOR ACTIVITY DETAILS AND RESERVATIONS<br />
exit zero 107 april-may
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
<strong>2019</strong> Summer<br />
ConCertS<br />
caPe <strong>May</strong> cOnventiOn hall<br />
Hit after hit all summer long<br />
July 3<br />
Pure Prairie league<br />
and Orleans<br />
“Aimee” & “Still The One”<br />
July 10<br />
Max Weinberg’s JukebOx<br />
Famed Springsteen drummer<br />
performing rock classics<br />
July 17<br />
Jay and the aMericans<br />
“Come A Little Bit Closer”<br />
July 24<br />
herMan’s herMits<br />
starring Peter nOOne<br />
“Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter”<br />
July 31<br />
Mavis staPles<br />
“I’ll Take You There”<br />
august 7<br />
Jay siegel’s tOkens<br />
“The Lion Sleeps Tonight”<br />
august 14<br />
the stylistics<br />
“You Are Everything”<br />
august 21<br />
the drifters<br />
“Under the Boardwalk”<br />
all shOWs<br />
begin at 8PM<br />
Call 609.884.9565<br />
or visit<br />
cape<strong>May</strong>city.com<br />
tickets: $ 48<br />
there’s breakfast, then there’s THIS breakfast — aboard a Ferris wheel.<br />
Advance reservation required. Up to four guests per car. For reservations<br />
call 609-846-1624. Runs Saturday, Sunday and Monday from<br />
July 23 through August 22. As a headsup, it costs $90 per car with two<br />
guests, and $40 per additional person. moreyspiers.com<br />
Miniature Golf<br />
Nothing like putting around Cape <strong>May</strong> and working on your short<br />
game and there are plenty of locations to do so. Cape <strong>May</strong> Miniature<br />
Golf on Jackson Street features sculpted greens, lush landscape, and<br />
real sand traps. There is also beachfront mini-golf available at Ocean<br />
Putt, on the corner of Beach and Jackson. Check out the Stockton Inn’s<br />
course on Beach amd Howard as well as a mini golf course at the shops<br />
at Sunset Beach. To really up your game, visit the Starlux course in<br />
Wildwood — it’s one of the most impressive courses around.<br />
Emlen Physick Estate Guided Tour<br />
A tour of the first two floors of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate on<br />
Washington Street with guides who relay the fascinating story of the<br />
wealthy Philadelphians — the Physick family — who lived here, and<br />
how the demands to save this house from destruction resulted in Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> becoming a National Historic Landmark City and a nationally<br />
renowned tourist destination. This year, also learn about Victorian<br />
food and foodways. Offered daily (except <strong>April</strong> 24). $15 adults and $8<br />
children ages 3-12. capemaymac.org<br />
Physick Estate Self-guided Tour<br />
Explore the first two floors of the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate house on<br />
your own and linger in the rooms that intrigue you, on this self-guided<br />
tour of the Estate house. Photos welcome. Interpretive displays tell<br />
you about important features in each room. A costumed interpreter<br />
is available for questions. Try the fine audio tour! Saturdays through<br />
<strong>April</strong> 20 and Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays beginning <strong>April</strong> 26,<br />
1pm-4pm. capemaymac.org<br />
Buy Fresh Produce<br />
New Jersey is the Garden State for a good reason. There’s some great<br />
farmland in the area. Markets like Duckie’s on Broadway, Central Park<br />
on Central Avenue, No Frills Farm on Bayshore Road, Rea’s Farm Market,<br />
Elfin Farm on Sunset Boulevard and Beach Plum Farm on Stevens<br />
Street provide fresh local produce. Support local business and cook a<br />
delicious meal with fresh ingredients!<br />
Keeper’s on Duty<br />
This entertaining session at the Education Center in Cape <strong>May</strong> Point<br />
State Park is the perfect prelude to a climb of the Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse.<br />
Learn the historic beacon’s story, as told by one of the current keepers.<br />
Sessions are free and offered Saturdays beginning <strong>May</strong> 25 at 1:15pm.<br />
capemaymac.org<br />
Parasail<br />
You don’t need to be a daredevil to let your body rise 500 feet above the<br />
ocean. Parasailing has become a popular pastime that lets you soar in<br />
the air and see Cape <strong>May</strong> from a view many people never have. There<br />
are two options to choose from: East Coast Parasail in Cape <strong>May</strong> at<br />
Utsch’s Marina (609-898-8359), eastcoastparasail.com; and Atlantic<br />
exit zero 108 april-may
3 days of love, music & rides<br />
UP TO 35% OFF APRIL 8 THRU 26<br />
SEASON PASSES. TICKET CARDS. RIDE & WATER PARK 10 PACKS.<br />
THIS SUMMER IS OUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF CREATING HANDCRAFTED FAMILY FUN.<br />
TO CELEBRATE WE’RE HAVING A BACK TO SUMMER PRE-SALE. COME VISIT TRIPADVISOR’S<br />
NUMBER 1 DESTINATION ON THE RISE. GO TO MOREYSPIERS.COM NOW AND SAVE.
Parasail at the Two Mile Landing restaurant<br />
and marina on Ocean Drive highway (609-<br />
522-1869), atlanticparasail.com.<br />
Lighthouse Storytime<br />
Bring your young children to the Education<br />
Center in Cape <strong>May</strong> Point State Park (adjacent<br />
to the Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse) to listen to<br />
nautical tales and lighthouse adventure stories.<br />
Story time is at 12:30pm every Saturday<br />
beginning <strong>May</strong> 25, free. capemaymac.org<br />
Sunset Beach<br />
For a marvelous evening follow Sunset Boulevard<br />
until it ends, then watch the sun sink<br />
beyond the jutting concrete ship, the USS<br />
Atlantus. “God Bless America” is played as<br />
fallen veterans are honored while their casket<br />
flags are lowered each evening from <strong>May</strong><br />
until September (a 40-year tradition). After<br />
the ceremony, shop for souvenirs, or play a<br />
round of mini-golf. You can always take a<br />
peaceful walk along the beach strewn with<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> diamonds. sunsetbeachnj.com<br />
Arcade<br />
A trip to the beachfront is not the same without<br />
a trip to the arcade. Grab your quarters<br />
and treat the kids to games, lights and prizes<br />
or relive beloved childhood memories. Skeeball<br />
and photo booths? No one can turn that<br />
down! Cape <strong>May</strong> Arcade has two locations,<br />
one on Beach Avenue at Convention Hall<br />
and the other at Beach Avenue and Jackson<br />
Street.<br />
Emlen Physick Estate Children’s Tour<br />
This tour is set to let children find out what<br />
life was like more than 125 years ago at the<br />
Emlen Physick Estate that was built in 1879.<br />
Tours run Mondays, beginning July 2 at 11am,<br />
and tickets are $8 for all. capemaymac.org<br />
West Cape <strong>May</strong> Farmers Market<br />
The Farmers Market offers fresh local produce<br />
and beautiful locally picked flowers.<br />
You’ll also find live music, antiques, clothes,<br />
trinkets, jewelry and much, much more.<br />
Don’t forget the food from local venders and<br />
businesses (the best BBQ you’ll every eat)!<br />
Support local Cape <strong>May</strong> Businesses! Every<br />
Tuesday from 3:30 to 7:30 pm from late June<br />
to early September. Located in the Backyard<br />
Park of West Cape <strong>May</strong> Municipal Complex.<br />
Combination Trolley/Physick Estate Tour<br />
Try out this guided tour of Cape <strong>May</strong>’s Historic<br />
