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smhf-0368-09BJ.indd 1 5/4/09 12:13 PM 966-Carousel Boardwalk Journalr1.indd 1 4/23/09 3:11:31 PM Publisher Jennifer M. Hill Creative Director Ginny Leith Copy Editor Dana Coppola Contributing Writers Brian Hickey Judy DeHaven Jason Smedley Don P. Hurley

Publisher’s photo and cover image by Don P. Hurley P. by Don image cover and photo Publisher’s Regina Schaffer Beverly Bird Chuck Betson Summer is finally here and so is the much anticipated official debut of The Boardwalk Journal The Geator with the Heater and I couldn’t be more excited about both!!! Lloyd D. Levenson, Esq. To kick things off, we have re-assembled the amazing team who brought you our critically Harry Hurley acclaimed ‘pilot magazine’ back in January and we have added some new faces to bring you Michelle Dawn Mooney an even better product… the one you currently hold in your hand. Gary Hill Let me start off by welcoming Regina Schaffer, Beverly Bird, Mark Arbeit, Tina Leonard, Lloyd Tina Leonard Mark Arbeit Levenson, Ken Calemmo and the legendary Jerry Blavat a/k/a The Big Boss with the Hot Sauce to Megan Post The Boardwalk Journal team. I believe you will enjoy what each of them has contributed. Ken Calemmo I want to thank our very talented creative director Ginny Leith for making this magazine look the way that it does. I also want to acknowledge Don Hurley, who not only contributed two amazing The Boardwalk Journaltm is published by Boardwalk Media Group, LLC, ©2009 stories (including this months featured story), but countless photos as well in addition to producing all rights reserved one of our two weekly radio segments. James J. Leonard Jr. Over the last few months I have had the opportunity to meet so many people and help bring President/CEO attention to many civic and charitable organizations in our area that cater to those in need. In 1200 Atlantic Avenue | Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401 particular, I have had the privilege of getting to know and work closely with Denise Rounds and (609) 345-0500 | www.Boardwalkjournal.com Anne Goldberg Neustadter from the Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Assistance Fund and Bill Elliott and [email protected] his amazing family from the HERO Campaign. We look forward to continuing our efforts in assisting these and other organizations. If you have a story to tell or would like to bring attention to a person or organization that is making a difference, or if you have any comments or story ideas, please reach out to us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you. Enjoy the magazine!!!

Photo by Ginny Leith

4 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009

BOR_13377_SummaryDining_BJ_AD.indd 1 4/23/09 9:24:29 AM Photo by Ginny Leith Table ofTOC COntents

4 Publisher’s Column, by Jennifer M. Hill 29 All That Glitters, by Lloyd D. Levenson, Esq.

9 The Raw Feed 30 Attention Buyers: The Time is Now, by Mark Arbeit 12 Don’t Call it a Comeback, by Brian Hickey 34 Best of the Beach, 7805 Bayshore Drive in Margate OPENING JUNE 24 13 Geator Gab, by Jerry Blavat 36 These Gardens Are Anything But Grey, by Tina Leonard TICKETS ON SALE NOW 16 All In, by Harry Hurley Cover feature Experience Cirque Dreams Pandemonia at the 1 8 Fake or Bake, by Michelle Dawn Mooney Good God! ‘The Geator’ Taj. It’s a fantastical fun house of imagination. Hilltop View, by Gary Hill 38 Still Rockin After 50 Years By Don P. Hurley Bring the entire family to this whimsical place 20 Cooper Levenson Photos where inventive acrobatics, extraordinary chaos 44 Last ‘Plan’ Standing, by Judy DeHaven 21 Boardwalk Journal Launch Party Photos and hilarious antics explode on stage and in the air. 50 Longport’s Lone Ranger, by Regina Schaffer 22 Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Run Photos ® 54 WIPEOUT! TheRise and Fall of the Atlantic City Surf, Tickets may be purchased at the Trump Taj Mahal Box 23 On the Scene by Chuck Betson Offi ce, all locations, ticketmaster.com or charged by phone at 1-800-736-1420. 21 Laura Bush at the Stainton Society, by Don P. Hurley 58 In a Class Itself, by Beverly Bird

24 Marketing on Montpelier Avenue, by Megan Post 61 Bet You Didn’t Know, by Ken Calemmo BOOK YOUR ROOM AND TICKET PACKAGE AT TRUMPTAJ.COM.

Subject to change or cancellation at management’s discretion. 1-800-825-8888 • WWW.THENEWTAJ.COM 6 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 Serving the Freshest, Finest Seafood the raw feed

When the Tropicana Hotel and Casino, one of the Boardwalk’s largest and most attractive properties, was listed for sale in December 2007, it was expected to sell for close to $1 billion. Eighteen months later, as the nation is suffering what some analysts have described as an “economic 9/11,” the expected sale price for the Tropicana has plummeted to a paltry $200 million. Enter 73-year-old billionaire investor Carl Icahn, who bought the now-defunct Sands under similar circumstances in 2000 for an even paltrier $65 million and sold it in 2006 to Pinnacle Entertainment Inc. for $270 million. Industry sources have labeled Icahn as the favorite to snatch up the Trop at a discounted rate of almost 80% off. It appears that while Donald Trump may have authored “The Art of the Deal,” Icahn has mastered it…

The recent indictment against former Atlantic City councilwoman Cassandra McCall-Clark is the first, but not likely the last, in what appears to be the culmination of an ever-expanding corruption probe that is sending shockwaves through City Hall. The probe, which originated from an investigation into the allocation of federal grant money through the Community Development Block Grant Program, also appears to be focusing on corruption within the city’s Special Improvement District dating back to 1999. Many former and current city officials, including Mayor Lorenzo Langford and City Council President William “Speedy” Marsh, have been subpoenaed to appear before a state Grand Jury in Trenton…

The second annual “Hurley in the Morning” Golf Open will take place Friday, June 19, at the Mays Landing Golf and Country Club. Last year’s inaugural event allowed Harry Hurley to distribute $20,000 to three area charities. This year, Hurley expects to double that figure, Award Winning Seafood with the proceeds going to The G. Larry James Legacy Fund, The John R. Elliot HERO Campaign, The F.A.C.E.S. Autism Support Network of Atlantic County and the Dean Randazzo Cancer Fund. The honorary tournament chairperson is Congressman Frank LoBiondo and the tournament is being presented by Marty and Sheila O’Boyle, of Longport. For more information on how to participate or contribute, please visit www.HarryHurley.com…

Longtime Press of Atlantic City executive editor Paul Merkoski will officially retire from the newspaper business June 26 to spend more time with his family, his grandchildren in particular.

PHILLIPSSEAFOOD.COM Merkoski began his career with The Press in 1970. His successor has not yet been named.

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Best buy on the beach. $199,000 Don’t Call it a Comeback Geator Gab INSURANCE AGENCIES, INC. By Jerry Blavat by Brian Hickey ItalIan GrIlle Member agencies serving Once again, it is my great pleasure to say Atlantic County since 1879 greetings and salutations. As you know, we’ve saving breaks, including a college student been a part of this community for a very long CJ Adams Company whose dog alerted him to call 911 and time. And now it’s my pleasure to be able to Insurance, Inc. a physical therapist who tricked me into recreate for you the magic that has always been a part of this area. walking, here I am. Siracusa-Kaufmann Here it is, Memorial Day weekend, the official theme will be “Back in the Day,” with college Insurance LLC The driver? He or she hasn’t been caught. start of a new summer season. But you and I bands, special drink prices and guest bartenders Me? It was a lot to go through, but go have been together for a long time. I’m talking from all over the area. remember the moment about Memories in Margate, the dances at Steel Steelman, Graves through it, I did. Except for the scar atop So, now that you have the routine for the & Waters, Inc. vividly. Actually, it’s one Pier, the Ritz Convention Center, the Jefferson summer months, let’s talk about the real stars: of the last things I recall my head through which they removed, Hotel–where in 1962 you saw Little Stevie you, the folks who make up the local scene. All of us at Jo Jo’s extend a and later replaced, two pieces of my skull, Wonder for the first time–the Harlem Club, the There’s attorney Steve Hankin, a native of the Ridge Insurance Agency, Inc. about the hours just Hialeah, the 500 and so many more places that warm welcome to you and I’m as good as new, which is either very area, along with my all-time favorite attorney before I almost died. have been a part of the shore – Tony Mart’s in Eddie Jacobs. Then there’s our summer resident, your family. It brings our Thibault-Sames good or very bad for you. Somers Point, Dunes Till Dawn and the Elbow It was the day after Carl Poplar, and Chuck Puerto, Jr., who are also family great joy to introduce Insurance Agency, LLC Room, which is now Memories. So many of the a part of the Memories fabric. our style of cooking. We Thanksgiving. I hopped an eastbound train Do you like reading a writer’s explanation people and the faces from yesterday continue How about Willie Jacovini and his family, along of why he unconditionally loves Atlantic to be part of this area today and I will, once a believe that fresh quality Edgewood Associates, Inc. in Philly, crossed the Ben Franklin Bridge with Chris and the folks from Barrels? And all of month, let you know about these folks and the products, prepared in a simple and met up with old friends in my New City despite its blemishes? One who the Longport folks – the O’Learys, the Canusos, events that will be happening at the shore. but unique way, will please d Jersey hometown of Westmont. Sitting doesn’t let a bum economy blind him the Nasutis, Richard and Lois Basciano, Lou to the promise of a place where the locals When it comes to Memories, for the past 37 Katz. The Lipson’s, Herb and his family, from everyone’s palate. South Jersey Coastal behind a pint of Harp’s, the red light on years as of this season, we’ve seen many folks reflexively defend their turf against Philly Magazine. John and Beth Turchi. Dave Risk Specialists my Blackberry notified me of an e-mail. enter through our doors, from the greats to the and Alexandra Farber from Margate. These are Cooking It was Don Hurley’s interview with ignorant outsiders who claim its better near greats, the little to the big. The success of just some of the local folks. Personal Insurance: Memories in Margate has always been due to the days are in the past? The kind of guy who There’s also Charlie Arnao, Gary Barbera and Homeowners • Flood Tony Bennett for the pilot issue of this folks who enjoy the music, the magic and the is an art! family, Pete & Lisa Ciarrocchi from Chickie & Buon Appetito Automobile • Motorcycle Boat magazine. It was a good read, but I put doesn’t need a map to find the quickest camaraderie all summer long. From all walks of Pete’s, the folks from the Margate Mariner, Steve La Famiglia Giaccone PWC • RV’s route from Back Maryland to Chelsea life you’ve come and along with you, people like down the Blackberry. I was off the clock & Cookie’s and George from the Aramingo Frankie Valli, Sammy, Jilly Rizzo, Don Rickles, Personal Umbrellas and not exactly in a position to edit. I told Heights and appreciates old-school Diner. These are a few of the guys and gals we Chuck Berry, Little Anthony and so many more We have two locations Skee Ball machines and the Irish Pub? can count on to make the summer season at Business Insurance: myself I’d get to it in the morning. also have been a part of the magic. to serve you: Workers Compensation Well, you’ll likely consider my recovery Memories in Margate a hit. As we begin this summer season, we’ll report What I didn’t know was that “the morning” And where would we be without our Philly Liability • Umbrella a good thing. on the old friends and the newcomers who not 2 E Black Horse Pike wouldn’t come until I woke up from a politicians – Bob Brady, Frank DiCicco, Anne Professional • Property only come to Memories in Margate, but who Pleasantville, NJ 08232 Nine years ago, I grudgingly left The Press Verna and Larry Farnese? And the “Clap Employment Practices coma eight days later. And that it would will be joining us at other venues down here at (609) 646-8332 your hands, clap your hands” guys and gals – of Atlantic City for a pair of gigs in Philly, the shore. On Sunday afternoons, I’ll be seeing take a few weeks until I could even read Adrian, Chris, Gina, Charlotte & Ray? We’ll be you in Sea Isle City at La Costa Lounge for the 6106 Black Horse Pike d full sentences. Not exactly prime position a long time to cope with missing a place reporting to you about these folks – and maybe hottest jam sessions from 4 to 8 p.m. and I’ll Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08234 Home Office so badly that you keep telling yourself, about you, too – all through the summer season, for a person who gets paid for writing and be in Wildwood every Thursday, starting the right here in the Geator Gab. (609) 641-8332 332 Tilton Rd. editing, especially one that’s up against “Oh, I’ll work in A.C. again.” weekend of July 4, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Northfield, NJ 08225 So, until we meet again next month, remember deadline as editor of a new magazine’s Fortunately for me, and thanks to a And of course, we’ll kick off our summer season to keep on rocking, ‘cause you only rock once. Berlin Branch inaugural issue. collection of talented people who toiled at Memories in Margate on Friday, Saturday 3 Harker Ave. and Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. If Forgive me if I’m telling you something to put out that inaugural issue while I was you can’t be there, you can still hear the music Berlin, NJ 08009 You can hear the Geator live from Memories you already know, but when I was walking trapped in a hospital bed, that’s how it live throughout the summer, Memorial Day in Margate Fridays and Saturdays, 9 p.m. through Labor Day, on KOOL 98.3 Fridays and back to the train station in Collingswood worked out. to 2 a.m. on WTKU 98.3 FM. For more info For information or a no Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Jerry’s appearance and radio schedule, to catch a Philly-bound train, a car leveled obligation rate quote contact: I couldn’t be more psyched to have the We’re also throwing in something different go to www.geator.net me. I should have been killed on the spot chance to reintroduce myself to every last this year: Thursday nights at Memories the (609) 646-1000 but thanks to a collection of lucky life- one of you. 12 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 13 A Full Service Litigation Firm

Criminal Law Family Law Municipal Court/Traffic Matters Divorce DWI/DUI Child Custody/Support Juvenile Offenses Domestic Violence/Restraining Orders Probation/Parole Violations Accidents & Personal Injury Expungements Workers Compensation Appeals/Post Conviction Relief Administrative Law/Disciplinary Matters Casino Licensing Real Estate/Contracts Immigration/Deportation Wills www.LeonardLawGroup.com (609) 345-5800 All In By Harry Hurley Langford and Small Moving Toward June Primary in a Race That Has Been Anything But Predictable

The race for mayor of Atlantic City has power in Atlantic City. He could make Almost everyone believed the political fix hit a fever pitch. Incumbent Mayor the case for choosing either Langford was in. However, a day later, without even Lorenzo Langford has won several key or Small. providing the customary professional battles along the way. Primary Election When this all began several months ago, courtesy to McDevitt, Cryan announced Day is less than two weeks away and it’s the local, county and state Democratic that he would not break the tie and instead almost certain that the one who wins this leaders all wanted Small, not Langford, handed the situation over to D’Arcy. race will be the mayor of Atlantic City for to be their formally endorsed candidate. D’Arcy also refused to hand the the next four years. Langford had other ideas. He publicly endorsement to Small. He instead Langford beat out his rival, Councilman went about stating how little this ordered a new election to break the tie. Marty Small, for the coveted Official endorsement meant to him. “I’ve won This time, Langford won the election by Democratic Party endorsement. on and off the line in the past,” said a vote of 27-24. It was a stunning victory