District, followed by a guided tour of<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>’s only Victorian house museum,<br />
the Emlen Physick Estate, located at 1048<br />
Washington Street. Offered daily except<br />
<strong>April</strong> 24. Tickets are $25 for adults and $14<br />
for children. capemaymac.org<br />
Around Cape Island Boat Cruise<br />
Board the Cape <strong>May</strong> Whale Watcher for a sightseeing<br />
cruise around the island of Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
See majestic Victorian architecture and hear<br />
local legends and history. Offered 10am<br />
daily through <strong>May</strong> 16, 10am and 6:30pm<br />
daily beginning <strong>May</strong> 17. $35 for adults, $25<br />
for children (ages 7-12). Purchase tickets in<br />
advance at Washington Street Mall Information<br />
Booth or Hill House office at the Physick<br />
Estate, 1048 Washington St. Co-sponsored<br />
by MAC and Cape <strong>May</strong> Whale Watcher. capemaymac.org<br />
Feasting on History<br />
CAPE MAY’S BIGGEST PARTY!<br />
THE 19 t h ANNUAL RESTAURANT GALA<br />
TUESDAY, MAY 7 th a t 6 p m<br />
NASW AVIATION MUSEUM at CAPE MAY AIRPORT<br />
Sample signature entrées, dishes, & desserts from 40 of your favorite restaurants, wineries, distilleries & breweries!<br />
Tickets: $85/person or $800 for a table of 10.<br />
For more info, please call (609) 898-2300 ext. 11, or visit hcsv.org<br />
Feasting on History is a fundraiser for HSCV<br />
Foundation, a non-profit living history museum.<br />
Supported in part by a grant from the NJ<br />
Department of State, Division of Travel & Tourism.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Whale & Dolphin Cruise<br />
Board the 110-foot Cape <strong>May</strong> Whale Watcher<br />
for a three-hour cruise and the chance to see<br />
humpback whales, dozens of bottlenose dolexit<br />
zero 110 april-may
capemaystage.org<br />
Heisenberg<br />
MAY 22-JUN 21<br />
<strong>2019</strong> SEASON<br />
The Robert Shackleton Playhouse<br />
405 Lafayette St. Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Sylvia<br />
JUN 26-AUG 2<br />
609-770-8311<br />
Sidekicked<br />
AUG 7-SEP 20<br />
Written by Simon Stephens<br />
Directed by Roy Steinberg<br />
The Taming<br />
SEP 25-NOV 1<br />
Written by A.R. Gurney<br />
Directed by Roy Steinberg<br />
Written by Kim Powers<br />
Directed by Roy Steinberg<br />
Murder for Two:<br />
The Holiday Edition<br />
NOV 6-DEC 29<br />
Written by Lauren Gunderson<br />
Directed by Marlena Lustik<br />
Book & Music by Joe Kinosian<br />
Book & Lyrics by Kellen Blair<br />
Directed by Hans Friedrichs<br />
Steve Ross<br />
PNC ARTS ALIVE PRESENTS THE <strong>2019</strong> CAPE MAY STAGE<br />
Lucie Arnaz<br />
Broadway Series<br />
Carole J. Bufford<br />
Will & Anthony Nunziata<br />
July 8th July 15th Aug 12th Nov 30th<br />
exit zero 111 april-may
phins, unusual sea birds or rare sea turtles. Guaranteed marine mammal<br />
sightings! Offered 1pm Saturday and Sunday through <strong>April</strong> 14,<br />
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, <strong>April</strong> 19-21, and daily beginning <strong>April</strong> 24.<br />
Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information<br />
Booth. $50 for adults, $35 for children (ages 7-12). Co-sponsored by<br />
MAC and the Cape <strong>May</strong> Whale Watcher. capemaymac.org<br />
Romantic Activities<br />
Here are a few ideas for activities that you and your loved one<br />
can enjoy together. You will notice that some of these events<br />
are family-friendly, too — we’ll let you be the judge of that.<br />
Carriage Ride<br />
Forget about the car, bike or your own two feet; let the clip-clop of a<br />
horse’s trot guide you through the town in style. Taking a carriage is<br />
a truly unique, historic and romantic way to see the town. Besides,<br />
it beats parking. Cape <strong>May</strong> Carriage Company is based at Ocean<br />
and Washington Street. Call 609-884-4466 for more information.<br />
capemaycarriage.com<br />
Moonlight Trolley Ride<br />
Take this romantic trolley ride through the moonlit streets of Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> as a guide tells tales of Victorian romance. Tours are offered<br />
Friday, <strong>April</strong> 19 at 8pm and Saturday, <strong>May</strong> 18 at 8:45pm. Adult tickets<br />
are $15 and $12 for children. capemaymac.org<br />
Breweries and Distilleries<br />
Head over to Cape <strong>May</strong> Brewery for free tours, tasting and tour<br />
package deals or just to enjoy a cold one. There are always at least<br />
20 beers to try at any one time. On a hot, summer’s day, the Bog<br />
(cranberry shandy) is a great call. And the Honey Porter is wonderful<br />
any time! If you’re a hops fan, the Cape <strong>May</strong> IPA has won<br />
awards, and the Coastal Evacuation is a double IPA. Call 609-889-<br />
9933 or visit capemaybrewery.com. Make an afternoon of it by<br />
visiting Cold Spring Brewery, next to Historic Cold Spring Village;<br />
7 Mile Brewery in Rio Grande (609-365-7777) and Slack Tide in<br />
Clermont, just north of Cape <strong>May</strong> Court House (609-478-2343).<br />
And don’t miss the brand-new distillery in North Cape <strong>May</strong>, Nauti<br />
Spirits (609-770-3381).<br />
Wineries<br />
Southern Jersey is emerging as a serious wine-growing region —<br />
even The New York Times says so. The lovely Cape <strong>May</strong> Winery, on<br />
Townbank Road has a weekly Grill Night, Oyster Sundays, tastings<br />
and tours. Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery in Rio Grande has<br />
a beautiful wine bar and offers tastings and food pairings. Turdo<br />
Vineyards is yet another option with tasting 12-5 daily. Call 609-<br />
884-1169 for Cape <strong>May</strong> Winery or visit capemaywinery.com. Call<br />
609-846-7347 for Hawk Haven or visit Hawkhavenvineyard.com.<br />
Call 609-884-5591 for Turdo Vineyards, or visit turdovineyards.<br />
com. For Willow Creek Winery, call 609-770 8782. Jessie Creek is a<br />
little further north, in Cape <strong>May</strong> Court House, call 609-536-2023.<br />
Moonlight Trolley Ride<br />
Take this romantic trolley ride through the moonlit streets of Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> as a guide tells tales of Victorian romance. Tours are offered<br />
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Tuesday, <strong>May</strong> 29, Thursday, June 28 and Friday,<br />
July 27 at 8:45pm. Adult tickets are $12<br />
and $8 for children. capemaymac.org<br />
Get a Massage<br />
Although Cape <strong>May</strong> is already relaxing, why<br />
not make it even MORE relaxing? Try these<br />
local miracle workers: Cape <strong>May</strong> Day Spa<br />
(898-1003), Accent On Beauty (884-7040),<br />
Sea Spa at Congress Hall (884-6543), The<br />
Well (884-3177), Evolution (889-6900).<br />
Theatre<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Stage, based in a beautifully renovated<br />
church in the center of town, is the<br />
city’s premier Equity professional group and<br />
features a season that’s packed with drama,<br />
comedy, music and superb performances.<br />
Call 609-884-1341 or visit capemaystage.<br />
com. East Lynne Theater specializes in Early<br />
American Theater and is well worth a visit.<br />
They operate out of the First Presbyterian<br />
Church on Hughes Street. Call 609-884-<br />