This brings with it preferential ballot Langford. “Sure, I’d like to have it, but, for Langford and a campaign-crushing Hurley P. by Don Photos placement and the ability to raise more I’m not worried either way.” He made it defeat for Small. But Small’s bad news money by virtue of being the Party’s seem like no big deal. was not yet over. An animated Mayor Lorenzo Langford addresses the Atlantic City Democratic Committee as a dejected Marty Small looks on. chosen candidate. However, privately, Langford courted After winning the endorsement, Its significance can not be overstated. Atlantic City Democratic Committee Langford dropped one of his three and professional reputations and appear All that is left now is the political The key to a Small victory is to excite the A high degree of credibility comes members for their votes. He wanted the City Council running mates, Fareed unwilling to sully them for political gain. endgame. For Small to win, he will have Atlantic City electorate and make the case with this endorsement. A newcomer endorsement much more then he let on Abdullah, from his ticket. This left They realize that you don’t have to tear to achieve an unprecedented get-out-the- for change. Small also must overcome the to the city stage, Councilman Small to the public. In the end, his strategy D’Arcy with another critical decision. down your opponent in order to build vote effort. The old theory of “the enemy reality of his location on the ballot with desperately needed this endorsement. paid off. D’Arcy awarded the preferential spot on up yourself. So far, it has been an issue- of my enemy is my friend” is Small’s best less than a full slate of running mates. He came extremely close to winning the the ballot to incumbent Councilman at oriented campaign, centered on youth chance for staging the upset. Small thought he had the endorsement My prediction? Langford will win re- endorsement sweepstakes. Large George Tibbitt. vs. experience. in the bag, as did many others. The The key to a Langford victory is to remind election by a comfortable margin and The first election of the Atlantic City 24-24 tie was devastating to Small, but This was great news for Tibbitt, but This also has proven to be a decided the voting public of the many things he keep his word that this will be his last Democratic Committee ended in a 24-24 it still didn’t change the fact that, while more terrible news for Small, as Tibbitt disadvantage for Small. The public readily did to improve city government during term as mayor of Atlantic City. tie between Langford and Small. was a previously announced running a tie usually goes to the champ, Small accepts experience. They know Langford his first term in office. For the next three weeks, a political had the entire Democratic political mate on Small’s ticket. So, although has it. This makes Small’s campaign even drama unfolded, reaching all the way to apparatus on his side. Tibbitt is running with Small, he will be more challenging as he tries to convince placed directly under Langford’s name the state Democratic Party Chairman’s Many political promises had been made Atlantic City voters that the city needs and New Jersey Governor’s offices. on the ballot, which may be confusing “Small Change.” Harry Hurley is Vice President of to Small. But, as almost everyone who for voters. Programming & Operations for WIBG In the end, with Gov. Jon S. Corzine studies politics knows, there is no such He has to demonstrate that he has enough Unfortunately, the bad news for Small 1020 AM Radio and Wibbage Radio 94.3 losing in all the polls to former United thing as a sure thing. In this dirty game, of the right experience to lead Atlantic FM. He hosts the daily talk radio program, States Attorney Christopher J. Christie, promises are made to be broken. just kept coming. One day later, another City during these very difficult economic “Hurley in the Morning,” weekdays from of his running mates, Bert Lopez, also there was no way that Gov. Corzine would Still, he was sure they would break the times. His message is that youth and 7 to 11:00 a.m. on WIBG 1020 AM. quit the race. Harry hosts various programs for local take away the Party Line endorsement tie in his favor. Atlantic City Democratic energy is better right now for Atlantic from a sitting African-American The good news is that neither the City than Langford’s experience. television and is the editor and publisher Chairman Bob McDevitt wrote an of his news and information website, Mayor (Langford). eloquent, detailed memorandum of Langford nor Small campaigns have In times such as this, voters almost always gone dirty. There’s been way too much www.HarryHurley.com. Harry is also the So, the state punted it back to Atlantic understanding, asking state Democratic choose experience over youth. Langford, Political Editor and a feature columnist County Democratic Party Chairman Party Chairman Joseph Cryan to award of that in Atlantic City in the past. To 53, has the practical executive branch for The Boardwalk Journal. You can send Pat D’Arcy. D’Arcy holds a lot of political Small the endorsement. their credit, they are both good men experience that Small, 34, lacks. an e-mail to [email protected]. who take great pride in their personal

16 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 17 By Michelle Dawn Mooney Bacharach Fake or Bake? Newsanchor / WMGM TV40 Physical Therapy I am a fake. from the bus stop. Alas, my Irish roots impeded whose brother died of skin cancer and my friend No, not in my chances of becoming the Banana Boat who had a cancerous growth removed from has the best care. the way of a poster girl and while my mom dutifully gave his nose. The more stories I heard, the more recent headline speeches about how milky white skin was once I realized the desirable glow just wasn’t worth And we’ll prove it. grabber who considered a sign of great beauty and wealth, all the danger, especially since my fair skin put me allegedly made off with millions of dollars I heard was, “Blah, blah, blah.” in the highest risk group. At Bacharach Physical Therapy, we know you’re not from unsuspecting victims, but in a way that Ever since I was a baby, I was slathered with According to the Centers for Disease Control just a number. You’re a person. That’s why we offer: will hopefully keep me from becoming one of sunscreen. As a teen, while my friends would and Prevention, 65% to 90% of melanoma cases • Personalized recovery plans more than 8,000 people who die each year from catch some rays in their backyards, at my are caused by ultraviolet light or sunlight. Of • Customizable care the most common form of cancer here in the house “lying out” wasn’t allowed. Still, I was the more than 50,000 diagnosed cases each year • Convenient, fl exible appointment times United States: melanoma. so desperate to get any color (even pink), that here in the U.S., about 8,000 are fatal. Reducing • 15 locations in South Jersey • State-of-the-art facilities I’d slick my legs with vegetable oil and sit out those statistics is not about boycotting the Yes, I know, summer’s here. Shoulders, knees • Specialty certifi cations and toes, once hidden under layers of fleece for 20 minutes after school before anyone got beach, but about making smart decisions. So don’t settle for less than the best care. and wool, are now exposed for all to see. Our home. Surprisingly, or not so surprisingly, it Using sunscreen everyday will significantly didn’t work. Let Bacharach’s friendly, experienced staff get society embraces being tan. I’ll be the first to lower your risk. There are also a number of great you back to what’s important to you, the right way. admit I love having a bit of color and I’ve taken At 18, when I started doing pageants, self-tanners out on the market that I promise drastic measures to get that summer glow. I managed to talk my mom into letting me go to won’t make you look like you’ve been eating too Maybe it stemmed from the “Casper” nickname the tanning bed for the swimsuit competition. many carrots, and as far as the tanning salon… in school or being told that I could blind I went 2 or 3 times, and then I saw the story I actually ventured back. This time I opted for about a fair-skinned 20-year-old college student the airbrush tan over the bed, and you know someone with the sight of my “winter white” 2405 AtlA ntic Avenue legs, but I always envied my olive-skinned who had only one bad burn and ended up with what? I haven’t met one person who didn’t think Back to Life.™ melanoma. Then, there was my mother’s friend, it was the real deal. See, not bad for a fake. AtlA ntic c ity, n J i 609.345.0092 friends who could seemingly tan walking home www.docksoysterhouse.com

FRee PARKinG

By Gary Hill BACH-5104_5x4.875_PhysicalTherapyAd.indd 1 4/30/09 9:40 AM Hilltop View Community Relations (MBCA)

Summer 2009 is almost cost-effective changes in their properties, such as specialty lunch days to help increase their night here – YEAH! I know closing some restaurants during the week, offering and weekend business. most of you can’t wait mid-week specials and streamlining the way they do All of these little things help keep loyal customers for the beautiful sunny business by staying focused on the bigger picture. and perhaps attract new ones so when the Stockton College days, to walk on the Small businesses also are trying new things and economy does rebound these businesses already famous Boardwalk, stroll new philosophies to get through. For example, a have a strong customer base. in Atlantic City on the beach, hit the video production company in Atlantic City called waves, go to a beach bar or have lunch outside at It also would help if Atlantic City had more at the corner of Pacific Avenue & Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd. 11th Floor Creative Group recommends that marketing dollars to help promote all of our a café or restaurant. These are the things that make their clients invest in their brand recognition and living in Atlantic City great. You can go to a great assets, especially the Atlantic City Convention development at this critical time. Clients can make and Visitors Authority (ACCVA). We need to Venue for: concert (like Jimmy Buffet, Aug. 23 at Boardwalk more of an impact on potential new customers this Hall), see the Air Show on Aug. 19, or do some pressure our city and state leaders to fight to keep Graduate and Undergraduate Courses way and therefore increase their market share. When more of our money here in South Jersey to help great shopping at The Walk or the Pier at Caesars. the economy makes its rebound, these businesses Professional Development, Training & Continuing Education Maybe you’re looking forward to visiting Historic with promotion and marketing in the critical will be in a prime position while the others are trying summer season. Gardner’s Basin, the Atlantic City Aquarium, to regroup and relaunch their marketing efforts. Conferences, Meetings & Special Events Absecon Lighthouse and Lucy the Elephant. Yes, 11th Floor Creative Group encourages their clients Here at the Metropolitan Business and Citizens Community Outreach summertime is almost here, and, boy, do we all to invest in the future now, so they eventually will be Association, a non- profit civic/business need it! competing against a diminished field as businesses organization in existence for 19 years, we salute Home of the: But, we need more than just great weather here that did not take the extra steps to continue their all of our businesses, large and small, and hope Small Business Development Center at the shore. We need new ideas to keep Atlantic marketing or promotional plans try to get things we all have a great and healthy summer season. City business thriving during this horrible back off the ground. Stockton Institute for Gaming Management recession period. Greater Atlantic City Region Tourism Council Independent restaurants, such as The Palm, now For more information about Our casino industry has been affected, and since offer great wine and dinner specials midweek, New Jersey Center for Hospitality & Tourism Research this is the goose that lays all the golden eggs for and the famous Knife and Fork Restaurant has MBCA, visit www.mbca.com New Jersey, we all – including the media – need to developed some unique wine-tasting nights and be a little more optimistic and positive about our Alexander C. Marino, Director of Operations AtlA ntic & PA ciF ic Avenues number one industry. AtlA ntic c ity, n J • 609-344-1133 Phone: 609-347-2160 • E-mail: [email protected] www.knifeandforkinn.com The casinos are trying to adjust in these trying Web: www.stockton.edu/carnegie • Address: 35 S. Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd. times like the rest of us. They have been making DINNER NIGHTLY • FRIDAY LUNCH • VALET PARKING

18 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 19 All photos on this page by Roger Mason Cooper Levenson on the local, national and international stage. The Press of Atlantic City salutes and congratulates the recipient of the 2006 B AILEY AWARD C ooper Leve Atto nson rneys At Law The Bailey Award, p resented by The Rona Kaplan, Esq. accepts the Press of Atlant Accepting the award from AC Press Publisher Keith Dawn honor ic City, Mentor of the Year Award from s businesses that on behalf of the firm are (l to r) Robert Salad, Esq., make exceptional the Boys and Girls Club of contribut Kenneth Wolfe, Esq., Keith Dawn, Lloyd D. Levenson, Esq., ions to their communities. Atlantic City. Kenneth Calemmo and Michael Jacobson, Esq. The Bailey Award is named for the George Baile y character in Frank Capr a’s “It’s A Wonde rful Life,” a mov ie about a businessman Keynote Speaker Senator Gormley addressing the crowd who makes a positive diff erence in the liv es of the peop le of his town.

CEO Lloyd D. Levenson, served as the Founded over 50 years ago in Atlantic City, Cooper 2009 Stockton College Scholarship Gala Levenson has since grown to over 70 attorneys with 8 Among the runners raising money for the offices in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Shirley Mae Foundation are (l to r) COO Chairman. Pictured (l to r) Liane Levenson, Nevada. It is a full service gaming, business & Ken Calemmo, Lynne Kaufman, Esq., Art Garfunkel, the evening’s featured Trina and Joe McSorley. entertainer, and Lloyd D. Levenson. litigation practice that supports businesses all over the region…and the globe in casino law, tax & business, real estate, land use, environmental, insurance defense, employment law, workers’ compensation and Gerry Gormley, The Honorable Michael A. Donio Cooper Levenson CEO Lloyd Levenson, local businessman commercial litigation. and TV 40 Anchorwoman Michelle Dawn Mooney Frank Formica and philanthropist Gary Hill

The firm is a co-producer of the East Coast Gaming Congress, an annual gathering of the casino industry’s top leaders, gaming analysts, public officials and regulators. Again in 2009, Governor Jon S. Corzine was the Keynote Speaker. Stockton College President Dr. Herman Saatkampf, Don P. Hurley, Jennifer Hill, Michelle Dawn Mooney, James Leonard Jr. Jennifer Hill, Harry Hurley, Beverly Bird and local legend Ed Gurwicz and Miss New Jersey 2008 Ashley Fairfield On the Scene

stablished in August Shirley Mae founders Roy Goldberg and his sister Anne Goldberg Neustadter 2000, the Shirley EMae Breast Cancer Harrah’s Entertainment Regional President Assistance Fund began with Dan Nita with Former First Lady Laura Bush and his wife Nicole at the 20th Annual Stainton a gift from Roy Goldberg, Society Brunch held at Bally’s Park Place Atlantic City businessman and philanthropist and his sister Anne, in honor of their Linwood’s Jim and Tina Leonard at the mother, Shirley Mae Goldberg, MBCA Gala held at the Trump Taj Mahal a breast cancer survivor. The 9th Annual Run which took place on Saturday, May 9th was tremendous success. To donate to this very worthy cause please go to: www.shirleymaefund.org and click on the “donate” link.

First Lady Nynell Langford, the Honorable Lorenzo T. Langford and Bill Elliott, Chairman NBC TV 40’s of the HERO Campaign at the MBCA Gala event Teresa Berry

Atlantic County Sheriff Frank Balles and Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Chris Christie at Formica Bros. Bakery and Cafe in Northfield

All photos on this page by Ginny Leith consistently that she just wanted to be administration, a nation and the world. American people and their ability to help Former First Lady Laura Bush Laura Bush and continue to establish her September 11, 2001, changed everything, others while in the midst of such tragedy. own identity as first lady. she said in her speech. She also remembered her feelings as she Displays Grace & Charm At 20th Anniversary Gathering of Stainton Society In A.C. Bush, an educator and a librarian, was The challenges facing the country at watched her husband walk out to the committed to a philosophy that every child that time were believed to be domestic mound at Yankee Stadium in New York Following a video tribute to Laura Bush’s needs to have the ability to read and that problems. There was no threat by the Soviet City to reassure the American people that eight years in the White House and her literacy is the cornerstone to the fate of Union anymore, so many of the other we would go on with our lives and that we accomplishments as first lady, President any democracy. “I know that books have threats around the world seemed well- should not be afraid or give in to these acts Guitierrez introduced the former first lady the power, not just to move people as checked, the former first lady explained. of terrorism. to the thunderous applause of a standing individuals, but to shape our journey as a Global terrorism had not yet emerged. crowd of enthusiastic members of the As Bush ended her speech, she described Stainton Society. nation,” she said. But the attacks upon the World Trade the greatest honor of her tenure as first Bush greeted the audience and expressed She referred to the novels Uncle Tom’s Center and the United States Pentagon lady: the feeling of admiration toward her pleasure at being in Atlantic City Cabin and To Kill a Mockingbird as proved to our citizens that while we were the citizens of this country as individuals to recognize philanthropy and the fine significant examples of the power of the not at war with the terrorists, they were at stood up to make a difference in the face of work of the Stainton Society in decades written word. Reading is not just a cause war with us and they proved it by killing challenges and danger while never losing of commitment to reaching out and for Laura Bush. It is a passion and the thousands of our citizens and intending to pride in this great nation. That is what helping others. one thing she knows can open the world harm many more, as well as attacking the living in the United States is all about. for everyone. free market system of the world. She spoke of what retirement was like, and reflected on the last two terms in the Her poise and ease at the podium were She described the horror of watching the White House in Washington, D.C. apparent as she began to shift to a more planes strike and the towers of the World “It’s all come down to this,” Bush said, serious topic. Bush referred to the last eight Trade Center collapse one by one. She as she plopped a Laura Bush bobble- years as a “transformational period” for recalled the heroic actions of so many head doll down on the podium, to the our nation, which led her to the key event citizens and first responders on that By Don P. Hurley amusement of the crowd. The bobble- that would alter the course of a political day. Bush admired the goodness of the Entertainment Director head was purchased by a friend, Bush said, in a gift shop at Constitution Square in Philadelphia. On May 3, the Stainton Society held its Laura Bush since leaving the White House 20th Anniversary Brunch with 800 people on Jan. 20, following the end of President “It was in the discount clearance shelf,” in attendance – the largest gathering in the George W. Bush’s two terms in office. Mrs. Bush added, to loud applause and group’s history. It seemed that everywhere you looked laughter. “But actually, I’m glad to have it because when you live in the White The Stainton Society is the largest there was an agent of the United States House, when you’re a bobble-head inside fundraising organization in the Foundation Secret Service, charged with the duty of protecting presidents and members of the of a bubble, reality can get a little warped. family and remains a critical part of Shore first family. Yet there was a calm and serene Sometimes you have to work hard just to Memorial’s overall development effort. In feeling at the same time. recognize yourself.” the spirit of Howard Stainton’s humble One case matters ... yours. philanthropy, the Stainton Society was The event was opened by a stirring Bush good-naturedly poked fun at founded in 1989 to allow individuals, speech on the meaning of the U.S. flag to the tabloid news agencies with wild Areas of Practice a soundtrack of America the Beautiful, families and businesses to pledge annual recollections of some of the more followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, Personal Injury Work Injuries Family Law/Divorce Medical Malpractice support to Shore Memorial through outrageous headlines and covers of led by Jeremy Komasz, LCDR of the newspapers and magazines that comically Nursing Home Abuse Auto Accidents Real Estate Commercial Litigation membership. Since then, the Society has United States Navy. There was hardly told her things even she didn’t know about grown to more than 600 members and a dry eye in the room following this DWI/Traffic Tickets Class Actions has contributed more than $10 million moving beginning. herself and her family. for important projects and programs, The former first lady also outlined the Two of the firm’s partners are certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as The master of ceremonies for the event, Civil Trial Attorneys. Less than 2% of NJ Attorneys carry this distinction. including new medical technology. William Elliott, who serves as the election challenge of 2000 that ended in Se habla Español the United States Supreme Court. The event was held at Bally’s Park Place executive director of the Shore Memorial main oFFiCE Casino and former First Lady Laura Bush Health Foundation, introduced Mr. Albert Bush said that she had been asked many Guitierrez, president and CEO of Shore aTLanTiC CiTy Egg Harbor Twp TomS rivEr was the featured speaker. This was the times with what other first lady she would 3123 atlantic avenue 3120 Fire road, Suite 100 204 Court House Lane first speech or public presentation by Memorial Hospital. most like to be compared. She answered 609.345.9200 609.641.6200 732.349.9666 www.darcyjohnsonday.com 24 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 Gerber, a first-rate account Treating each client services staff and a talented like a true celebrity, Marketing on Montpelier Avenue creative team make up the this local agency stops by Megan Post agency’s Atlantic City office. at nothing to exceed With backgrounds including expectations. National entertainment, banking, sports corporations, such as But located just off the California and South Jersey, the Harrah’s Entertainment, When it and gaming, it is no surprise that Atlantic City Boardwalk is staff’s diversity brings an always- The Palm Restaurant, this local agency packs a big Masterpiece Advertising, fresh insight. One member of Penn National Gaming, punch in the world of marketing. a full-service advertising, Masterpiece who feels right Royal Caribbean comes to marketing and public at home with their Madison Masterpiece’s top-name and Foxwoods, enlist the services of Phyllis Lacca, Jennifer DiTulio and Donald Trump relations firm right here Avenue appeal is Director contacts match their talent Masterpiece Advertising. during his birthday celebration at Trump Taj Mahal. in our own backyard. of Account Services Regina pool. They operate alongside A creative group of Gerber. She joined Masterpiece the biggest names in the nation. Many of the agency’s staff which is vital when working forward thinkers, after working with the Oxygen From dinners with Vice President got their start in the gaming with a brand like Harrah’s,” said Masterpiece specializes in Network in New York City. She Joe Biden to special events with industry, which benefits the LuAnn Fetcho, Vice President an array of services, ranging says Masterpiece makes her Donald Trump, Masterpiece extensive list of casino clients. of Marketing for Harrah’s fancy from elaborate direct mail feel as if she never left the works with countless celebrities, With out-of-state competition Entertainment Atlantic City marketing campaigns to upscale Big Apple. athletes, politicians and looming over Atlantic City, state Operations. “Masterpiece’s celebrity events. dignitaries across the country. gaming taxes and expanding campaigns just blow me away. casino markets, the industry is Each creative execution “Whether meeting with “Everyone wants to be part of always seeking proactive ways resonates with targeted clients or stopping in for a to engage consumers. Therefore, agencies, Everyone the fun and excitement, which is player segments and results visit, people always comment Masterpiece gets creative what makes events so successful in successful promotions.” “wants to be so their clients get results. on how they feel like they if marketed properly. There is so are on Madison Avenue right much work behind the scenes. Casino promotions, outdoor Founded in 1994 primarily here on Montpelier Avenue,” part of the fun most people It takes a lot of hours,” Lacca billboards and in-house signage as an advertising agency, President Phyllis Lacca and excitement, said. “We have organized a must have synergy and a Masterpiece has evolved explains. “We have clients variety of special events with unique appeal to be effective. with the trends in the industry all over the country and which is what to become a full-service

think first of many celebrities and the buzz Using cutting-edge technology,

contacts all over the world makes events begins with pubic relations.” provocative imagery and strong marketing communications but we have chosen Atlantic copy, Masterpiece develops firm. They have integrated their “ City as our home base.” so successful Over the years, Lacca and her eye-catching New York City. team have launched Saturday advertising that A women’s business if marketed Night Live slots at Borgata drives casino enterprise led by Lacca, the with Dan Akroyd, worked with revenue. They boutique agency with big properly. Playboy on multiple events and understand the ideas operates in the heart organized several of Donald importance of return on of Atlantic City on the values “Having worked with some Trump’s birthday celebrations. investment and of providing a premier product big New York agencies, it is Most recently, the agency ensure that using innovative, thoughtful obvious that Masterpiece worked in Palm Springs, Calif., for their clients’ and creative marketing. ranks as one of the most two celebrity golf outings. The objectives are Masterpiece offers more than highly regarded agencies in guest list included top athletes, achieved. 20 years of experience with the world,” Gerber said. “With such as Michael Strahan, John specialization in the casino, a remarkable client list and “Masterpiece Elway, Mario Lemieux, LaDainian hotel and resort industries. extraordinary staff, we have understands Tomlinson, Charles Barkley, everything a big city agency casino Comprised of a talented staff Masterpiece Media Relations Manager Beth Joseph, Jason Kidd and Ozzie Smith. marketing, from Philadelphia, New York, has to offer and then some.” Jennifer DiTulio, Phyllis Lacca and actress Nicole Masterpiece President Phyllis Lacca Murphy enjoy the Red Carpet party during a celebrity and United States Vice President Joe Biden. golf weekend in Palm Springs, California.

26 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 27 services to include campaigns benefit from the agency’s across all media, from print philanthropic contributions. to broadcast and online. Lacca and her team also ALL THAT GLITTERS are currently working with By Lloyd D. Levenson, Esq. The Internet has played a large Caroline and Sidney Kimmel role in the transformation of the to host the Inaugural Ball to The Boardwalk in marketing industry. People have polish the hidden gem that is Atlantic runs through Atlantic County. Just this benefit the Kimmel Cancer Atlantic City cuts a City,Atlantic County, New Jersey. month, the College raised over access to products 24 hours a Center on June 11, 2009, at swath of weathered $750,000 in scholarship funds. This day, placing extra emphasis on Jefferson in Philadelphia. grey wood through a We have miles of sugar fine beaches continued expansion in the face of Captain Chris Tortu is your host for what the demand for Web and e-mail glittering panorama: with clean blue-green waves far pessimism elsewhere underscores our is guaranteed to be a fantastic experience campaigns. Combined with With New York-style flair, on one side, the removed from industry and pollutants. community’s recognition of true value, because we guarantee fun! Commissioned the power of personalization cunning casino experience and casinos; soaring Dolphin fins arc 50 yards off the of assuring education to our young in June, 2007, the ‘HRDWORK’ is a custom and interactivity, the Internet incredible spirit, Masterpiece structures of glitz boardwalk. Surfers, swimmers and people, of banking on the future. 34’ SeaVee Center Console with state of the and incandescence; art electronics which includes the latest has created a demand for is a prestigious agency with skiers challenge the waves. The Sirius Satellite Real Time Weather and Sea marketing to always be fresh proven success. If you are man made palaces that offer the promise daytime sky is decorated by the wings We have so many riches here that can’t be Surface Temperature images out to 1500 and appealing. This continually looking for outstanding public of gold. On the other side is the sea; an of gulls and the colors of sails and kites. spent, that don’t depend on a temporal miles. Triple 275 Mercury engines move expanding media seamlessly relations or a marketing infinite cadence of chop and sheen; a God The night sky is still profound and drop in financing. Atlantic County and made wonder that offers the promise of ‘HRDWORK’ through the water to get you merges traditional marketing campaign, look no further than black, pricked by the brilliance of a Atlantic City are still full of potential. wherever you’re going in a hurry!! ablution. For the 30 some years of million stars. We stop our cars to let The casinos will survive; already the first with new age technology. Masterpiece Advertising. gaming in Atlantic City, we have come to turtles cross our causeways, and our breaths of Spring and invigorating ocean Keeping up with the most see the success of the casinos outshine the marshes teem with life unseen below breezes have enticed visitors back to the cutting-edge technology and appeal of the ocean. The casinos have the spindle legs and elegant feathers of Boardwalk. To let this economy darken programs puts the agency a i brought wealth and excitement to a city Great Blue herons and egrets. our vision is to be blinded by all that step ahead. Masterpiece’s For more information that once was famous for sand and glitters; sometimes we have to retrench graphic designers and swimming, but had become faded and On the other side is the sea; and revalue what we have in order to about Masterpiece, visit flash programmers offer an worn. High rollers are helicoptered in for an infinite cadence of chop seize the real golden opportunities. masterpieceadvertising.com the experience of high stakes risk, online approach that is sure and sheen; a God made to impact its audience. gourmet food and superstar Most of us long for that entertainment; they never emerge from wonder that offers the simplicity of days gone by, Advances in technology the casinos long enough to stroll the promise of ablution. mean that Masterpiece can beach or fall asleep on a lounge chair. that day at the beach with be anywhere at any time. Atlantic City used to be the place where Life can be quiet and slow paced here. our families. According to Lacca, they are families came by train or in their station We have fireworks and flounder able to be in three places at wagons to spread a blanket on the beach tournaments. Minutes over the bridges and eat hot dogs and ice cream; carefree once so being based in Atlantic that pour visitors onto the barrier whether for a day or a week. Most of us City isn’t limiting. On a typical island that supports the casinos of long for that simplicity of days gone by, Atlantic City, we have farm stands day, Masterpiece is creating that day at the beach with our families, selling Jersey tomatoes and corn, and an ad for a property in Miami, but, living at this feverish pitch which is expanses of primitive pine barrens. on a phone conference with modernity, that pace slides further and executives in Los Angeles further back into our collective memory. Our Boardwalk now not only wraps and designing a billboard to around halls of gaming, The Richard be installed in Chicago, all We in the gaming industry are worried Stockton College of New Jersey has Margate without leaving the office. now at the reported drop in revenues extended its halls of learning to Atlantic and decrease in visitors. We are afraid City as well. And at a time when Atlantic City The agency also offers its of losing the glitter of the casinos and gaming companies may be temporarily time, expertise and services to the prosperity they have brought. But curtailing their growth, Stockton is numerous local and national perhaps instead of focusing on this as a experiencing unprecedented expansion, Lloyd D. Levenson is Chief Executive charities and nonprofits. Boys time of loss, we should look at it as a constructing new dormitories and Officer of the Atlantic City-based law firm Cooper 609-335-4977 & Girls Club, Gilda’s Club and time of opportunity. A time of academic facilities to keep up with the Levenson and Chairman of the firm's Casino Law Departments in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. South Jersey AIDS Alliance optimism and renewed enthusiasm for burgeoning student population; a the resources we have and a time to population of young optimists who Mr. Levenson may be reached at (609)344-3161 or hrdworkcharters.com by e-mail at [email protected]. appreciate the potential to mine and want to be here to pan the gold that still