5898 or visit eastlynnecompany.org. For a<br />
bag of laughs, you can’t go wrong at Elaine’s<br />
Dinner Theater, on Lafayette Street — call<br />
609-884-5898 for reservations.<br />
Sporty Activities<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> doesn’t just have to be about<br />
relaxing. There are a lot of physical<br />
activities to get out and try. You may<br />
even lose a few calories. Good thing<br />
given that lovely dinner you’re dreaming<br />
about tonight.<br />
Golf<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> National Golf Club has “three<br />
of the best holes in New Jersey” according<br />
to The Jersey Golfer and is nestled in 50<br />
acres of private bird sanctuary. Visit Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> National at cmngc.com or call 609-<br />
884-1563. But, if it’s your wedge that needs<br />
some work, Cape <strong>May</strong> Par 3 will let you play<br />
18 holes for just $15.95. No bag? No problem.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Par 3 rents clubs for just $2.<br />
Visit them at capemaypar3.com or call 609-<br />
889-2600. Laguna Oaks is another beautiful<br />
200-acre course off exit 10 of the Garden<br />
State Parkway. For more information call<br />
609-465-4560 or visit lagunaoaksgolf.com<br />
Bike Ride<br />
It’s no secret to tourists and locals alike:<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> is a biking town. Have you even<br />
tried to navigate the streets of Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
during rush hour? It’s enough to make you<br />
want to start jogging places. But have no<br />
fear; there are bike rentals that beat braking<br />
(and braking again, then honking, then<br />
braking once more). Cape Island Bike 727<br />
Beach Avenue or 135 Sunset Boulevard<br />
(609-884-8011), Shields Bike Rentals 11<br />
Gurney Street (609-898-1818), Village<br />
Bicycle 605 Lafayette Street (609-884-<br />
8011), Congress Hall Bike Shop (888-944-<br />
1816).<br />
Nature Trails<br />
Near the lighthouse in the Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Point State Park are several trails weaving<br />
through ponds, dunes, marsh and forest.<br />
There are different levels of difficulty<br />
marked by colors, and most of the trails<br />
have wooden walkways. Even on the longest<br />
trails, breathtaking scenes in a tranquil<br />
setting will make you wish it were longer.<br />
Make sure you bring comfortable shoes.<br />
Yoga<br />
Join the Gypsy Yogini Karen Bosna for<br />
classes all over Cape <strong>May</strong>. Call 609-827-<br />
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Benefits those living with paralysis in Cape <strong>May</strong>,<br />
Atlantic, Ocean and Cumberland Counties.<br />
Sunday, August 18th<br />
16 Mile Crossing<br />
from<br />
Cape Henelopen, DE<br />
to Cape <strong>May</strong>, NJ<br />
4 Mile Recreational<br />
Paddle from<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Point, NJ<br />
to Cape <strong>May</strong>, NJ<br />
After Party/Awards: Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grille 2:00-6:00pm<br />
They Will<br />
Surf Again<br />
August 4th<br />
Wildwood, NJ<br />
DeSatnick Foundation is a 501(c)3 Non-profit<br />
www.DeSatnickFoundation.org info@DeSatnickFoundation.org<br />
exit zero 114 april-may
8886 or visit yogacapemay.com. Classes<br />
are also offered on the lawn of grand old<br />
Congress Hall. The classes start at 8:30am<br />
daily and pre-registration is required. Stop<br />
by the front desk of Congress Hall or call<br />
609-884-8421. For indoors, visit Balance<br />
Pilates, located at 600 Park Boulevard in<br />
West Cape <strong>May</strong>. Call Judy Heany at 609-<br />
884-3001.<br />
Tennis<br />
The William J. Moore Tennis Club — named<br />
after the first black (as well as the oldest)<br />
tennis pro in America — rents rackets, balls,<br />
and courts. It’s located next to the Emlen<br />
Physick Estate on Washington Street and<br />
there are always a variety of local characters<br />
up for a game, match, or set. The courts are<br />
open to the public daily for just $15 per hour<br />
and a half. Call 609-884-8986.<br />
Horseback Riding<br />
At Hidden Valley Ranch, you can take lessons<br />
in the pastimes of heroes and kings<br />
under the watchful gaze of Nancy, the<br />
toughest, but ultimately most lovable<br />
instructor you could ever hope for. Call<br />
Hidden Valley Ranch at 609-884-8205 for<br />
more information.<br />
Fishing<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> is one of the busiest commercial<br />
fishing ports in the US. The sport fishing is<br />
big business, too... AND lots of fun. South<br />
Jersey Marina boasts a top-notch selection<br />
of boats with crews who know these waters<br />
better than anyone. Try the experienced,<br />
knowledgeable team of Stalker Fishing<br />
Charters (609-972-5218) or the Miss Chris<br />
fleet (609-884-3939). For all your bait and<br />
tackle needs, stop by Jim’s Bait and Tackle<br />
on Route 109 by the harbor (609-884-<br />
3900).<br />
Tidal Marsh Tour by Kayak<br />
Explore Cape <strong>May</strong> County’s most beautiful<br />
and untouched salt marsh via sit-ontop<br />
kayaks. It’s a great way to see nesting<br />
ospreys, herons, egrets, and assorted crabs.<br />
There are two options to choose from:<br />
Aqua Trails at 1600 Delaware Avenue in the<br />
Nature Center (609-884-5600), aquatrails.<br />
com) and Miss Chris Marina (609-884-<br />
3351, misschrismarina.com).<br />
Stand Up Paddleboarding<br />
See the beauty of Cape <strong>May</strong> from a different<br />
perspective, while giving your core the<br />
workout of its life. Paddle around the island<br />
with friends or family. There are plenty of<br />
places to rent or take a tour. Steger Beach<br />
Service offer rentals, tours and rentals at<br />
Utsch’s Marina — visit stegerbeachservice.<br />
com. Aqua Trails offer tours and rentals at<br />
the Nature Center of Cape <strong>May</strong>, 1600 Delaware<br />
Avenue — visit aquatrails.com.<br />
Parasail<br />
You don’t need to be a daredevil to let your<br />
body rise 500 feet above the ocean, nor do<br />
you need wings. Parasailing has become a<br />
popular pastime that lets you soar in the air<br />
and see Cape <strong>May</strong> from a view many people<br />
never have. It may be a view to die for, but<br />
we can assure you that you won’t be risking<br />
anything — the boat captains are Coast<br />
Guard certified and extremely safe. There<br />
are two options to choose from: East Coast<br />
Parasail in Cape <strong>May</strong> at Utsch’s Marina<br />
(898-8359) and Atlantic Parasail at the<br />
Two Mile Landing restaurant and marina<br />
on Ocean Drive highway (522-1869).<br />
A spectacular harbor setting<br />
CORINTHIAN<br />
YACHT CLUB<br />
of CAPE MAY<br />
for your special event<br />
Our traditional clubhouse,<br />
gorgeous sunset views and<br />
exceptional cuisine lend a<br />
memorable, distinctive touch to<br />
any gathering. Relax around our<br />
firepit before and after!<br />
1819 DELAWARE AVENUE, CAPE MAY<br />
609-884-8000 • cyccm.com / capemaybeachwedding.com<br />
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Drink the Cape
The definitive guide to local<br />
wineries, breweries, distilleries<br />
The tasting room at Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Winery on Town Bank Road attracts<br />
a good crowd year-round.