28 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 29 All Real Estate is Local - Brand New Contemporary Victorian! Attention Buyers: The Time Is Unbelievable values in this elegant & tasteful By Mark Arbeit New Construction in St. Leonard’s Tract Beach block. Stunning ocean April showers don’t just live and raise their families year round. THERE views, expansive family and kitchen bring May flowers. In IS ONLY SO MUCH BEACH! people, there are the tax advantages in having a area for casual at home gatherings. Atlantic County, they bring mortgage but please consultInterior your features tax specialist includes 2 master suites with lots of homes on the market Tips For Buyers to see if these options benefit7 baths, anyou. elevator to all floors, lots of room for kids and grandkids. Exterior highlights include multiple decks and lots of buyers looking with an in-ground pool, cabana and barbecue area. THE TIME TO BUY IS NOW! Homes in Perfect for the buyer who wants the RIGHT place To advertise with the for a place of their own to Put Your Moneyfor quality Where time with familyYour and friends. Just Right Atlantic County are more affordable now than for year-round living. This Ventnor property is priced enjoy the fun and the sun, well below market value! they have been in several years. Location, price Mouth Is – As a general rule, a Seller want $2,999,000 the night life in the casinos, and condition are still the key factors. Come to sell their home as soon as possible. Other than the wide array of restaurants prepared to buy with realistic offers and you Onethe of actual a Kind price Direct you Ocean are Frontoffering New theConstruction! Seller, what Boardwalk Jo u r n a l and the growing new shopping areas. This may be able to purchase the home of your makes your offer more attractive is the speed This all brick new construction year more than ever buyers have more options dreams. In addition, properties can now be with which you are willing to go to settlement. ocean front home in Ventnor and more opportunities than they have had in considered a worthwhile investment to rent, A 30 day closing can often be the key to buying boasts 3000 sq call 609-345-0500 feet of interior many years. This makes for a very exciting time hold and later improve and be sold for profit. your dream home for a better price since often living space with or email us at 4 BR, 4.5 BA, Need Roofing in Real Estate as a Buyer or as a Seller. every month the Seller remains in the home is elevator, garage, HARD ASSETS vs. SECURITIES – Shore hardwood floors, costing them money. A timely closing is usually and superior [email protected] Unfortunately, the media continues to properties are an excellent way to diversity custom finishes. In addition the home is equipped worth more to a Seller, especiallywith the cost if effectivethe house Energy Star system. and Siding? bombard us on a daily basis about a National your portfolio with REAL PROPERTY versus Even more importantly, this home features has been on the market forthree a while. huge direct ocean front decks totaling housing market in peril. The most important paper profits and losses. 1500 sq feet. It won’t take long for the urban thing to remember above all things is ALL urgencies to give way to tranquility in this SO MANY HOMES, SO LITTLE TIME - In ALL REAL ESTATE ISone of LOCAL a kind beach andsanctuary our. REAL ESTATE IS LOCAL. No one seems Call Today! most price categories, there is a wide variety season is upon us. Home prices have never $2,995,000 to realize this, yet it can’t be stressed enough. of homes to choose from, giving buyers more been better and mortgage rates have never This is so important to keep in mind than one option. With this many beenGorgeous lower. Margate Atlantic Beach City Front is going Townhouse! to explode and understand with new opportunities over the next few years. Treat Yourself 609-822-4839 Buyers should take the time to and your loved as you watch the New casinos like Revel Resorts, The Pinnacle ones to the ensure their new home includes ultimate beach news and read the and The MGM Grand East are anticipate in getaway in this All phases of Negative as many of the features they desire contemporary papers. Negative the next few years and thanks to a joint venture direct ocean and in the right location they front 3 bedroom, roofing and siding reporting of a between the Borgata, Caesars Atlantic City 2.5 bath town- reporting of are seeking. home. Located declining market on Hotel Casino and Harrah’s Atlantic City now on the border of Margate and Longport, with incomparable ocean a National level may EVERY HOUSE HAS A there is the Atlantic Cityviews Express the home Train features Service a custom kitchen equipped xplore real estate a declining with Miele appliances and granite counters, wet bar, www.TopNotch-Roofing.com be information but “HUMP” – Even a home that (ACES) (www.aces.com)2nd fromstory deck NYC off the tomaster AC bedroom suite and a opportunities in Atlantic City, large ocean front patio with direct private access to it’s not relevant to market on costs several million dollars is which runs from Fridaysthe to beach. Sundays The home between has been extremely well maintained by the current owners including a new ESouth Jersey, the shore and Atlantic County. The going to lack something. Buyers Atlantic City and Penn Station.bulkhead and roof. • Bonded media is reporting a national must recognize that “perfect” $1,650,000 surrounding communities ALL REAL ESTATE IS LOCAL and THERE on the biggest trends does not exist in marriage, in • Insured IS ONLYGrand SO MUCH Derby Masterpiece! BEACH! So if you are a across the country, level may be children or in houses. Seeing Buyer or a Seller, don’t miss the boat or THE Few houses • Licensed but that does not past the imperfections and possess the information, EXPRESS TRAIN. combination of being able to modify them Grace and • Free Estimates necessarily apply on a grandeur of this local level. Buyers are affordably will yield an even majestic home. but it’s not Add to this its Jo Ann Daly • Owner Operated better home in the end. Find beach block often surprised when location on a house that meets your major Call my Cell: 609-402-5885 unquestionably Sales Associate they hear that our local relevant the finest street requirements that you love in prestigious St. Leonard’s Tract section of Ventnor cell: 609.513.8969 market does not fit the www.MarkAtTheShore.comand now you have found a one-of-a-kind CALL for your masterpiece. Spacious and sunny, the 5 BR, National trend. What to Atlantic and BUY IT. The PERFECT 4.5 bath estate, with its classic center stair design, e-mail: [email protected] HOUSE does not exist. [email protected] hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen, wood we tend to forget is that burning fireplace in living room, a huge deck with office: 609.822.3300 County. sweeping ocean views, 2 car garage and a full FREE our community and USING “OPM” – Cash finished basement. direct: 609.957.6054 the demand for homes is great if you have it; but $1,699,000 Estimate on Roofing and Siding! in our area are not with conventional mortgages still holding the same as it is in California, Florida or even at very desirable rates isn’t it better to use other parts of New Jersey. Atlantic County is “other people’s money” (OPM)? At this New Views New Horizons New Dreams a large growing resort community, and while time conventional mortgage rates vary from Yours at the Jersey Shore Jeff Moore our market has been affected, the people still 4.5%-5.0%, the lowest rates we have seen office: 609-822-4539 flock here every year seeking a second resident, in over 37 years! Does anyone remember a place to retire or just a great environment to when mortgage rates were 13-18%? For most PLATINUM PROPERTIES | 5321 Atlantic Ave. | Ventnor, NJ 08406 cell: 609-214-8375

30 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 31 PREA 100 REAltoR No Matter What Town... EvERy yEAR SincE 2002 onE of thE toP 100 PRudEntiAl The Hartman Home Team REAltoRS nAtionwidE!

www.HartmanHomeTeam.com

MARGATE BAYFRONT VENTNOR OcEANFRONT BRIGANTINE BAYFRONT SellsMARGATE BAYFRONT VENTNOR BEAchItBlOck All!ATlANTIc cITY BAYFRONT

BEACHY BAYFRONT “Babe of the Block” is turning eyes of BRAND NEW STUCCO EXTERIOR JUST COMPLETED!! YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE YOUR EYES! Opportunity Knocks!! THE DECORATOR JUST LEFT! This property has been PREMIUM QUALITY 3-STORY NEW CONSTRUCTION! FREE BOAT! ATTENTION BOATERS! MAGNIFICENT, passers-by. Boasting 4700 square feet w/5 mini suites, each w/ This is a home most people only dream about. Warm, filled w/ Don’t miss your chance to own this gorgeous mansion on the bay - completely redone. Immaculate 6800 sq ft luxury home on the best SPECTACULAR OCEAN VIEWS FROM THIS 4600SQFT FULLY LOADED, OSPREY ESTATES HOME!!! Do not miss their own bath. This stunner also features a home theatre, custom life & comfort, this 4BR/4.5BA sun-drenched home ON A it’s impossible to beat the panoramic water view and Atlantic City block of the most sought after street. Features 5BD/4.5BA, private HOME! Property has a gourmet kitchen w/ Viking professional this 4BR/3.5BA custom beauty featuring 2 bonus RM’s, 3rd floor boat slip & dock, new bulkhead, large deck, 2-car garage, lovely GORGEOUS, PRIVATE, OVERSIZED LOT, boasts a large new skyline views that you’ll find here. Approximately 7000+ square balcony in each room, guest master suite, gorgeous custom kitchen series, lush granite counters, large island w/built-ins & storage. game room w/wet bar, 3400SF, 250FT aluminum dock w/auto stone driveway. And you’ll be floored by the commercial gourmet modern kitchen, elevator, gleaming hardwood floors, 2 cozy FP’s, feet of the finest construction and amenities await. Glass elevator, w/granite countertops & stainless steel appliances, 2-car garage, Gigantic master suite w/2 walk-in closets & an unbelievable master lighting, 2 decks, 2 45 FT boat lifts, cherry cabinets, GE Profile kitchen, multiple fireplaces, & the brilliant finishes throughout, slate roof, breathtaking DIRECT OCEAN VIEWS & an inspiring granite, burglar alarm, gourmet kitchen, etc, etc... The elegance never elevator, gas fireplace, wonderful fiberglass decks, pool, spa, boat bath. 2 large decks, perfect for entertaining & a massive great room appliances, fireplace, alarm system, 2 car garage, master Jacuzzi, causing admirers from near and far to marvel at this home’s very skyline. For those who enjoy the beauty & serenity of oceanfront ends and all this beauty is located on a double lot. $4,999,000 slips & more. The ultimate in quality of life!$3,700,000 to accompany. 2 car garage, an elevator w/convenient multi-level home warranty, plenty of storage & THE BEST SKYLINE VIEWS unique, ingenious, floor plan! This one’s a jewel!$3,250,000 living, it doesn’t get better than this!$2,972,000 access & just yards to the beach & boardwalk! $2,099,000 OF AC! This home is fit for a king & his large family!!$799,000

MARGATE BEAchBlOck VENTNOR BEAchBlOck BRIGANTINE BEAchBlOck MARGATE OcEANFRONT VENTNOR OcEANFRONT ATlANTIc cITY OcEAN cluB

NEW CONSTRUCTION with an amazing location! Perfect 2% MORTGAGE MONEY, 30 YR FIXED LOAN, NO POINTS, ABSOLUTELY AWESOME 7BR/10BA new construction featuring UNIQUE OCEANFRONT OPPORTUNITY! Nothing EUROPE COMES TO VENTNOR in this 1-of-a-kind beachfront FANTASTIC PRICE REDUCTION for a Reno unit at the famous corner home located by the library, park, restaurants, shopping, NO GIMMICKS!!! Call today for more information. The sun meets the the best of everything! 4 fireplaces. 9’ & 10’ cathedral ceilings. 5 bars. between you & the beach. Awaken to the sights & sounds of the masterpiece. This custom 4000SF Mediterranean-style is truly Ocean Club completely renovated w/Bamboo hardwood floors, supermarket & SO MUCH MORE!! Fabulous interior featuring sea in this commanding 1st lot-off-the-beach, New England style, new Gourmet kitchen; wine cellar; rich tile & carpeting throughout. 2 waves crashing right outside almost any room. This spectacular unparalleled. Jaw-dropping baths, extravagant Tiger wood flrs, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, custom lighting, a sparkling floors, marble, elevator, gorgeous gourmet chef’s kitchen construction w/eternal beachfront views. Outrageous, unsurpassed, whirlpools; 2 car garage w/magnificent 4 car driveway; private, roof- 5BR/4.5BA home features hardwood floors, a partially finished world-class chef kitchen w/double Wolf ovens, Wolf range, and marble bath, custom mirrors, modern fans, oversized tile balcony w/granite, deck w/ocean views & all of the amenities of a drop- open views from front & side. 5 dramatically proportioned bedrooms top, gazebo w/bar; large, private landscaped backyard; trash enclosure; basement, storm shutters on every window, gorgeous custom tiled wine cooler. Hurricane windows. Captivatingly beautiful in-ground w/OCEAN & BAY VIEWS, garage parking & this building is PET dead gorgeous home!! This home is priced to sell & will not last including 2 master suites, 4.5 baths. Double garage w/convenient 1500 sq ft exterior decks. The ULTIMATE in prestigious living! For fireplace, 6 car parking, & incredible wrap-around deck on two pool. This home is a world-class experience of regal splendor, FRIENDLY!!! This gorgeous 1BR/1.5BA features a great location long. Live the lifestyle of the rich and famous in your new beach elevator access to 3.5 floors. Magnificent kitchen, cathedral ceilings, those accustomed to the very best, this truly unparalled A-ZONE levels. Located close to the playground, restaurants & shopping- sumptuous amenities, & incomparable elegance. If you’ve promised next to the brand new Chelsea Hotel. Call today before it’s too late!! block this summer!! DONT WAIT! $1,849,000 family room w/FP, large, spacious closets & backyard! $2,272,000 beauty is a home that echoes achievement! $3,790,000 -for the full Seashore Experience. Must see! $3,975,000 yourself the best in life, there is no better time than NOW to keep This is the life...$229,900 that promise! $4,500,000 MARGATE PARkwAY VENTNOR BEAchBlOck BRIGANTINE BEAchBlOck MARGATE PARkwAY VENTNOR BAYFRONT ENclAVE

SPECTACULAR 3800 SQ FT NEW HOME less than 2 yrs old! 2 % MORTGAGE MONEY, 30 YR FIXED LOAN, NO POINTS, 8-BEDROOM, 8-BATH BEACHBLOCK MANSION hits the ALMOST-NEW CONSTRUCTION BEAUTY!!! Gorgeous home ST. LEONARD’S TRACT TRIPLE LOT! You must see this LEAST EXPENSIVE 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN THE BUILDING! Features include 4-5 car parking, 2-zone C.A., large back yard w/ NO GIMMICKS! It’s a home most people only dream about. jackpot: Luxury Estate and Elegant Vacation Rental Masterpiece- w/beautiful 2-story floor plan featuring shining hardwood floors, palatial property w/4 boat slips, private entrance, large, private Featuring 3 balconies, panoramic ocean, city and bay views, open room for pool, zoned Jacuzzi/Gazebo, large BR’s & walk in closet, Residing on the 2nd lot from the beach, this 3-story contemporary -Wow! A home that helps pay for itself! Nestled on 60x90 lot glamorous master-suite, 4BR/2.5BA, open kitchen w/center island, outdoor cabana w/shower, in-ground pool, Jacuzzi, 3 or 4 BR’s, floor plan, & spacious square footage!! Marble flooring, newer boat slip avail., 10’ ceilings on 1st flr, 9’ on 2nd, built w/quality offers everything. 5 marvelous bedrooms including 2 sumptuous in prestigious A-Zone. Jaw-dropping designer appointments family room, fireplace in living room, cathedral ceilings, sprinkler 4BA’s, master deck, massive living room w/fireplace, central air & carpeting & stainless steel appliances. This great building has 2 construction, plantation shutters, oak hrwd flrs & a possible 1st flr master suites, 4.5 baths, whirlpool, gourmet kitchen with kitchen throughout. Gourmet kitchen with finest granite and pro system, beautiful landscaping, outdoor shower, lots of storage & SO brand new water heater! You will be the envy of all your friends w/ pools, exercise room, library, parking & 24-hour security. Unit was BR! Fabulous gourmet kitchen includes gorgeous White Fantasy center island, spacious great room, 2-car garage with elevator access appliances. Elevator, media room, rear yard with pool. Roof Top MUCH MORE TO SEE! Don’t miss out on this great new home in a the parties you can throw in this backyard! This is a special piece of updated within the last 4 years. If you’re in the market for a luxury granite w/marble backsplash & too many other features to list!! to all 3 residence floors. Enjoy your morning coffee with gorgeous Deck w/romantic, 360 degree A.C. views. Sleeps 20! Enchanting fabulous location w/so much to offer! Walk to the beach or host your property that is hard to come by w/jaw-dropping views from every condo, you won’t want to miss this beauty! Two other units also OVERSIZED (60X80X105) PARKWAY LOT!!! WATER VIEWS, ocean views or entertain guest on 4 decks. This is the end of the & engaging. A palace! 5 minutes to Borgata and A.C. Trust your parties in your gourmet kitchen & open space!! $850,000 room! Don’t miss the boat on this one! $1,799,000 available. $429,000 QUIET STREET! $1,200,000 rainbow and the address of your future. $1,799,000 impulse! Change your life! Call today! $2,499,000 A profile of our area’s most luxurious homes: 7805 Bayshore Drive • Margate