Hawk Haven Winery co-owner Todd<br />
Wuerker tastes the goods along<br />
with his colleagues. Hawk Haven is a<br />
short drive from Cape <strong>May</strong>.<br />
Local beer, wine and spirits have gone from a boomtown rush to an<br />
established part of the Jersey Cape landscape, and the expansion does<br />
not look over yet. Local beers are on tap in bars throughout town and<br />
throughout the region and cans from Cape <strong>May</strong> Brewery and 7 Mile<br />
are chilling in the cold sections of local retail outlets. Local wineries<br />
started first and have grown into important tourist attractions as well<br />
as producing award-winning vintages year after year. Here’s our suggestions<br />
for what to sample when you explore the local beverage scene.<br />
But definitely don’t take our word for it — go out and try something you<br />
think you’ll like. — BILL BARLOW<br />
That is on the high end of their line, at<br />
about $40 a bottle. They also offer some<br />
more affordable wines, including their Flying<br />
Press red, which he described as a fun,<br />
pizza or burger wine compared to some of<br />
their more serious efforts. White, red and<br />
rosé Flying Press go for $10 to $15 a bottle.<br />
Third generation Cape locals, Ken and Todd<br />
decided about 20 years ago to plant wine<br />
grapes on land their grandfather had cultivated<br />
in the 1940s. The winery opened about<br />
10 years after that. Along with tours and<br />
tastings, the winery offers numerous special<br />
events, including the Rootstock music series.<br />
Wineries<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Winery and Vineyard<br />
711 Town Bank Road, North Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
What to Drink: Sauvignon Blanc<br />
Like arguing over the best guitarist in history<br />
(Jimi Hendrix, of course), choosing a “best”<br />
wine is a pointless but entertaining exercise.<br />
And if you made the wine, it’s all the<br />
more personal. So it’s no surprise that Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Winery owner Toby Craig balked when<br />
asked which of his wines he’d recommend.<br />
He wanted to suggest trying them all, but<br />
then again so did every other winery owner.<br />
He recommended the sauvignon blanc, new<br />
last year and very good, he said. Every year’s<br />
chardonnay is good, he added, mentioned<br />
the Isaac Smith Reserve and the cabernet<br />
sauvignon for the red drinkers.<br />
Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery<br />
600 South Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande<br />
What to Drink: Cabernet Franc<br />
Hawk Haven’s wines have always done well<br />
in competition, according to Todd Wuerker,<br />
who founded the winery with his brother<br />
Ken. But the winery’s 2012 Cabernet Franc<br />
took a medal as the best in the state.<br />
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Willow Creek Winery and Farm<br />
160-168 Stevens Street, West Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
What to Drink: Wilde Cock Red<br />
A visit to the Willow Creek tasting room<br />
includes braving a series of rough dirt roads<br />
before the view opens to the vineyards, where<br />
once stood a disused lima bean field, and the<br />
winery and tasting room, a purpose-built<br />
structure with a huge interior space for weddings,<br />
events and concerts.<br />
Owned by Barbara Wilde, who also owns<br />
the Southern Mansion, the winery offers<br />
overnight stays and an extensive menu.<br />
Willow Creek planted the first vines in
2004, and 2010 was the first bottled vintage.<br />
Staff members said they can’t keep up with<br />
demand. The first-taste suggestion: Wilde<br />
Cock Red, a dry red from merlot and petite<br />
shiraz grapes at $26 a bottle.<br />
Turdo Vineyards and Winery<br />
3911 Bayshore Road, North Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
What to Drink: Nero D’Avola<br />
Nero D’Avola, the black grape of Avola in<br />
southeast Sicily, is rarely cultivated in the<br />
United States, but called one of the most<br />
important grapes in Sicilian wines. So it<br />
makes sense that Salvatore Turdo, originally<br />
from Sicily, would have some on hand when<br />
he started a winery.<br />
His son Luca Turdo, an owner and one of<br />
the winemakers, said his parents were both<br />
born in Sicily. His mom was from the city,<br />
but Salvatore — usually shorted to Turi there<br />
rather than Sal — grew up in the country,<br />
growing lemons, grapes, olives and wheat,<br />
and always, always making wine.<br />
“He learned from his grandfather in<br />
Sicily, and when he moved to the States in<br />
the early ’70s, he used to make wine in the<br />
garage,” said Luca. He started the winery in<br />
1999 and opened the tasting room in 2002.<br />
Turdo is best known for their Italian<br />
styles, including prizewinning Barbera and<br />
Sangiovese wines. They also make white<br />
wine from another Sicilian grape, Grillo, and<br />
according to Luca, as far as they can tell they<br />
are the only commercial winery growing it<br />
in the US. He suggested the Nero D’Avola as<br />
the best starting point to experience Turdo<br />
wines. They describe the finished wine as<br />
very elegant, showing lots of fruit. Bottle<br />
prices range from $17 to $35.<br />
Natali Vineyards<br />
221 North Delsea Drive, Goshen<br />
What to Drink: Albariño<br />
Alfred Natali had a career on Wall Street<br />
before he bought an old horse farm on Route<br />
47 in the Goshen section of Middle Township<br />
in 2000. He said he spent a year getting<br />
the soil ready for the vines before planting.<br />
He also attended UC Davis in northern California,<br />
one of the top viticulture schools in<br />
the country. He has 22 acres on the site.<br />
If you like white wine, he recommends<br />
his Albariño, a grape that thrives in northwest<br />
Spain and Portugal, or Viognier. For<br />
red, he’s going with their Nebiollo. He says<br />
he’s got 15 kinds of grapes on four different<br />
root stocks, with varietals from throughout<br />
Europe. In the European style of winemaking,<br />
a vineyard or a region typically cultivates<br />
a single type of vinefra, not a dozen, but<br />
Natali points out that in those areas they’ve<br />
had hundreds of years of experience telling<br />
them which grape does best where. In Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong>, he said, wine makers have had 20. To<br />
make a winery work, he said, a vintner needs<br />
three things from his grapes: they have to<br />
survive the winter, they need to have enough<br />
yield per acre to make it worthwhile, and<br />
ultimately they have to produce a good wine.<br />
Jessie Creek Winery<br />
1 North Delsea Drive, Cape <strong>May</strong> Court House<br />
What to Drink: Stratus<br />
Every vineyard starts with a story, and Jessie<br />
Creek’s starts with Dr. Bruce Morrison<br />
riding his Harley Road King along the back<br />
roads of Cape <strong>May</strong> County and onto a vineyard<br />
off Route 47. He was looking to buy a<br />
vineyard, and he said he and former owner<br />
Joe Yuzzi just hit it off from the start. Yuzzi<br />
grew grapes for other wineries in the area,<br />
and there was a house built in the 1800s on<br />
the site. The name is a combination of Yuzzi’s<br />
mother’s name and Dias Creek.<br />
Morrison, a family practice doctor in<br />
Huntington Valley, PA, has long dreamed of<br />
owning a vineyard. A bed and breakfast inn<br />
Award-winning Cape <strong>May</strong> Brewing<br />
Company has more than 100<br />
flagship, seasonal and small-batch<br />
brews under their umbrella.<br />
exit zero 119 april-may
opened on the site in 2010, and the winery<br />
opened in 2012. They produce fruit wine,<br />
including apple and blueberry, and whites<br />
and reds in several varieties. “The winery is<br />
definitely moving in the right direction,” said<br />
Morrison. They offer a summer gris, which<br />
he described as light with notes of raspberry,<br />
and their Dias Creek is a best seller.<br />
His recommendation? Their Stratus, half<br />
Chambourcin, French-American hybrid that<br />
seems to thrive on the Cape, and a quarter<br />
each of Merlot and Cabernet. It’s listed at<br />
$25 a bottle.<br />
G&W Winery<br />
1034 Route 47 South, Rio Grande<br />
What to Drink: Merlot<br />
The area’s newest winery is also its smallest.<br />
“We don’t have a nice, big building. You can’t<br />
come in and buy a glass,” said Jerry Hellman,<br />
one of the three partners in the vineyard.<br />
“We are a small farm winery.” He said<br />
the winery is open on weekends, and people<br />
who come by will probably find the owners<br />
working among the vines. They can stop for<br />
a tasting, and buy a bottle, and the winery<br />
has a waiting list for its very limited release<br />
each year, 1,000 bottles all told. They’re $20,<br />
except for a blend, which is $23.<br />
Hellman, Dennis Hasson and Travis<br />
Thomas all work in the Haddonfield school<br />
district. Two are teachers and have time off<br />
in the summer. Hellman is the school psychologist,<br />
and doesn’t, but he said he’s getting<br />
close to retirement and asked to become<br />
part of the business. Hellman said the cabernet<br />
franc seems to thrive on the cape, and<br />
they offer a chardonnay and a pinot.<br />
He suggested trying the merlot. The<br />
vines have been in for six or seven years, and<br />
they’ve been making wine for three.<br />
The winery gets its name from the initials<br />