Best of the Beach generations. Own this home and every friend will ask if intimate gatherings. It’s the perfect escape after their daughter can have her wedding here. a draining day at work. 1st Floor Master Suite The 2nd Level Upon entering the master suite, you will be struck by When you’ve had enough of heaven, you can the floor to ceiling windows, the tremendous light, walk back inside, and head up the winding gorgeous Brazilian walnut hardwood floors and endless staircase to the 2nd floor. Immediately at the bay views. All rooms in the house are wired with a state- top of the stairs is a quaint loft-style sitting of-the-art sound system. There’s a large plasma TV on area. This upper foyer-2nd floor sitting area is converted into a 375 square foot game room, should you the wall above the fireplace. Marvelous double doors adorned in matching Brazilian walnut flooring and very so choose. take you directly out onto 1,500 square feet of Timber comfortable furniture. The 5.75 inch hardwood base and This home is designed for easy entertaining. And the Tek deck, which ends on top of the bulkhead over the custom crown molding which is seen throughout the deck is designed to be your entertaining hub. There’s water. Attached to the master suite is the master bath entire home makes a bold statement here. The custom a natural gas hook up on the deck and the deck is which is spa-like in design. The shower is spacious and oak railings decoratively surround the entire sitting area, wired for sound, too! You can grill your steaks to the has seamless glass doors. Maybe you can see yourself in adding detail, character, and a memory of an age gone- sounds of Frank Sinatra. Here is your chance to live in the heat-circulating Jacuzzi tub. The toilet has its own by where quality came before price, and lasted long after a fabulous Bayshore Drive neighborhood, in a home enclosed area. There is very generous walk-in closet price was forgotten. There’s a large wooden desk offering that is truly a builder’s masterpiece. It’s big enough space on both sides of the hall between the bedroom exciting bay views in this area as well. that you will not outgrow it. If the $3,450,000 price and bath areas. Window Wrapped Living Room Next, To the left of the sitting room are two bedrooms and a is comfortable for you, trust your impulse to say there’s the living room. Open, airy, with comfortable full bath. Like all of the baths, this one also has Tuscan “yes.” Call the builder’s agent, Paula Hartman and changes at night. The custom interior lighting creates the Afternoon Tea seating to entertain. There’s a gas fireplace on the wall earth tone colors, ceramic tile and rich Wood Mode the Hartman Home Team at 609-487-7234. Introducing effect of illumination by moonlight on the bay through Directly to the left is a charmingly warm room that with decorative tile around matching the warm, neutral cabinetry. The back bedroom has full bay views and a the open expanse of towering windows and architecture. could be used as a library or bar. There is a ribbon wall of decor. A plasma TV is directly above the fireplace. Sit fiberglass sealed deck. The front bedroom has views of The builder spent heavily to orchestrate this residence. No windows that vividly confirms the home’s open, breathy down and your viewing options are vast. Your eyes can Bayshore Drive. attention to detail was left out: from the rich Azek fascia, ambiance, with views of Bayshore Drive. This room is take you to the front foyer, or the bay, or even to the 7805 Bayshore Drive. The layout is an architectural wonder stately arching front porch, roof and back-bay windows, furnished with tall, stately chairs and a wood bar. Here kitchen, which is open to the living room. 2nd Floor Master Suite with unsurpassed quality and stunning design features to the safe, warm, and dry Anderson windows and the you can welcome your guests to a martini or Manhattan The opposite wing of the house houses your second in its 6 bedrooms and about 6,500 square feet of living Do You Like To Cook? master bedroom. Gas fireplace, hardwood floors, plasma complete shore package protecting you from the harsh and some pleasant conversation. The kitchen area here looks like something you see in space. This home is designed around the most elegant of seashore elements for many happy years to come. TV and spectacular bay views are included here. The lifestyles with opulent master suites, sun-filled interiors, Directly outside this room and centrally located to the a magazine spread. The windows from the bay and adjoining master bath has dual sinks set in Wood Mode spacious floor plans, and sweeping decks offering gentle Let’s Go Inside front foyer is a quaint sitting area, just another one of kitchen wash the room with light. The kitchen is state- cabinetry, and a seamless and spacious glass door bay breezes and world-class views. The first “delicious” Builder Justin Michael’s creative and artistic inclinations innumerable retreats in the home to entertain or to of-the-art and filled with Viking appliances such as a shower. There’s also two mammoth walk-in closets, his elevate this residence to “one-of-a-kind” status. The attribute is the setting. Fully landscaped with sod, various unwind. Guests and children can comfortably congregate gas cook-top, convection oven, convection microwave, and hers, across the hall from each other. sweeping, light-filled grandeur entices your senses the trees, bushes and flowers, the property comes with a built here upon arriving or prior to departing the premises. as well as a Fisher Pakel two drawer dishwasher and moment you enter the premises. At your feet are floors Sub Zero refrigerator freezer. Everything’s stainless. The More and More in sprinkler system, exterior enclosed outdoor tile shower made from Dal custom ceramic tile. You can almost feel Convenient Garage Access If you continue down the hall there is an ample-sized, and cedar impression vinyl siding. The mood totally Very convenient access to and from the garage is located Wood Mode cabinets have a Springfield raised square a “tractor beam” pulling you straight forward through a door style with a rustic retreat finish--all promoting a carpeted bedroom, another full bath, a convenient, and lovely sitting area and into the hardwood through the doorway hidden to the far right of the front common theme in form and style. You’ll notice the rich, a generous-sized laundry room. There’s a floored living room with its expansive entrance... During inclement weather you can enter the large, front bedroom with hardwood floors wall of glass, which provides you with SUV-friendly garage here, start up the engine, and away sweeping granite countertops -- ideal for entertaining, as well as a stainless steel double bowl sink--sure to be the and lots of windows. There’s also a lovely an awe-inspiring view of the bay waters. you go –happy, safe, and DRY. It should be noted that front balcony off of this bedroom, adding Close your eyes and wiggle your toes on envy of any visiting chefs and gourmet cooks. The eat-in the Raynor insulated garage door helps keep the garage a feeling of even greater spaciousness the Dal tile and repeat Dorothy’s mantra, cozy in poor weather, and comes with electronic openers granite counter top is great for parties and entertaining “There’s no place like home...there’s no while preparing meals. Next to the kitchen is an adorable and freedom. Things to Note This massive as well as an exterior keypad for convenient entry. There 6,500 square foot Bay front property comes place like home...” For the sake of time, is also a 1st floor powder room providing a convenient breakfast room with a wall of ribbon windows looking we’ll leave out clicking your emerald with riparian rights for a dock. The owner stop before leaving the premises. Back in the main foyer out over the bay. It’s a cozy spot for cup of fresh coffee slippers. Now open your eyes and take a and the morning paper. invested $100,000 in Surround Sound and big gulping view of the 1st floor. Light, and into the sitting area there are many options of travel. Plasma televisions to create a truly state-of- bright, and drenched in sunshine, the To the right is a lovely curved stairway with custom oak A Great Big Deck the-art entertainment system throughout interior is a masterfully coordinated railings which wind to the 2nd floor and traverse the 2nd If your morning coffee won’t wake you up, the views the house. An intercom system is included mosaic of form and light again stretching floor loft area, adding a decorative charm and grace to the from the adjoining 1,500 square foot deck will throw you with individual music controls and even an outward and forever upward. area. This is the kind of home that will stay in a family for into overdrive. This area is designed for large parties and ipod attachment. The sixth bedroom can be

34 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 35 found on the corner of Osborne and As fate would have it, I became the red geraniums and holiday wreath the Parkway in Margate, is everyone’s friends with Mary Lou Munyan still graced the house. I was moved favorite house! When discussing a McLaughlin. I was thrilled when by such a loving gesture, made by the new project with a client or talking Mary Lou invited me to the house. children to honor their parents, their about concepts with a builder or Once inside, I didn’t know where home and the Margate Parkway. architect, the Munyan house always to look first; the trim, the staircases When the real estate sign went up on TheseGardens finds its way into the conversation. and the fireplaces were all even more the front lawn, many of us held our By Tina Leonard Are Anything But Grey! It is not hard to see why. The attention spectacular than I had imagined. breath hoping that whoever came I could not wait for the airing of the to find in an East Hampton 28-room eventually purchased the Beale to detail is amazingly perfect. Everything was enchanting, down to to live there would love the house HBO movie Grey Gardens. The story “cottage.” Grey Gardens was originally property and lovingly restored the Designed by Bayne Williams, with the way the sunlight lit the rooms. as much as we do. The property of the Beale family is a fascinating one storybook beautiful but the movie estate to its original splendor – an the creative input of Mr. Munyan The house is old Hollywood; it could is a Margate treasure; a testament but, as a decorator, the chance to see concludes with the eccentric mother ending that would have made the (a lawyer), the house offers Georgian have been the backdrop for the movie to family, home, community and what their home, Grey Gardens, looked and daughter as recluses and the Beales smile for sure! architecture at its best. The front High Society, starring Grace Kelly. Its understated elegance. And just like entry, gracious gardens, perfectly charm also extends to the outside; Grey Gardens, the Munyan home will like in its heyday was just too tempting. house and gardens in total disrepair. After seeing the movie, I thought scaled windows and interesting while driving the Parkway, I always always hold a special place in many I was not disappointed! The Beale Most think the story ends there but about a property in our area that railings make a stunning presentation. look for the red geraniums in summer people’s hearts. home was simply charming, with all Sally Quinn and her husband, Ben evokes the same type of interest Grey The side and rear areas of the house and the wreath on the front door at of the trimmings one would expect Bradlee, of Washington Post fame, Gardens does. The Munyan home, are totally unique. So many of us have the holidays. R wondered what it must be like to live The Munyan property has been Tina Leonard is a decorator and there and have walked by hoping to handled with such tender loving care proprietor of Dee Decor & Design. She get a peek inside. This seems to be by the family over the years. After grew up in Margate and now resides a home that inspires so many others. Mr. and Mrs. Munyan passed away, with her family in Linwood. Dee Decor Design &