of Grace and Willow, daughters of Marie and<br />
Dennis Hasson.<br />
Breweries<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Brewing Company<br />
1288 Hornet Road, Cape <strong>May</strong> Airport<br />
What to Drink: Always Ready<br />
If Cape <strong>May</strong> Brewing Company’s tasting<br />
room at the Cape <strong>May</strong> Airport is open, whatever<br />
time of year, there’s almost always a<br />
crowd. There’s a good chance some in that<br />
crowd will be drinking the beloved Coastal<br />
Evacuation IPA, a bright, citrusy beer that<br />
goes down happy and hoppy. And owner<br />
Ryan Krill is proud of the numerous fruit<br />
beers on offer, including the 8 percent Apple<br />
Bomb. But when the days start heating up,<br />
the crew at Cape <strong>May</strong> Brewing Company<br />
recommends a recent addition to the extensive<br />
lineup, named in honor of the Coast<br />
Guard’s motto. Always Ready is a northeast<br />
pale ale with a relatively low alcohol by<br />
volume, coming in at 4.8 ABV. Head brewer<br />
Brian Hink said it took a few tries to zero in<br />
on the Goldilocks zone, getting feedback on<br />
the first couple batches to get the right balance<br />
of hops, flavor, feel and bitterness.<br />
MudHen Brewing Company<br />
127 W. Rio Grande Ave., Wildwood<br />
What to Drink: Pike Pole Pilsner<br />
Once upon a time, the first train to carry visitors<br />
to Wildwood was called the mud hen.<br />
The West Jersey Railroad ran from Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> Court House to Anglesea through the<br />
marsh and over a precarious bridge. Owner<br />
Brendan Sciarra liked the sense of history<br />
and decided to take that name for his latest<br />
venture, MudHen Brewing Company, which<br />
opened its doors this spring to much fanfare.<br />
Unlike the many other breweries on this<br />
list, MudHen is a brew pub — an unusual<br />
designation in New Jersey and unique in<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> County. Among other things, that<br />
means MudHen can offer a full menu. The<br />
other breweries can sell their beers on site<br />
but cannot by law have a kitchen. The project<br />
was in the works for about two years,<br />
according to Russ Simmons, the marketing<br />
director. The business is set for crowds this<br />
summer, with three bars, extensive seating<br />
and an outdoor area just for hanging out with<br />
friends around the firepits. The names of the<br />
beers reflect local history. It’s early days, but<br />
the 7.4 percent 1883 IPA has stood out as the<br />
mainstay for the brew pub. Simmons recommended<br />
the Captain Doug Porter, which he<br />
described as a smooth ride. For a little added<br />
history, brewmaster Tony Cunha is a descendant<br />
of Captain Doug Wilson, who sailed out<br />
of Cape <strong>May</strong> for about 20 years.<br />
Ludlam Island Brewing<br />
9 Stoney Court, Ocean View<br />
What to Drink: Harry’s Coffee Pale Ale<br />
Off the beaten track, in the same well-camexit<br />
zero 120 april-may<br />
Cold Spring Brewery<br />
7233 Seashore Road, Cold Spring<br />
What to Drink: Cold Spring Red<br />
Cold Spring Brewery started with four beers:<br />
an American wheat, a German wheat, a red<br />
ale and a porter. The brewery and tasting<br />
room is in a renovated 200-or-so-year-old<br />
barn moved from the Palermo section of<br />
Upper Township to the current site on Seashore<br />
Road, a project that started with HCSV<br />
board approval in 2014. The offerings include<br />
a rotating series of limited edition brews,<br />
along with the dark brown Dennisville Inn<br />
Porter and Cold Spring Red, the brewery’s<br />
most popular offering and our recommendation<br />
for your first pint at the brewery.<br />
7 Mile Brewery<br />
3156 Route 9, Rio Grande<br />
What to Drink: 7 Suns Double IPA<br />
On Route 9 in Rio Grande, 7 Mile Brewery is<br />
about the easiest craft brewery in the county<br />
to find, which founders Pete Beyda and Chris<br />
Collette say is not an accident. An off-season<br />
Friday evening saw the place hopping, with<br />
a thirsty and welcoming crowd and at least<br />
one friendly mixed breed dog greeting those<br />
heading to the bar. The owners say their 7<br />
Sons Double IPA is their most popular of the<br />
numerous beers on tap, and it’s easy to see<br />
why. Brewing beer is a kind of alchemy, part<br />
art, part science, part magic, and for 7 Sons,<br />
what might have been a palate-blowing<br />
hops blast comes in with a nice balance and<br />
a great bitter finish. It’s 7.5 percent alcohol,<br />
with a whopping 90 IBU, the International<br />
Bittering Units scale. For comparison, a Bud,<br />
Miller or Coors would come in about a 10.<br />
Slack Tide<br />
1072 Route 83, Clermont<br />
What to Drink: Angry Osprey IPA<br />
Slack Tide brewery was barely open when it<br />
started reeling in the beer awards, including<br />
honors at the Philadelphia Inquirer Brewvitational<br />
and a best of Craft Beer award in<br />
Bend, Oregon last year. On a brewery tour,<br />
a group of friends dug into two loaded tasting<br />
flights, the small glasses a spectrum from<br />
deep black to light amber. Some showed real<br />
love for the Knockdown Black IPA, but it was<br />
the Angry Osprey that emptied first. At 6.8<br />
percent alcohol, its goes down nicely, but the<br />
well-balanced hops call out for seconds. Or<br />
thirds, if you’ve got an Uber.
Nauti Spirits Distillery won a<br />
gold medal for their vodka at<br />
the San Francisco World Spirits<br />
Competition.<br />
ouflaged Ocean View warehouse that was<br />
once home to Tuckahoe Brewing, Ludlam<br />
Island offers several styles, including several<br />
IPAs and a Kolsh, but I suggest you ask<br />
for Harry’s Coffee Pale Ale. Combining their<br />
Foundation Rye Pale Ale and coffee from<br />
Harry and Beans next door, the crew at Ludlam<br />
resisted the usual math of coffee-plusbeer-equals<br />
porter and provided a unique<br />
and delicious surprise. Rye beers seem to<br />
be a growing trend, and their 5.2 percent<br />
version works fine on its own, but the coffee<br />
adds a nice, buzzy foreground.<br />
Bucket Brigade Brewery<br />
205 North Main Street, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Court House<br />
What to Drink: Pike Pole Pilsner<br />
The Bucket Brigade Brewery on Route 9 in<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Court House has red ales, Belgian<br />
beers, an IPA and black ale, but brewery<br />
President Karl Hughes recommends starting<br />
with the pilsner. “It’s light and easy drinking<br />
and what most people are used to.” He<br />
and Kurt Hughes – his identical twin and<br />
the main brewer – were homebrewers and<br />
firemen who wanted to take things to the<br />
next level, joining with lifelong friend Mark<br />
McPherson to form the brewing company<br />
in 2016. They bought the old H.B Christman<br />
and Sons building and began their extensive<br />
renovations, opening the doors last year.<br />
Distilleries<br />
Nauti Spirits<br />
916 Shunpike Road, Cold Spring<br />
What to Drink: Rum Daiquiri<br />
“I would get a daiquiri,” suggests Brendan<br />
Wheatley, the vice president and head distiller<br />
at Nauti Spirits, just north of the Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> canal. He suggested that more people<br />
drinking daiquiris would clearly bring summer<br />
faster. It stands to reason, right? The<br />
drink includes Nauti Spirits rum, fresh lime<br />
juice and sugar. The distillery has been open<br />
just over a year, serving locally made vodka,<br />
gin and rum, with bourbon on the way. That<br />
one needs more time to mature. The distillery<br />
uses locally grown herbs and produce in<br />
its line of cocktails and grows its own sweet<br />
potatoes that becomes the base for their distilled<br />
spirits.<br />
The company took a long-fallow field,<br />
one Wheatley said needed some love, and<br />
grew 27,000 pounds of sweet potatoes last<br />
year. “It’s a little bit of tilting at windmills,<br />
but it’s the right thing to do,” he said, helping<br />
keep sustainable farming in the area. The<br />
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locally distilled liquors have been collecting<br />
awards at competitions, including at the San<br />
Francisco World Spirits Competition, and<br />
Wheatley plans to begin a line of liqueurs for<br />
inclusion in their cocktails.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Distillery<br />
371 Route 47, Cape <strong>May</strong> Court House<br />
What to Drink: Double Barrel Honey<br />
On a lonely stretch of Route 47, in the far<br />
corner of Middle Township, sits Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Distillery. It’s been open for four years. It<br />
was the first distillery in Cape <strong>May</strong> County<br />
and the second in the state. It’s meant to<br />
resemble a Victorian speakeasy. Customers<br />
enter through a vestibule that looks like an<br />
old-fashioned phone booth leading to a cozy<br />
bar. On offer are several rums, including<br />
blueberry rums and coconut rum, gin, bourbon<br />
and the Double Barrel Honey, distilled<br />
from the handiwork of local bees. In the glass<br />
and on the tongue, it resembles a whiskey,<br />
with the honey flavor standing quietly in the<br />
background until the after taste. It weighs<br />
in at 80 proof, which is 40 percent alcohol,<br />
and the owners said it mixes well, but sipped<br />
neat, the liquor gets a chance to open up in<br />
the mouth, unveiling each flavor in turn.
If you haven’t seen those cute trolleys rolling<br />
through the streets of Cape <strong>May</strong>, there are<br />
one of two explanations: You’re not paying<br />
attention, or this is your first time visiting<br />
America’s Original Seaside Resort. In any<br />
event, here is a handy guide that tells you the<br />
what, when and why of trolley tours. For more<br />
information, get in touch with the Mid-Atlantic<br />
Center for the Arts and Humanities, who<br />
run the trolleys, as well as other fun things.<br />
Visit them at capemaymac.org.<br />
The Definitive Trolley Guide<br />
GHOSTS OF THE LIGHTHOUSE<br />
Where It Goes: Begins and ends at Washington<br />
Street Mall Information Booth, traveling<br />
through parts of West Cape <strong>May</strong> to the lighthouse.<br />
How Long It Runs: One hour.<br />
When It Runs: Fridays, <strong>April</strong> 26 through<br />
<strong>May</strong> 17 at 8:45pm, <strong>May</strong> 24 through June 7 at<br />
8:30pm, and Sunday, <strong>May</strong> 26 at 8:30pm.<br />
What It Is: The 1859 Cape <strong>May</strong> Lighthouse has<br />
a frightfully lonely visage at night — the perfect<br />
setting for the ghostly tales unearthed by<br />
psychic medium and Cape <strong>May</strong> ghostwriter<br />
Craig McManus. Your guide will share Craig’s<br />
findings as you travel through West Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
and end at the lighthouse for a night climb to<br />
the top. Hear about lonely maids who continue<br />
to wander inns, ghostly pirates still desperately<br />
digging for treasure, and more.<br />
Who It’s For: Those who enjoy a tantalizing<br />
tale.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>’s Wild side<br />
Where It Goes: Throughout Cape Island to<br />
the area’s natural “hotspots.”<br />
How Long It Lasts: About two hours.<br />
When It Runs: Wednesdays beginning June 5<br />
at 8:30am.<br />
What It Is: Beyond the charming Victorian<br />
homes and sandy beaches, Cape <strong>May</strong> is<br />
world famous for its birdwatching, monarch<br />
migration and natural history. Join Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Bird Observatory naturalists on a trolley tour<br />
to local “hotspots” with exits at several stops<br />
along the way, learning about the diversity,<br />
abundance — millions of birds pass through<br />
each year — geography and extensive history<br />
of this amazing natural spectacle. You’ll learn<br />
why Cape <strong>May</strong> has been called the birding<br />
capital of North America. Co-sponsored<br />
by New Jersey Audubon’s Cape <strong>May</strong> Bird<br />
Observatory.<br />
Who It’s For: Early birds and those who love<br />
learning about Cape <strong>May</strong>’s natural wonders.<br />
Historic District<br />
Where It Goes: Through the historic district.<br />
How Long It Lasts: About 45 minutes.<br />
When It Runs: Daily; hours vary.<br />
What It Is: It’s beautiful. It’s charming. Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> — one of the few places you can wander<br />
through and feel that it’s more than 100 years<br />
ago. Tour guides will explain how and why it<br />
survived.<br />
Who It’s For: Anyone and everyone who finds<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> charming.<br />
Insider Tip: Combine this tour with a guided<br />
tour of the Emlen Physick Estate and save $5.<br />
Mansions by the Sea<br />
Where It Goes: Along Beach Avenue, through<br />
the early 20th century East Cape <strong>May</strong> development<br />
areas<br />
How Long It Lasts: About 40 minutes.<br />
When It Runs: Daily beginning <strong>April</strong> 26. Hours<br />
vary.<br />
What It Is: See how the rich lived in the early<br />
20th century. When $1 million really meant<br />
something — before income tax. Also, see<br />
new beachfront second homes, which run<br />
the gamut from the mere wealthy to the fabulously<br />
rich.<br />
Who It’s For: Anyone who’s curious how the<br />
one-quarter of one percent lives.<br />
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underground railroad<br />
Where It Goes: Throughout Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
How Long It Lasts: About 45 minutes.<br />
When It Runs: Saturdays beginning <strong>April</strong> 27<br />
at 10:15am.<br />
What It Is: Cape <strong>May</strong> was part of the Underground<br />
Railroad and this new trolley tour<br />
tells the stories of those dangerous days.<br />
Hear how, fleeing their chains in Maryland,<br />
Delaware and Virginia, African-American<br />
slaves braved strong currents and stormy<br />
seas, guided by the beacon at the Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Lighthouse. Hear how legendary anti-slavery<br />
fighter, Harriet Tubman, walked these streets,<br />
as did businessman and former slave, Stephen<br />
Smith, whose railroad cars carried hundreds<br />
to freedom. Co-sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic<br />
Center for the Arts and Humanities and<br />
the Center for Community Arts.<br />
Who It’s For: Anyone and everyone who<br />
seeks to understand our nation’s history.<br />
Welcome to Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Where It Goes: Throughout Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
How Long It Lasts: About 45 minutes.<br />
When It Runs: Saturdays, <strong>April</strong> 13 and 20 at<br />
2:30pm. Daily beginning <strong>April</strong> 26; hours vary.<br />
What It Is: The best introduction to Cape<br />
<strong>May</strong> for first-timers. Find the hidden gems and<br />
little-known treasures as well as natural and<br />
cultural points of interest.<br />
Who It’s For: You just arrived to Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
and can’t wait to see the town. You’ve been to<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> before, but it’s been awhile. You’re<br />
a local, but you’ve never taken this delightful<br />
tour that celebrates your ever-so-charming<br />
hometown.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>hem<br />
Where It Goes: Through the historic district.<br />
How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes.<br />
When It Runs: Offered Saturdays beginning
Explore Amazing Things...<br />
NATURE CENTER<br />
OF CAPE MAY<br />
ADULT, FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS YEAR-ROUND<br />
Kayaking Trips • Cycling Tours • Family Hikes • Private Garden Tours<br />
Beginner Birding Field Trips • Wildlife-Friendly Gardening Programs.<br />
1600 DELAWARE AVENUE, CAPE MAY<br />
(609) 898-8848 • NJAUDUBON.ORG/CENTERS/NCCM
Robert Panaccio, VMD<br />
Robert Moffatt, VMD<br />
Nancy Reilly, VMD<br />
A healthy pet<br />
has lots<br />
to smile about.<br />
694 Petticoat Creek Lane • 884-1729 • capemayvet.com<br />
<strong>April</strong> 27, and Fridays and Saturdays beginning <strong>May</strong> 24, in the evening<br />
hours.<br />
What It Is: Headless photography? Electric corsets? Coffin torpedoes?<br />
You won’t believe some of the strange beliefs, oddities, fads and<br />
superstitions of the Victorians. This trolley tour explores them. Hear<br />
stories from Cape <strong>May</strong>’s history that are bizarre, unexplained or just<br />
plain weird.<br />
Who It’s For: You’re drawn to the macabre. Philadelphia’s Mutter<br />
Museum? It’s on your fave list.<br />
Moonlight ride<br />
Where It Goes: Along Beach Avenue and through the Historic District.<br />
How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes.<br />
When It Runs: On select nights of the full moon: Friday, <strong>April</strong> 19 at 8pm<br />
and Saturday, <strong>May</strong> 18 at 8:45pm.<br />
What It Is: Victorians tended to sentimentalize even the most mundane<br />
of things, from teacups to toothbrushes. Take this romantic trolley<br />
ride along the beachfront under the light of the full moon, through<br />
the heart of the Historic District, and you’ll hear tales of Victorian<br />
courtship. Snuggle up and imagine the simmering passions of Victorian<br />
couples courting, as they strolled the promenade.<br />
Who It’s For: You’re a romantic.<br />
Ghosts of Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Where It Goes: Through our historic streets.<br />
How Long It Lasts: About 30 minutes.<br />
When It Runs: Offered in the evenings Saturday, March 30, Fridays<br />
and Saturdays <strong>April</strong> 5 through <strong>April</strong> 27, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays,<br />