a personalized decorating service

tina leonard phone 609.601.0553 [email protected] Photo by Ginny Leith

36 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 37 Little Stevie Wonder.” Blavat said. “It was his first professional spot. To this day, gea•tor [gee-ter] noun, proper. Defined: Slang version Stevie Wonder remembers that the first of gator, as in alligator, who lies quietly in the murk until professional gig he ever did was with Jerry Blavat on Kentucky Avenue in Atlantic it is disturbed, then it snatches you up, never letting go. City in 1962.” Blavat also worked with Dick Clark’s Cavalcade of Stars and Ed Hurst on The I’ve known Jerry Blavat, better known as was always years ahead of myself. My father Steel Pier. Blavat was a co-host with Hurst The Geator with the Heater or The Big Boss passed away in my youth. This forced me to before moving on to television with an with the Hot Sauce, for more than 30 years accept responsibilities that normally would assist from Hurst. and I knew of him for many years before not have been expected of a person of such “I don’t know for sure how to describe G that. I went in search of The Geator’s story a young age,” Blavat explained. o what it is that Jerry Blavat does. But I do d d in an effort to discover who he really is. He The Geator is “My mother worked as a riveter in the know that he is the only one who does it,” ! seems to speak a different language than o Naval Yard and at Eskin’s Jewelers. I was Hurst said. the rest of us, yet somehow we understand raised by the nuns at Saint Monica’s Day o Still Rocking As for how The Geator came to be everything he communicates. Nursery and Grammar School and in fact, associated with American Bandstand, The Geator’s language is music. He’s been I’m one of the first Jewish kids to ever After 50 Years. Blavat said, “I began watching Bandstand G the musical professor for more than five graduate from a Catholic school.” on television and thought that I could decades and the throngs of people who Blavat’s first memories of Atlantic City are dance as good as those kids. But there was continue to gather for his performances are good ones. He has been visiting the city an age restriction to dance on the show, his musical disciples. Upon experiencing since he was a child. fourteen years old at that time. I was only The Geator, you quickly learn that he is thirteen. I sneaked in one day with some not merely a disc jockey; the term does not “As a kid, my aunts and uncles would of the older kids. Before I knew it, I was nearly describe the depth of performance drive to Atlantic City to various boarding winning dance contests and receiving fan that people have come to expect from him houses to enjoy what the shore had to mail at the TV station.” over the years. He is a performer. offer. We would always arrive near the Italian Village of Million Dollar Pier on The host of Bandstand at the time, Bob While it may be the Geator’s name on the the Boardwalk, so I have a long history Horn, became like a second father to marquee, he recognizes and conveys that with Atlantic City,” Blavat said. Blavat. The Geator would go to record the music is the real star. He also remembers the first time he did hops with Horn and in the summer they “It’s all about the music, the feeling and a show there. would take Horn’s boat, aptly named energy that is transmitted to the people “Bandstand,” to Wildwood and work “One of the first gigs that I ever did with who come to my performances,” Blavat clubs there, such as the Starlight, with my radio show in Atlantic City on WMID, said. “What people know and can expect names like Tony Bennett, Patti Page and one of the first dances that we ever did, when they come to my club, Memories and Johnny Ray. in Margate, or any stage that I might play, was at the Jefferson Hotel on Kentucky Blavat went on to become the chairman is that they will be assured to receive Avenue in the early sixties. I remember of the dance committee. He organized the everything that I have to give.” it so vividly. One of the first acts we ever introduced was ‘Finger Tips’ by Little dancers, rotated the kids from the stands To harness the perpetual energy that Stevie Wonder.” to the dance floor and moved the people is Jerry Blavat, you have to go back to in the stands throughout the show. He Berry Gordy had sent a demo from the the beginning, even before the “yon rated the records for Horn to play and was then-unknown artist and said that he teenagers” in 1953, the description Jerry put in charge of handling the stars that wanted The Geator to listen to it and, if Blavat coined for his audiences -- though Horn booked for the show. his audiences have been much more mixed he liked it, Gordy would like to have the Blavat recalls dancing in the hallway before in age than that. artist perform at The Geator’s next dance. a show one day and being observed by a “At this time, my show was very important Gerald Joseph Blavat was born July 3, man who was getting ready to perform. His to the record industry because I had the 1940, in Philadelphia. name was Sammy Davis, Jr. Amused by the ears of the kids who were buying records. talent of the young jitterbugging Blavat, “I was the product of a broken family and I It was at The Jefferson that I gathered Davis said, “Wow....you’re the white me.” By Don P. Hurley saw my father, but never on a regular basis as all of the ‘yon teenagers’ to welcome a This chance meeting was the beginning of Entertainment Director most young people of that time did. I think I brand new artist who turned out to be a friendship that would last a lifetime. Photo by Don P. Hurley by Don P. Photo June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 39 “I played in movies with Sammy, was on Blavat said. “What I learned from them Blavat did an all-nighter at the radio “As soon as you click on, I’ve got you. I’m your companion and the disc jockey each year of Blavat’s club, Memories in The Mod Squad with him and wound up was that you could buy time on the radio.” studio. No sooner did he get home and going to become the Alligator... Gator... was your friend. You confided in him. Margate, located at Madison and Amherst said fast. Geator. Now, I think of what I would have friends and listeners call Avenues. The Geator is such a fixture being his best man at his wedding. He Blavat rented an hour of air time for $150. go to bed than his wife woke him to tell rhymes with Geator that signifies what in and confide in me. They would call in Margate that he has become their announced his plans to wed at a dinner He then sold the time in blocks of twenty him that the station’s general manager, it is that I’m doing. I thought of all the and ask for requests and even help with unofficial ambassador to the summer party at my home.” minutes and walked away with $240 more Bud Hibbs, was on the phone. Hibbs told times I had kids calling the radio station their problems. The disc jockey was a season. Many clubs have come and gone Sadly, Blavat also was one of the ones to plus $30 from the Venus Lounge. Blavat, “Whatever you did, keep doing it. for requests, and in the background I can part of the community. Unfortunately, during the nearly four decades that The lay Davis to rest May 16, 1990. The kids went crazy over the music.” This marketing of himself and his ideas hear their parents yelling, ‘Turn that radio today there is no longer radio that wants Geator has been operating Memories. Blavat went to the radio station When Bob Horn lost the Bandstand gig was only the beginning for the man down, he’s too loud, it’s too hot!’ That’s it. personality. The stations change formats management to see if they would be “I think of the Beacon Inn,” he said, in 1956, Blavat traveled to Texas with him who was soon to become The Geator I’m The Geator with the Heater. Later, I like you might change your clothes. interested in him doing a full-time gig. He “of Moylins, Merrills, Gables, The Old for the summer. The Geator was sixteen with The Heater. Blavat soon found added The Boss with the Hot Sauce as a still had his sponsors for his radio show “I don’t think there is anything special Tavern, The White House, The Ocean years old and in his junior year at South himself on the radio doing live talk and reflection of the barbecue you would get and he offered to do five nights a week about me,” Blavat said. “I just have a love Pub, and The Surfside. None of them East Catholic High School at the time. interviewing stars who happened to be on Kentucky Avenue in Atlantic City with from 9:30 to 11:00. and energy to transmit these feelings are there anymore. The only ones left are When Blavat returned to school in the in town, such as Don Rickels, Connie sauce so hot it would burn your mouth.” fall, he started to hang around the office Francis and Rocky Marciano. The In the 1960s, the station was owned and to others through music on radio and Memories and Maynards. Blavat did his broadcast from beneath at live shows and I feel so blessed to of Nat Segall, a booking agent. Geator’s show from the Venus Lounge managed by the City of Camden, and “I first worked in my building when it was became wildly successful. The club was therefore by the mayor of Camden. Once the big clock atop Camden City Hall. “I have been able to do this under so many Segall booked for the Celebrity Room and was The Geator with the Heator, the Boss circumstances through the years.” The Elbow Room in 1970 or1971. I worked through him Blavat became Don Rickles’ packed on Monday nights and became again, luck favored The Geator because during the dead of winter on a Friday and with the Hot Sauce, rockin’ the big tic-toc The Geator’s next endeavor is writing. The valet when Rickles was playing there. the hottest thing in South Philadelphia. the mayor’s young daughter was a fan of Saturday night, and they paid me a thousand on that tower power clock,” said Blavat. book will be about his early beginnings, Blavat also became the road manager for Just as a lucky roll of the dice resulted in Bandstand and of Blavat. He began to do dollars. We packed that place.” his many friendships in show business Danny and the Juniors. Their smash hit The Geator’s radio gig, a chance turn of the show in Camden, starting with record At every appearance The Geator does, there’s and his life in general. In 1972, Blavat purchased the club, “At the Hop” was racing up the charts. In bad weather shaped the entire future of hops and simulcast-broadcasting on a rap sung to the opening bars of “Heatwave” changed the name to Memories, and hung 1959, Blavat went on the road with them, things to come for Blavat. In January 1961, WMID in Atlantic City, and syndicated by Martha Reeves and the Vandella’s. “I’ve hung with Frank and Dean, I was a big sign on the wall that read: “As you doing 27 shows in thirty days. massive snow storm crippled Philadelphia. on Philadelphia radio on station WHAT. “A performer looks for a song or a tag that Sammy Davis Jr’s best man at his wedding, enter this club today... as you enter this The Venus Lounge was closed. But Blavat Blavat’s next challenge was to create a becomes a part of their career,” he says. I played in the movies, I did The Monkees From there, he transitioned into radio. club tonight... you will make memories also was doing dance shows on the nickname for himself. “Everyone had “Heatwave is a part of my career. Even and Mod Squad television shows. I met “One day, I was shooting craps with the of the wonderful artist musicians in show weekends. Blavat gathered up some of the a nickname,” he said, “a handle that when people hear the song played on Charlton Heston, Al Martino, Phyllis older guys in the neighborhood on the business that make us all happy.... we will neighborhood kids and proceeded to go they were known as.” Alan Freed was another station, I’m told that they think, Diller, and I had them and many others streets of Philadelphia,” Blavat said. “One lift our toast and toast these wonderful on the air -- not from the club, but as a live the original King of Rock and Roll, ‘hey... that’s the Geator’s song!’ There on my shows. These are my friends and I of the guys owned a club called the Venus am part of a show business family. I was record hop at the radio studio. Georgie Woods was the Guy with the are a few songs in my career that really artists... and as you leave Memories Lounge. This guy is saying that he’d like raised on that. It’s the love that I have and Goods and there was Jocko the Ace exemplify the excitement I’ve been able today ...you will have made memories for to do something at the club on Monday “I played the music all night, live, with kids the joy that I get in seeing people happy, from Outer Space. to transmit to the audience. It’s that song, tomorrow and you will be back again.” nights. It’s a dead night and he’d like to dancing,” says Blavat. “Nothing else was smiling and coming alive in song and the entire rhythm that is the kicker.“ But the thing The Geator takes the most do a radio show. One of the other guys moving in town. And by this time, the kids “I was shaving one morning, thinking dance. We all experience joy and sadness said, ‘There’s Blavat, he knows everything and their parents are all searching the radio that here I am alone at the end of the Blavat believes he has been blessed to be together and if I’m able to take you away pride in when speaking about his club about show business.’” waves for news about whether or not the dial, playing this music that no one else able to follow his heart and his passion from those bad moments and let you is the diverse group of people of all ages schools would be open. What they heard is playing. I found myself thinking of the for music and entertaining others. “I relive the magical moments, when you who patronize it. Don Pinto, the owner, then asked Blavat, instead was me spinning these great records alligators in Florida lying in the murk don’t program from the research chart. I were truly honest, pure and happy, that’s “You will find that Memories is an “What the hell do you know about radio?” of Little Richard, Fats Domino, Chuck Berry and the swamps. If you don’t bother with program from the heart,” He said. what I do. That’s my mission.” intergenerational experience. People of all While touring with Danny and the Juniors, and Frankie Lymon, The Clefftones, Bobby them, they won’t bother with you. But if When you think of the summer season, ages can agree and understand one thing, Blavat visited many radio stations. “I paid Darin and Danny and the Juniors.” The you get their attention, they’ll snatch you “Radio will never be the same as what it you can’t help but think of the opening and that is good music and a good time.” close attention to the DJs in the booth,” phones at the radio station lit up in response. up and not ever let go,” Blavat said. was back then,” he said. “The radio was

40 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 41 MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

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shoRe Mall My journey in search of The Geator’s You could feel summer in the air that Jerry Blavat plays the good music and shoPPing story ended in Wildwood on Friday, evening in Wildwood. There was a he has been doing so for more than April 24, 2009. Blavat was kicking off the feeling that everything was all right and five decades, with no sign of slowing CenteR Sensational 60’s Weekend at the Wildwood The Geator was there doing what he was down any time soon. The ambassador Convention Hall on the Boardwalk in born to do: to spin some of the greatest this historic rock-and-roll town. I arrived music ever recorded while performing in of summer in Margate will return for a 6725 Black Horse Pike early and a crowd had already gathered his own original way, putting smiles on 37th season at Memories in Margate, Pleasantville, NJ in anticipation of a good old-fashioned people’s faces. beginning Memorial Day weekend record hop, starring Jerry Blavat. The Geator is fond of saying that we should with a live concert featuring Kenny I asked several of the attendees what it all “remember to keep on rockin’... because Vance and the Planetones. was that had brought them there. Many you only rock once.” This is another great of them had the same answer: “It’s the lesson in the Geator’s musical sermon of life. music. It’s The Geator’s personality and 609-646-2831 his energy.”

42 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 43 Revel It was the one casino project that broke ground Last ‘Plan’ when all the others were still just pretty pictures. delayed, And as those other casino plans were tabled, the but work Revel casino plowed ahead with construction. So, when Revel announced in January it was Standing continues laying off 400 workers and slowing construction of its $2 billion casino at the northern end of the By Judy DeHaven Boardwalk, it was as if Atlantic City lost all its optimism. Revel, the pundits said, was A.C.’s last beacon of hope. But don’t count Revel out just yet. Sure, the casino has halted work on the interior. But exterior construction continues, and more than 30 stories of the 46-story hotel tower have been completed. “We haven’t stopped,” said Kevin DeSanctis, CEO of Revel Entertainment. The casino’s exterior work is funded through the first part of 2010. DeSanctis hopes it will Eat-In • takE-Out • DElIvEry buy enough time for Revel to raise money to complete the project. The casino, which is OpEn 7 Days: 10:00 aM untIl MIDnIght backed by Morgan Stanley, had not secured Pizza • Stromboli • CalzoneS • SteakS • Panini • Hot & Cold SubS permanent financing before the recession hit. SandwiCHeS • burgerS • wraPS • SaladS • wingS When Revel announced plans for its ocean- themed resort, it was supposed to be the start of a series of massive casino projects that would WE DElIvEr 347-4747 remake Atlantic City. Pinnacle Entertainment 1200 AtlAntic Avenue, AtlAntic city, nJ 08401 (corner of AtlAntic & north cArolinA Ave.) had planned a resort on the site of the former Sands casino; MGM Mirage proposed a mega resort next to Borgata; a partnership between Cape May developer Curtis Bashaw and former Caesars Entertainment CEO Wally Barr had When you’re in need of legal guidance, give hoped to build a casino near the Tropicana; and developers were circling Bader Field with grand yourself the winning advantage that comes with plans for major casino development. experience. With more than 12 attorneys Now, the only one standing is Revel. And while the deck seems stacked against him, DeSanctis said he practicing across a full spectrum of law and remains optimistic about the casino’s future. litigation, we are able to provide comprehensive “We are trying to be as efficient as possible with the dollars we have,” he said. “And yet, we’re legal services to individuals as well as clients with trying to stay on track so as we come out of this recession we are positioned to take full advantage local, regional and national operations. After of what we expect will be an upswing.” more than a century of service, we’ve built a rock solid reputation on results. Photo by Ginny Leith by Ginny Photo YOUNGBLOOD, LAFFERTY & SAMPOLI, P.A.

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44 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 45 Devitt of being No one has ever accused Bob Mc subtleBy Judy DeHaven The 47-year-old Atlantic City resident may be family and the hours were flexible. And it’s in CEO Mark Juliano said. “But I’ve always the resort’s most outspoken cheerleader – and a place that I love. Where else was I going to found Bob reasonable. He’s the kind of guy critic. As chairman of the city’s Democratic go and live close to the water?” you can talk to. He’s not a chest pounder. He committee and head of Ace’s largest union, He became president of Local 54 in 1996 when doesn’t threaten. He knows at the end of the Local 54 of UNITE HERE, McDevitt is in a he was just 34 years old. It was a critical time for day what’s good for the industry is good for position to play a role in many important issues. the union. Previous leaders had been ousted on him and good for his members.” And he has something to say about them all. corruption charges and the union was being Even Whelan, the state senator and former When asked about Andy Stern, the head monitored by the federal government. mayor, said while he and McDevitt often have of a rival union that is trying to lure away John Wilhelm, president of UNITE HERE’s been on opposing sides, “I’m not interested Local 54 members, McDevitt called him an hospitality division, said if he had to conjure in making derogatory comments or saying “unethical liar.” Revel Entertainment, which up the perfect Local 54 president, “I couldn’t things about past controversies. And I had to slow construction of its $2 billion have imagined a more perfect person than certainly explained things I did and why I did casino because it did not obtain permanent Bob. He’s really gifted and smart and very them. And Bob McDevitt explained where financing before the recession, is “a victim of supportive of his members.” he disagrees. I don’t carry that over to the its own conceit.” next issue.” A key change that McDevitt brought to And while McDevitt said he has no animosity Local 54 is that he created more of a balance One area where Whelan said he agreed toward Atlantic City Mayor Lorenzo Langford, between the front of the house and back with McDevitt was on the recent employee he also said he can’t support his candidacy of the house workers. Before McDevitt, legislation. Whelan said he, too, thinks because he is “all sizzle and no steak.” the local was dominated by front of the casino workers should have the right to Not even recent legislation, sponsored by house employees, such as bartenders and run for any political office. It’s just that he state Sen. Jim Whelan, which allows casino waitresses, and contracts from the early couldn’t get the support needed to pass such employees to run for Atlantic City Council 1990s reflect that. The kitchen workers and all-encompassing legislation. The ban was has made McDevitt particularly happy. housekeepers – who are predominantly implemented in 1981 as part of an ethics package passed in the wake of Abscam, the “Sen. Whelan created a fraud,” McDevitt women and nonwhite – made up a relatively small portion of the union. federal corruption scandal that led to the said. “People can run for council. But they convictions of several New Jersey federal and can’t run for mayor. They can’t run for his job “Back of the house members had very little state politicians. and they can’t run for assembly. role in the union,” Wilhelm said. “Bob has quite purposefully created a balance there.” “This is what was achievable,” Whelan said. “Either people have full constitutional rights “My view was, let’s take this step forward and under the U.S. Constitution or they don’t,” McDevitt attended college but never got his then at another time we can come back and McDevitt said. “Why should we be doing degree, something he regrets only because revisit the issue. back flips over that? To me it’s just a canard.” he spent so much time accumulating credits, Whelan was one of the few who has found It’s classic McDevitt. The fiery union leader he’d like to have something to show for it. But he never seems out of place sitting across himself in opposition to McDevitt’s views has never cowered from controversy. Some who agreed to talk publicly. Langford say he courts it. But even his adversaries admit the table from political heavyweights or casino bosses with MBAs. Andrew Zarnett, a spokesman Kevin Hall said the mayor would he has the best interests of his constituents – not discuss McDevitt until after the election, whether it’s his union or his city – at heart. research analyst for Deutsche Bank, first met McDevitt at the Tropicana licensing hearing which will be held in June. As chairman of the “I give him credit,” Whelan said. “He lives in in late 2007. The Wall Streeter and union city’s Democratic committee, McDevitt was town. He sends his kids to school here. He’s head leader ended up having lunch. at the center of a contentious decision about of the largest union in town. So, yeah, I think he’s the endorsement of Langford for mayor. got a real commitment to Atlantic City.” “My impression of him is he was very practical,” While he did not cast a vote, McDevitt – Zarnett said. “He understood the importance who had backed Langford in the past -- made McDevitt can trace his family history in the of standing up for his members and he also it known he now supports the mayoral bid of Atlantic City area going back to 1900, when his understood the reality of the marketplace.” City Councilman Marty Small. grandfather came to the U.S. from Ireland. That may partially explain his enduring devotion Former state Sen. William Gormley – a Kevin DeSanctis, CEO of Revel to A.C. Another reason is that he started his McDevitt fan – said people who don’t know Entertainment, also declined to comment. career as a waiter and bartender in the casino McDevitt often underestimate him. That And Atlantic City Councilmen Bruce Ward industry, the heart and soul of the city. can’t be said of the casino bosses in A.C. and Dennis Mason, who are embroiled in a controversy over a $56 million bond deal to “The money was good,” McDevitt said. “I think there’s this myth out there that union improve roads around the Revel casino, did “I was able to spend a lot of time with my and management are always at odds with each other,” Trump Entertainment Resorts not return calls.

Photo by Don P. Hurley P. by Don Photo June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 47 The deal enables Revel to obtain tax-exempt aspirations – Atlantic City mayor, perhaps? as president and trying to control the union’s bonds from private investors to finance the “I’ve been asked that question a million assets. McDevitt is named in the suit. road improvements. McDevitt wants to put times,” McDevitt said. “I have a responsibility In addition, a splinter group of UNITE HERE the issue before voters, a move the city is to the people I represent. I take that very has formed its own organization, Workers trying to block. In a lawsuit surrounding seriously. I have not considered any kind of United, which is working with Stern’s Service the uproar, McDevitt has accused Mason political move. It would take away from what Employees International Union (SEIU) to and Ward of conflicts of interest in voting to I do. I would not step away from people I’m organize Atlantic City casino workers. approve the bond agreement. working for or try to split my loyalty or time McDevitt called the efforts by SEIU “a Critics say McDevitt is trying to stop the or constituency. It’s a recipe for mediocrity. distraction” at a time when Local 54 needs to be bond deal in order to gain leverage over Revel That’s one thing I don’t want to be.” focusing on upcoming contract negotiations. in union negotiations. The Press of Atlantic He also said the state of Atlantic City “For them to fantasize about members City wrote an editorial calling McDevitt’s politics is the reason he got involved in his of Local 54 … leaving their union when actions a “union squeeze play.” But McDevitt current capacity. counters he is acting as a concerned resident. it’s about to start negotiations shows you And he said he is not alone, as evidenced by “The politics in this city are so corrupt and so how little they know about the members,” the 3,000 people who signed a petition to put dysfunctional that I felt the need to step forward McDevitt said. and bring sanity to this,” McDevitt said. the measure on the ballot. McDevitt’s dual roles in city politics and McDevitt said he thinks the price tag for While McDevitt is doing battle in Atlantic UNITE HERE have people taking notice. the road improvements is inflated and that City, his union is in the midst of its own Recently he was named in Casino Connection’s approving the deal now would be premature. turmoil. UNITE HERE, which formed in People to Watch for 2009. But McDevitt said 2004 as a merger between UNITE – the he is not out to seek fame or glory. “The city shouldn’t be giving money to build Union of Needletrades, Industrial and a connection for something that they (Revel) Textile Employees – and HERE – the Hotel “I do this for the love of it,” he said. “I don’t do haven’t built and don’t have financing for. Employees and Restaurant Employees it because I’m Bob McDevitt and I’m one of That’s putting the cart before the horse. International Union -- has basically filed the top 100 assholes in New Jersey. My goal “I know the citizens will vote it down,” he for divorce. Bruce Raynor, UNITE HERE’s is not to be a big shot. I’m not better than said. “They’re smarter than city council.” president, recently filed a federal lawsuit to anyone and I’m not beneath anyone. I treat people equally no matter who they are.” McDevitt’s foray into city politics has dissolve the merger and has accused several many speculating he has his own political HERE leaders of trying to usurp his powers

48 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 There was a time, Martin O’Boyle will O’Boyle convinced the code violation was ruled that O’Boyle was allowed to film tell you, when he didn’t even know where bogus, decided to fight back. He began to with certain restrictions in place. Longport’s Borough Hall was. fill out requests for public records under Then came the portable toilets and ice That was nearly three years ago. It was the Open Public Records Act, or OPRA. cream booth. They showed up one summer when O’Boyle, now 57, was just a well-to- He requested copies of zoning variances; weekend between 28th and 29th avenues. do, part-time summer resident – one who police dispatch audio communications, O’Boyle claimed that a 1901 deed granted hadn’t yet been charged with the zoning tapes, e-mails and correspondence from him ownership of a part of the beach near violation that would inspire him to become a zoning officer and published meeting property he owned there. Protesting the Longport’s Lone Ranger a semi-permanent thorn in the town’s side. minutes, among other items. lack of available restrooms and vendors’ prices for ice cream on the beach, O’Boyle It was a time before lawsuits and big- As the borough tried to fulfill the requests, provided both free for the weekend. name attorneys and mountains of records O’Boyle turned it up a notch. He hired requests that literally filled the city clerk’s some of the areas top attorneys to help him His videographer captured it all. By Regina Schaffer office. It was a time before banner planes fight his case, Lou Barbone, Jack Plackter He also took out newspaper ads in the – the ones that fly over the ocean during and James Leonard Jr. among them. weeklies about a “comedy act” featuring summer -- became a clever way for O’Boyle In the many months that followed, “Mayor Russo and the Longport bunglers.” to sling insults at Longport’s mayor and O’Boyle requested hundreds of records In return for all this, O’Boyle claims, he others. It was a time before newspaper and documents – at least 190, though by became the victim of some extra police ads, paid for by O’Boyle, mocked the some estimates it was hundreds more -- scrutiny, getting a parking ticket and what borough commissioners as a “circus act” taxing the resources of a part-time staff in he claims were a couple extra police “drive- and portable toilets (and free ice cream) what is essentially a part-time borough. bys” on his street. At times he claimed to feel somehow wound up on Longport’s beach. He deposited a $500 retainer with the threatened and even hired private security. It was a quiet time – the time before borough to cover administrative costs and He then resorted to banner planes. O’Boyle decided to single-handedly the borough, according to officials at the “Longport – is Mayor Russo the Premier take on Longport. But the quiet days are time, tried its best to keep up. puppet?” one plane banner read. long gone. Borough solicitor Thomas J. Subranni That particular banner referred to Mayor Today, who Martin O’Boyle is depends even claimed in a letter that O’Boyle sent Nick Russo and real estate broker Joe on who one asks. He’s either on the side in enough records requests at one point to DiLorenzo of Premier Properties, who ran of the taxpayer, fighting what he claims is disable two of the borough’s fax machines. Russo’s campaign. O’Boyle has frequently corruption in a town with just over 1,000 Delays continued. In April 2008, O’Boyle called DiLorenzo a “political boss.” residents that is about a half-mile in size, finally filed a one-count lawsuit, claiming A September 2008 YouTube video titled or he is a nuisance, a gadfly, and perhaps the borough “repeatedly and intentionally “Margate beach party” features just a few even a bit crazy (though O’Boyle denies denied open access (to public records) and of the banner ads that flew overhead that any of that). frustrated the plaintiff’s right to know by summer. In the video, an older man sitting Speaking on a local talk-radio show its silence.” in a beach chair smirks when asked for his recently, O’Boyle told the host that the Borough attorney A. Michael Barker filed thoughts on the unconventional messages. goal behind his sometimes-antagonistic a motion seeking to have O’Boyle’s lawsuit “These planes, they’re ball bustin’,” the man actions was a seemingly simple one. dismissed on the grounds that O’Boyle says. “But sometimes ball bustin’ is good.” “I just want my town back,” he said. is not a citizen of the state of New Jersey “I wish it all would have been different,” O’Boyle bought his 13th Avenue home – (O’Boyle is a full-time Florida resident) O’Boyle said. “I lived here 35 years, and Longport’s oldest, he claims – in 1977. A and therefore does not have a right to New this was the kindest, warmest town.” commercial developer and builder, O’Boyle Jersey public records. and his wife, Sheila, worked tirelessly to The court ultimately ruled in O’Boyle’s favor, It’s nearly one year after the planes, the restore the four-story structure, built in the but it didn’t matter. A feud had begun. toilets and the ads, and O’Boyle is still at it. 1880s, and make dramatic improvements. O’Boyle continued to request records In April, radio ads began to hit the airwaves, The trouble began in November 2006, for anything in the borough that he accusing the town of unfairly raising taxes, when a fire alarm in the O’Boyle home felt warranted a closer look. He hired a water and sewer bills, while “borough went off following a bad storm. The home videographer to film borough commission commissioners have doubled their salary.” was OK, but the O’Boyle’s soon found meetings, document his OPRA requests The radio ads were followed by cable them in violation of a borough code, and record beachgoers who chose to television ads with the same claims. allegedly for having an “illegal living space” answer his questions. Longport tried to The banner planes may or may not make on the first floor of their home. stop O’Boyle’s videotaping, but a judge an appearance this summer, O’Boyle said.

Photo by Don P. Hurley June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 51 Welcome to AtlAntic city

To all our Atlantic City visitors, the members of UNITE HERE! Local 54, the hotel and restaurant employees union, extend a warm and sincere welcome. The members of UNITE HERE! Local 54 are professionals in Atlantic City’s hospitality industry and we take our responsibility of making you feel welcome and comfortable very seriously. We hope that your stay here will be enhanced by good service and, if you’d like to reward an employee for that good service, here are a few guidelines you may wish to consider.

Bartenders & Cocktail Waitresses: Showroom Maitre d’s & Ushers: We thank Most casinos offer free drinks to players In a few showrooms where seating is not at tables and slot machines. A tip of reserved but remains at the discretion of you for staying $1-$2 is the norm for good service. the Maitre d’, a tip of $5 to $20 helps you If you get a round of drinks (four or more), get your desired seating. You might want you might add a few extra dollars. to tip the usher a few dollars ($2-$5) with us and hope for his or her courtesy even if you have Bell Captain, Bellman & Doorman: pre-assigned seating. that our service The usual tip is $1-$2 per bag. The bell and door staff are also a valuable source Restaurant & Room Service: of information and can perform many Waiters and waitresses usually encourages a services, such as arranging for shows receive 15-20% of the bill, depending or travel, so tipping an extra $5 is not on the service. return visit in the unreasonable. Also, give $1 or $2 to the Valet Parking Attendants: doorman who calls a cab for you. A tip of $1-$2 each time the attendant near future. Maids/Housekeepers: takes or brings your car is appreciated. $2 a day per person is suggested, Buffet Severs: usually left at the end of your visit. A few dollars per person for drink service Showroom Servers: and busing the table during the meal is $5 to $10 for a party of two to four at a appreciated. UNITE HERE! cocktail show only; $10-$20 for a dinner show for the same size group depending a century of LocaL 54 on service. excellence

Our Mediterranean Bar & Grill Both photos on this page by Ginny Leith is proof that fine dining doesn’t have to be out of reach. “I think we have to see what the mayor’s $400,000 and $500,000 buying ads, renting Dixon Associates to conduct a traffic study The creative sourcing of fresh intentions are,” O’Boyle said. “If he is planes, paying for attorneys and filing suits. on angled parking in the borough. produce and attention to detail, combined with outstanding willing to run the town, I think that’s great. His wife has told him to give it a rest. He’s If you ask O’Boyle, he’ll tell you his antics service, stylish décor and All I want is for Longport to be restored to thought about it. have not only had an impact – they have fabulous location, makes a nice town.” this the perfect venue for “My wife keeps saying, ‘Why don’t we just been successful. any occasion. O’Boyle’s tactics cost money. Lots of it. forget it? It’s costing us a lot of money. It’s “There’s a certain irony to this,” O’Boyle He estimates he has easily spent between too much. Why don’t we leave it alone?’” said in April. “This all started over a local Our Mediterranean grill features a variety of delicious O’Boyle said. “I say, ‘What do I tell all the ordinance that they said I was in violation of, meals to suit the taste of every people who supported me? I got what I Chapter 99. And last night, at the planning member in your family. want, so you’re on your own now?’” board meeting, they acknowledged that it We are currently celebrating If I have the ability to right the wrong, I was poor legislation ... and they appointed our 4th season on the want to right the wrong,” O’Boyle said. me to help re-write it.” Boardwalk in Atlantic City. “There isn’t a lot that anybody can do to me O’Boyle is ready and willing to heed that call. We offer the finest in authentic that hasn’t already been done.” Mediterranean cuisine and professional service along with And so it goes on. Recently, O’Boyle the best patio on the Boardwalk We look forward to serving you! looked into whether Borough Hall was that makes you feel like you fully handicapped accessible, and was told are dining in South Beach! Valet service also it was. Still, he paid for his own study to see Join us this season as we will be provided if the building met the legal standards (he featuring many new menu items claims it does not). He also recently hired as well as familiar favorites. California & Boardwalk, Atlantic City, N J • (609) 344 7774 • flamesac.com