<strong>April</strong> 1 through <strong>May</strong> 25 (except <strong>May</strong> 18), and every evening<br />
beginning <strong>May</strong> 26. Hours vary,<br />
What It Is: What was that? The undead of Cape <strong>May</strong> come back to settle<br />
their scores? Just be grateful you’re in a trolley with an experienced<br />
guide to tell you about the many hauntings discovered by Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
author and medium Craig McManus.<br />
Who It’s For: Those who enjoy a good ghost story.<br />
YOGA ON THE BEACH<br />
Flow this Summer<br />
« Cape <strong>May</strong> Point State Park<br />
«Convention Hall Beach<br />
«David Douglass Memorial Park<br />
PLUS!<br />
Aqua Yoga @ Lower Township Pool<br />
& Cape <strong>May</strong> City Pool<br />
Tai Chi @ Convention Hall Beach<br />
Plenty of free parking!<br />
Visit yogacapemay.com<br />
for a complete schedule<br />
or call Karen at 609-827-8886<br />
Rain or Shine... there is Shelter<br />
from the Storm with Ocean Views<br />
Psychic medium Craig McManus inspired the Ghosts of Cape <strong>May</strong> tour<br />
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Cherishing Life’s Moments<br />
Serving Cape <strong>May</strong> & Lower Township<br />
609-884-3793<br />
spilkerfuneralhome.com<br />
DENNIS J. SPILKER Manager/Funeral Director NJ # 4038 • KEVIN J. BEARE Funeral Director NJ # 3806<br />
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Complete Surgical, Diagnostic, &<br />
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Fair Pricing Policy: Same Price, 24/7<br />
New Patients & Visitors Welcome<br />
DR. IRA S. NIEDWESKE, MEDICAL DIRECTOR<br />
OCEANVIEWVETNJ.COM | 609-486-5025 | 2033 US 9 NORTH, CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, NJ 08210<br />
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Property
Spicers Creek is an exciting residential and leisure development evolving at Cape <strong>May</strong> harbor.<br />
Spicing Up The Harborfront<br />
ARTICLE JACK WRIGHT<br />
It started around 2008 with the erection<br />
of a Victorian-style condo with a turquoise<br />
metal roof at the end of Lafayette<br />
Street. Seven more buildings followed,<br />
and it seemed like something interesting<br />
was brewing at Cape <strong>May</strong> Marina,<br />
home of a planned new harborfront housing<br />
development called Osprey Landing. In<br />
2011, the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts<br />
and Humanities held their seventh annual<br />
Designer Show House at Osprey Landing,<br />
starring a $2.2 million four-story waterfront<br />
townhome. It was the first time MAC had<br />
featured a new property for the annual event<br />
— previously they had always chosen historic<br />
homes.<br />
The designers chosen to transform the<br />
property were inspired by the wildlife of the<br />
harbor and the wetlands, where stirring sunrises<br />
are followed by spectacular sunsets.<br />
Then the real estate market tanked and construction<br />
at Osprey Landing halted.<br />
But the dream of creating an exciting new<br />
harborside community was only on hold. In<br />
January of 2013, the marina and the development<br />
was bought from the Kocis family by<br />
Scarborough Properties, a developer based in<br />
Ocean City with decades of experience in creating<br />
waterfront communities. Now renamed<br />
Spicers Creek (it’s the waterway that connects<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Marina to the canal), the plan for a<br />
harborfront community looks like it’s coming<br />
along nicely. Scarborough Properties, who<br />
own six marinas between here and Atlantic<br />
City, sold the remaining seven townhomes<br />
from the initial development and revised the<br />
exit zero 128 april-may<br />
original plans, creating 29 new home sites.<br />
Recently, I enjoyed a couple visits to the<br />
home of a friend, whose four-story townhouse<br />
sits on the waterfront, allowing him<br />
to grab his paddleboard from the first-floor<br />
garage and slip right into the water. A pretty<br />
nice way to start the day. At night he can head<br />
up to the roof with a cocktail to enjoy a spectacular<br />
panoramic view of the island. I’d never<br />
seen Cape <strong>May</strong> from this vantage point before<br />
— it looked like a whole new place to me.<br />
I could get used to this — if I only learned<br />
how to paddleboard without falling into the<br />
water every 20 seconds.<br />
I spoke with John Michael Gartland and<br />
his wife Mary Lou, who put their condo at the<br />
Devonshire, in downtown Cape <strong>May</strong>, on the<br />
market and moved into a new five-bedroom<br />
townhome at Spicers Creek. “We loved living
Featured Sale Listing<br />
1460 Missouri Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Presented by CHRISTINA P. CLEMANS<br />
BROKER/OWNER<br />
chris@chrisclemanssir.com<br />
Featured<br />
Sale Listing<br />
915 Washington St.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong><br />
Listed by CHARITY R. CLARK<br />
BROKER SALESPERSON GRI, ABR<br />
609.408.2192 - charitycapemay@gmail.com<br />
Advice. Experience. Results.<br />
Christina P. Clemans Licensed Real Estate Broker<br />
1159 Washington Street Cape <strong>May</strong>, NJ 08204 609-884-3332 www.chrisclemanssir.com<br />
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The harborfront is Cape <strong>May</strong>’s upcoming district and Spicers Creek features these exciting new home designs from Scarborough Properties.<br />
at the Devonshire — we could walk everywhere,<br />
it was so convenient,” says John. “But<br />
we were really excited about what’s happening<br />
at Spicers Creek. Scarborough are creating<br />
a sweet residential and recreational hub,<br />
and we wanted to be a part of it.<br />
“We think the harbor district is on its<br />
way to becoming a vibrant quarter of the<br />
city, its own separate community,” says John.<br />
“We love going to Lucky Bones, the Lobster<br />
House, Saltwater Cafe. The folks at South<br />
Jersey Marina are doing a great job of bringing<br />
events there. I think it’s really coming<br />
together nicely.”<br />
Buying a property at Spicers Creek has a<br />
few perks over and above the views — there’s<br />
the chance to join the members-only Paddle<br />
Club, which offers two swimming pools, and<br />
also rent out The Spicer Room, which boasts<br />
great waterfront views — The Washington<br />
Inn is the caterer of choice at Spicers Creek.<br />
If you’re lucky enough to own a boat,<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Marina has 210 deep water boat<br />
slips. And if you need to stock up on ice, bait,<br />
tackle and other nautical equipment, SeaGear<br />
opened a ship’s store at Cape <strong>May</strong> Marina.<br />
So, yes, it’s a pretty cool development that’s<br />
springing up there.<br />
I spoke with Todd deSatnick, whose real<br />
estate company is partnering with Scarborough<br />
to market Spicers Creek. Todd told<br />
me that the new single family homes will be<br />
approximately 2500 square feet with parking<br />
for four vehicles in each garage. There<br />
are several architect-created designs to lend<br />
variety to the streetscape.<br />
I asked Todd if he thought the Spicer<br />
Creek community would appeal more to<br />
year-round or seasonal occupants. “The<br />
majority of marina district owners are seasonal<br />
residents, but Cape <strong>May</strong> is becoming<br />
more of a year-round community and I<br />
exit zero 130 april-may<br />
think the lifestyle created at Spicers could<br />
be appealing to many who’d like to call<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> home,” he says.<br />
“Our goal is to promote the waterfront<br />
lifestyle — coastal living in Cape <strong>May</strong>. Boating,<br />
fishing, paddleboarding and birding.”<br />
Personally, I’ve always felt that the harbor<br />
district is underutilized and underdeveloped.<br />
So many people drive over the<br />
bridge into Cape <strong>May</strong>, intent on their beach<br />
vacation, without taking much time to consider<br />
the harbor. In fact, for many, their<br />
only experience of it is visiting the Lobster<br />
House or Lucky Bones.<br />
Does Todd feel that Spicers Creek could<br />
have a significant impact on the harbor<br />
district? “I feel that more residents in the<br />
are will create more life on the east side of<br />
town. We hope more people translates into<br />
more action for the businesses throughout<br />
town.”
One Of Our Featured Properties For Sale & Rent<br />
101 Whilldin Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong> Point. Beach front corner property<br />
with water views, four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms.<br />
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exit zero 131 april-may
Property of the Month 209 Yale Avenue, Cape <strong>May</strong> Point<br />
“Get to the Point” — this two-bedroom Cape <strong>May</strong> Point Cottage<br />
is move-in ready and two short blocks to the beach and<br />
lighthouse. Start off with a welcoming sun room, with a wall of<br />
windows allowing the natural sunlight to illuminate the home<br />
and French doors adding privacy if you need another sleeping<br />
space. The homeowners have done an amazing job on the inside<br />
renovations, including new interior painting, removing all carpet<br />
and replacing all flooring, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms<br />
which are both amazing plus all new furnishings.<br />
The pricey renovations give the home a luxurious spa-like feel<br />
— it’s being sold furnished, less the items added by the professional<br />
home stager. The rear of the home has a screened porch<br />
and deck, making those garden barbecues so easy. The back<br />
yard is enclosed, with a detached garage, an outside shower and<br />
a new hot water heater which just needs hooked up to a gas<br />
source.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Point is full of wonderful hidden treasures —you<br />
can bike over to St Peter’s by-the-Sea, the lighthouse, nature<br />
trails, the concrete sunken ship and so many other delightful<br />
spots just waiting for you to discover.<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> Point’s seasonal bird and butterfly migrations are<br />
world renowned, so grab your binoculars and come see this<br />
lovely home! For more information please contact Carol Menz,<br />
Broker at Coastline Realty.<br />
For more information, contact Carol Menz of Coastline Realty on 609-374-0325 or 609-884-5005<br />
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picture of the month By Charles Riter<br />
The iconic porch of the Chalfonte, Cape <strong>May</strong>’s oldest continuously operated hotel, on a balmy summer evening.<br />
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Sol Needles Real Estate<br />
Serving the Cape <strong>May</strong> area for 118 years<br />
for all of your Sales & Rental needs!<br />
« over 350 vacation rentals<br />
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Please visit our website at CBcapemay.com<br />
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512 Washington Street Mall, Cape <strong>May</strong> - 609-884-8428<br />
lynn gleeson/william bezaire, owners
parting thought By Diane Stopyra<br />
occasionally, this magazine runs a series<br />
called My Perfect Day, in which we speak with<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong> locals about their ideal 24-hour<br />
period on the Cape. We kicked off the column<br />
expecting to hear about refreshing cocktails<br />
and indulgent meals, beautiful beach days and<br />
breezy walks through the historic district. And<br />
we did. What we didn’t anticipate hearing over<br />
(and over)? The details of how these people<br />
shower.<br />
We’re not talking soap brand or loofah technique.<br />
It’s not so much what happens during this<br />
daily ritual that matters — it’s where it happens.<br />
On the Cape, cleanliness is next to godliness…<br />
at least when that cleansing happens al fresco.<br />
In other words: If you’re not showering outside<br />
in Cape <strong>May</strong>, you’re likely aspiring to be<br />
— saving up for a Pinterest-worthy, cedar-shakesided,<br />
waterfall-spicketed setup that “embodies<br />
the romance of a summer day.” That’s how The<br />
New York Times described the outdoor shower<br />
experience in a 1993 article titled “Spray from<br />
Heaven.”<br />
“It is the Garden of Eden with soap and a<br />
towel,” writes author William L. Hamilton. “If<br />
it isn’t original sin, it feels like it could be: a<br />
stream of water falling through the air, like the<br />
warm voice of a snake. It’s outdoors when it’s<br />
supposed to be indoors, and one never forgets<br />
that fact. The unlicensed thrill is as fresh as the<br />
water, every time.”<br />
This isn’t just a practical indulgence, efficient<br />
for washing off sand after a long day<br />
of sunbathing or bodysurfing — no trekking<br />
through the house necessary. It’s become a<br />
self-care sanctuary. The experience is sun-dappled<br />
and multi-sensory: Imagine a soft breeze<br />
against your water-warmed skin. The natural<br />
aromatherapy of ocean salt and fresh-cut grass<br />
and grilled burgers in the air. The familiar call of<br />
a gull or the buzzy musical stylings of a nearby<br />
warbler. The tranquil sight of wispy pink clouds<br />
drifting overhead at dusk.<br />
Showering may be the most mundane thing<br />
you’re likely to do in a day. Some would call it<br />
a chore. But take it outside and suddenly the<br />
experience becomes a metaphor for life in<br />
Cape <strong>May</strong>: Simple. Calming. Rejuvenating. It’s<br />
exit zero 136 april-may<br />
also just a touch risque — it allows for, according<br />
to The Boston Globe in a poetic ode to this<br />
summer pleasure, a thrilling yet “mild form of<br />
exhibitionisism.”<br />
But outdoor showering is not all unicorns<br />
and zen. As with all the best things in life, the<br />
experience is, for many of us, a fleeting one.<br />
“Oh, how I plead with the clock to slow<br />
down its ticking,” writes screenwriter Marion<br />
McNabb. “Let me languish here in all this humid<br />
glory! I’m begging! For when the bell tolls and<br />
I must return from my island oasis to urban<br />
reality, that one marvel of modern engineering<br />
— the greatest invention ever made — will<br />
be placed on stand-by until late next spring. I<br />
am of course talking about the wondrous outdoor<br />
shower. Have you ever enjoyed one? It is<br />
a life-affirming experience, at once scintillating,<br />
sensual and serene.”<br />
But for now, at least, we are at the very<br />
beginning of a long, hot, glorious summer awash<br />
with opportunity to, well, wash. Here’s wishing<br />
you many moments under the sun and stars in<br />
your personal Garden of Eden.
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Rejuvenate this Spring<br />
Open Nightly for Dinner<br />
From the relaxing front porch, to the classically comfortable bar and<br />
lounge with live piano music on weekends, The Ebbitt Room is strongly<br />
rooted in a farm-to-table, farm-to-glass dining philosophy featuring the<br />
freshest ingredients from our very own Beach Plum Farm.<br />
Edible Jersey Local Heroes <strong>2019</strong><br />
Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2018<br />
• Dining Room and Lounge Open Nightly<br />
• Live Piano Music Friday & Saturday Nights<br />
• Complimentary Valet Parking<br />
• Happy Hour Monday - Friday 4pm - 6pm<br />
• Early Dining Menu Sunday - Friday $35 +<br />
Reservations 609.884.5700 | EbbittRoom.com | 25 Jackson Street