52 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 53 AC Surf w/photos

The Rise and Fall of

the Atlantic City Surf All Bernie Robbins Stadium photos by Don P. Hurley April ,2009 54 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 Juneby 2009 Chuck Betson The Boardwalk Journal | 55 TThe date was May 20, 1998. The place was bond trader on Wall Street who evolved Frank Dougherty City and the fans flocked into the stadium. could save the Surf. And Schuster’s Sandcastle Stadium, a gleaming new $11.5 into a mercurial minor league baseball and the New The team drew more than 8,000 fans in group stiffed the CRDA and the City of million structure funded by the Casino entrepreneur. Boulton founded the Atlantic Jersey Education 2003 for the 4th of July of show, an Atlantic Atlantic City; they didn’t pay the rent for Reinvestment Development Authority ($8.5 League because he wanted to bring baseball Association, the League record at the time. 21 months, after a 2008 season when the million) and the taxpayers of Atlantic City to his beloved Long Island, N.Y., where he Surf instituted a Finally tired of operating the team at a club claimed attendance had improved ($3 million). believed it would flourish. reading program dramatically under Surf team President in the schools that loss, despite his success with the Ducks There was a sense of anticipation in the air He had approached the New York Mets and in Long Island, Boulton eventually sold Chris Carminucci. as the last seats were being nailed down New York Yankees about bringing an affiliated rewarded children the team to a group of investors, Ventura The stadium operated under a somewhat and a crowd of 5,900 settled in to await the team to the Long Island area, but they didn’t with free Surf Sports Inc., headed by Mark Schuster, unconventional agreement, where the City game between the Atlantic City Surf and seem receptive to the idea. Undaunted, tickets for reading books. A unique marketing after the 2006 season. of Atlantic City leased it to the CRDA and the Somerset Patriots of the newly-formed Boulton formed the independent Atlantic arrangement with AtlantiCare led to police the CRDA then leased it to the team. It was Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. League and by 2000 he had the Long Island patrols on bikes awarding free tickets to Schuster billed himself and his company as The Atlantic City Ducks up and running. The franchise would children wearing bike helmets throughout specializing in “turnarounds,” but after the called a sweetheart lease by many baseball Jitney Association the summer. And the group sales department, insiders. Under its terms, the team only had eventually become one of the more successful 2008 season, citing the uncertain future, serves the needs of the local led by John Kiphorn, reached out to churches to pay $75,000 per season with a provision franchises in minor league history, drawing the development of Bader Field and the community as well as the and Kiwanis Clubs. for more if the team exceeded $700,000 6,000 fans per night. lack of cooperation from the city as major millions of visitors to Atlantic in tickets sales. That only happened once, But it was the team’s mascot, Splash, that reasons, the team turned around and left City. We provide convenient, That success allowed Boulton to operate the after the 1999 season. Surf at a loss. The Atlantic City club would was an integral part of the community, town, leaving Atlantic City without baseball on-time transportation to draw sellouts on fireworks night, but could making appearances throughout the year. and the stadium without a tenant. Still, the Surf did add to the quality of life in various points in Atlantic City. Players would come and go but Splash was never sustain that on nights when just baseball The Surf joined the Atlantic City Seagulls, the Greater Atlantic City area and provided a constant symbol of the team and what it Jitney Color-Coded was played. There was no shortage of theories the Atlantic City Card Sharks and the baseball fans a chance to see Ruben Sierra, meant to the community. as to why the Surf couldn’t draw on a regular Boardwalk Bullies as minor league Kim Batiste and other former major leaguers route numbers basis: The stadium should have been built at The price seemed to be right for a family franchises to leave Atlantic City. However, who were trying to revive their careers. And the race track; the team was not affiliated; the outing: A family of four could attend for all of those teams had much shorter tenures the other teams in the Atlantic League, like #1 Pink area lacked a sense of identity; Atlantic City just $26. Plus, the view of the Atlantic City than the Surf. the Newark Bears, featured players such as New Hampshire Ave. to The first batter hit a fly ball to center field, was not a place for family entertainment and skyline from the stadium was spectacular, Rickey Henderson and Jose Canseco. Jackson Ave. via Pacific Ave. which Surf center fielder Gerald Young the last thing casinos workers wanted to do turning fireworks nights into one of those rare The exit was particularly painful to New Jersey State Senator Jim Whelan, who Under Perrucci, the Surf featured manager promptly dropped. was drive back into the city after working feel-good moments in Atlantic City. Still, the Mitch Williams and hitting coach Greg #2 Blue their shifts. Surf struggled at the gate; with every season was the mayor of Atlantic City when the And so began the ill-fated journey of the Luzinski, trying to capitalize on the Marina Area-Trump Marina, showing less and less fan support. stadium was built. Atlantic City Surf. The Surf lost that first game There was some merit in all of these, but the Philadelphia Phillies popularity in the Harrah’s, Borgata via Delaware to Somerset but eventually won the hearts best theory probably was that the population Some of it was inevitable as the “newness” “Hey, 11 years isn’t bad,” Whelan said area, but attendance was still lackluster, as Ave. to Pacific Ave. of some die-hard locals who came out every base of Atlantic and Cape May counties (about of the product wore off and children grew when the Surf left. “We had some great the team struggled to average 2,000 fans game to support the minor league ball club. 280,000) was just not enough to support a up. And the Surf could never really develop nights there.” per game. #3 Green baseball team. That fact was ignored when the a fan base in Atlantic City, as the majority of Unfortunately, there weren’t enough of them Current Atlantic City Mayor Lorenzo “Build it and they will come” is one of Marina Area-Borgata, Harrah’s, CRDA dollars were being doled out. people came from the mainland communities Trump Marina via Dr. Martin and 11 years later, prior to the 2009 season, Langford said he never heard from Schuster baseball’s famous litanies from the legendary the Surf folded, leaving the stadium to the Still, the Surf tried. Under the direction of of Northfield, Linwood, Somers Point and concerning the Surf since he took office. Luther King Jr. Blvd. to Inlet on Field of Dreams movie. In Atlantic City, Pacific Ave. New Convention pigeons and the naysayers who said baseball general manager Mario Perrucci, who arrived Galloway Township. “Don’t blame the city for your own they built it and some of them came, just Center/Train Station, Bus Station would never thrive in Atlantic City. in 2001 and remained until 2007, the team But there were some watershed moments, deficiencies,” Langford said of the Surf’s not enough. But the memories prevail on a reached out to the community in a variety like on the 4th of July when the Surf would But it did for all those years, under the exit. “It was never the same after Super warm night when the summer wind comes #4 OranGe direction of owner Frank Boulton, a former of ways. With the help of retired educator provide the only fireworks shows in Atlantic Mario (Perrucci) left.” blowing in from across the sea and if you New Convention Center/Train Not even a move into a new league with close your eyes and listen, you can almost Station, Bus Station via Pacific a shorter season (the Can-Am League), hear “Surf’s up!” one more time. Ave. from Jackson Ave. to Indiana Ave. Borgata, Harrah’s, Trump Marina

For information about Regular Jitney Service, Train Station Jitney Service, Lost and Found or Ticket Programs, call 609-344-8642

June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 57 The grounds mimic the historic links of if he knew his offspring were selling the “A lot of clubs like to bill themselves as Scotland in the 12th century, when golf institution, Jim replied, “If we don’t make country clubs for a day to the daily fee was born. Bayside, bracketed by our tidal the deal, my dad would come out of the player,” said Charles Fahy, director of marshes and hemmed with the Atlantic ground and kill me.” The deal was good, golf operations for Harrah’s. “But here at City skyline, course architects have the time was right and the Frasers moved Atlantic City Country Club, we truly are created a masterpiece over the years. From on. that. The club is semi-private, which means the original layout created in 1897, famed Park Place Entertainment, who bought that we are open to the public, as well as ACCC architect William Flynn redesigned the the club, brought in Tom Doak and his have a limited number of memberships course in 1925 to such perfection that his Renaissance Golf Design team for a available. We keep the course in tour-like plan remained in place for more than 70 major overhaul of the course in 1999. condition and everything we do is done years. During much of that time, the club This revamping was, to some extent, a with integrity, keeping the history and was owned by the Fraser family. restoration to the original 1897 design. traditions of the club in mind.” The clubhouse is peppered with tributes Doak’s team preserved the historical Atlantic City Country Club’s great to the late and legendary Leo Fraser, course while improving conditions. golf and nostalgia keep golfers coming an Atlantic City golf pioneer and past Certain areas were restored to the sand back. But the appeal of the course also president of the PGA. About a year after that was a distinct feature of the course includes the many sports legends that Fraser returned home from fighting in back at the time of its birth. The course’s have played there. World War II, when the club was being run fast, firm greens were maintained and the In May, the club hosted the Ivy League by a handful of Atlantic City hotel owners sweeping backdrop of the Atlantic City Championship, with some of the finest and in dire need of upgrades and repairs, skyline lived on. student athletes in the country competing In a Class the hotel owners asked Fraser to come Through the initial years of Park for coveted Men’s and Ladies’ Ivy League aboard as manager of the establishment. Place Entertainment’s ownership, the Golf titles. The course has been host to six by Itself But Fraser didn’t want to manage the Atlantic City Country Club thrived USGA championships, as well. club; he wanted to own it. There was as a resort course and a haven for the In 1901, Walter Travis - of golf course Photo by Don P. Hurley by Don P. Photo By Beverly Bird one small hitch: He might have gone into casino’s high rollers. Then the world’s military service as a private and emerged architectural fame - won the U.S. Amateur largest gaming company, Harrah’s here. In 1911, the club’s professional at a major through battlefield promotions, Entertainment, took over. In 2005, the What do you get when you blend an a wager that his ball would find its home with a par-four, 450-yarder that rates as the the time, Johnny J. McDermott, became but Fraser, just recently home from the course was opened by Harrah’s to the award-winning golf course, sports greats, on the next shot, one under par. It did, and seventh most difficult hole on the course. the first American to win the USGA war, had no money. general public for daily fee play. and sweet nostalgia? The Atlantic City from that time on, any shot that led to a Then, things lighten up a bit for the next This did not deter him. He borrowed $2,000 Country Club - and that’s not even taking one-under-par score came to be known three holes before passing through a nail- from a smorgasbord of individuals, made into account the birdies. as a “bird” and then, more familiarly, a biter stretch at holes five, six and seven. the deal, and is responsible for creating the “birdie.” A plaque near the practice green The sixth hole is a 592-yard challenge that Those would be the small, white, round foundation of the masterpiece that the club commemorates the event. is rated as the number-one handicap hole. kind when they drop into a cup one remains today. Hole 14 is beautifully scenic, but the tee under par. The golf course, now owned by History abounds at this venerable course. The Atlantic City Country Club stayed shot is over a salt marsh, which complicates Harrah’s Entertainment, holds the proud There’s a bell hanging near the drive by the in the Fraser family until 1998. Leo died things a bit. distinction of being “The Birthplace of the clubhouse that, back at the beginning of in 1986, and his sons, Jim and Doug, and Birdie.” When the Atlantic City Country last century, was tolled at the end of the The course has been ranked eighth among daughter, Bonnie (with husband Don), Club first opened its doors more than 100 day to warn golfers that the final trolley the best to play in the state of New Jersey stepped up. They rebuilt the Sonny Fraser years ago, in the language of the times the was about to leave for Atlantic City. That by Golf Digest. Golf Week Magazine Room, created the Leo Fraser Library and word “bird” implied something great, over bell has survived the segue from trolleys named the Atlantic City Country Club a new practice facility and added on to the the top and worthy of applause. Legend to passenger cars and it still rings daily in the best public/daily fee course in New dining room. Then, they opted to sell the has it that sometime in the early years of tribute to golfers long gone. Jersey. And Golf and Travel tagged it as club. last century, Ab Smith, his brother, Will P. one of the Best 40 Resort Courses in the What does all this mean for avid golfers, The Frasers’ decision to sell was not well Smith, and their friend, George Crump, country, making it not just the only resort both seasoned pros and amateurs alike? received. The place was not just a golf were playing the par-four second hole at course in New Jersey to make the list, but Every hole here is worthy of champions club. It was a social center of South Jersey. the club when Ab’s second shot nudged the only course north of Virginia and east but a handful are kind to beginners, as well. But when someone commented to Jim up just inches shy of its target. Ab declared of Illinois to earn the honor. The layout begins a little on the nasty side, that his father would roll over in his grave Photo by Don P. Hurley that this was “a bird of a shot” and made

58 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 June 2009 The Boardwalk Journal | 59 Championship at the tender age of hottest names in modern sports joined the club is offering up another piece of Atlantic City nineteen. Babe Didrikson Zaharias won Ron Jaworski in a Celebrity Shoot-Out the past - ballroom dancing from 6 to 10 the first of her Open titles there. Golf fans just recently. The televised event featured p.m., including a deluxe dinner entree. paid $2.50 to watch the final round on a a star-studded list of golfers from Bill Reservations would probably be a good A Place We Call Home Sunday in 1948 and see the best female Cowher and Mike Ditka to Jim Kelly and idea for this one. players battle for a $7,500 purse put up by Joe Theismann. The course is open daily, with breakfast 55 Atlantic City businessmen. In 1975, As far as the social scene, the Atlantic and lunch served. Happy hour is from the U.S. Women’s Open was played there City Country Club offers a first-class 4 to 6 p.m., with half price tap beers and Sandra Palmer recorded one of only clubhouse and a top-notch dining and martinis and a culinary bar menu. two rounds under par all week, largely due facility. “The 111-year-old Tap Room Bar Dinner is served Friday and Saturday to that fierce South Jersey wind we’ve all and Grill is open for breakfast, lunch and nights and the club’s popular Sunday encountered a time or two. The wind was dinner, and our Sunday brunches have brunch is offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., blowing so hard during the final round been very well received,” Fahy said. serving up great food, atmosphere, and that Palmer was one of only three players live entertainment. to shoot par on the last day. That same Once per month, the club offers the tournament was also the first major event ladies a treat as well with “Girls Night “When you think of amazing food or for Nancy Lopez, who is considered the Out”: $5 martinis, drink and appetizer great golf, we hope you come see us at best female player of all time. specials, discounts on golf merchandise, Atlantic City Country Club,” Fahy said. $12 massages and complimentary And, of course, we can’t leave out the manicures. And on Saturday, June 27, football and baseball greats. Some of the Bet you didn’t know We’re looking for your ideas. By Ken Calemmo We LOVE Atlantic City and want to see it be the best that it can be. You’re creative! Let us know in one hundred • The Absecon Lighthouse is now the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey words or less your ideas on how to make Atlantic City and the third tallest in the United States. Part of the construction was overseen by a young lieutenant George Meade who later even better. If we like it, we’ll publish it in the next commanded the Union Army at Gettysburg. First lit edition of Boardwalk Journal and also place it on the on January 15, 1857, the lighthouse has recently undergone Boardwalk Journal and Cooper Levenson websites. $3.5 million in renovations. Located at Rhode Island and Pacific Who knows, your idea could change a city. Avenues, it is open Thursday through Monday 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. • On April 16, 1876, Atlantic City businessmen put together the first “official” Easter parade on the Boardwalk promising citations for the ‘Best Dressed’ in various categories. My • Salt water taffy was originated in Atlantic City. Legend has it that during a major storm of 1883, candy store owner David Bradley IDEAL and his entire stock of taffy was soaked by the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic City When a young girl asked if he had any taffy, he offered her some “salt water taffy”, and the rest is history. Don’t leave town without bringing home a box of Atlantic City Salt Water Taffy. • The ever-present Atlantic City jitney found its beginning in 1915 earning its name for what was then slang for a nickel – the fare for a ride. The vehicles have changed and so has the price of a ride, but at $2.25, it is still the best way to get around A.C. Send your ideas to Send your ideas to Ken Calemmo - Ken Calemmo – DO Y YOUOU HA HAVEVE A [email protected] eetings [email protected] QUESTION ABOUT Gr ATLANTICATLANTIC CITY

Photo by Don P. Hurley by Don P. Photo HISTORY? Send it in and check out the next issue of the Boardwalk Journal to see if your question was selected. Send questions to [email protected]. 60 | The Boardwalk Journal June 2009 Ocean City Boardwalk

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