V23 N44

Q&A

Chat With Edward Elf

Of The North Pole P 10

Hey Ninny-Muggins,

It’s The Elf Issue!

Food & Drink

Guide! P 18-24

EXIT ZERO

CAPE MAY’S PEPPY PERIODICAL • DECEMBER 11, 2025 • VOLUME 23, NUMBER 44

The 60th West Cape May

Christmas Parade PAGES 14-37

Christmas Party At Behr

Brewing Company PAGES 38-42

The tree-lighting at Congress Hall’s Winter Wonderland on December 6 was a crowd-pleaser. Pictured

are Suryana, Lilah, Elena, Mackenzie and Leah — many more photos next week! Aleksey Moryakov

Christmas At The Naval Air

Station Hangar PAGES 43-53

Page 2 EXIT ZERO December 11, 2025

12/6: Breakfast With Santa At E.M. Hemingway’s At The Grand Hotel

Scarlett Kane, Blake Ford Asher, Pierce, Morgan and Joel Donlon Megan, Steve, Albert, Ryan

Beach Plum Farm

HOLIDAY

DINNER SERIES

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in the

warm glow of Beach Plum Farm’s rustic, yet elegant

hoop house. This multi-course meal, served family style,

highlights our pasture-raised turkeys, heritage pork,

winter vegetables and fresh herbs.

Thursday - Saturday Starting December 4

Learn More & Reserve at

BeachPlumFarmCapeMay.com

140 Stevens Street

West Cape May, NJ 08204

December 11, 2025 EXIT ZERO Page 3

Kitchen:

Sun-Thu 11:30-9

& Fri-Sat 11:30-10

12/6: Breakfast With Santa At E.M.

Hemingway’s At The Grand Hotel

Happy Hour

Mon-Sat 3-6pm

DirecTV NFL Ticket

All Day Sunday

Lisa, Barbara, Dena (60th birthday celebration), Judy

3729 Bayshore Road, North Cape May

609-889-7000 • 5WestPub.com

Adored by

Visitors...

Loved by

Locals!

Caruso family

THANK YOU FOR A GREAT SEASON

Reopening in February!

Beach & Grant 609-884-3772


Marchetti family

A Cape May

Classic

live music @ 10

10pm

DEC 11 - STAY ACOUSTIQUE

DEC 12 - DEAR ZOE

DEC 13 - CANDIFLYP

OPEN DAILY FOR INSIDE AND OUTSIDE DINING

All Your Favorite Mug Dishes!

426 WASHINGTON STREET • 609-884-3459 Follow us on Facebook

OPEN DAILY + YEAR-ROUND

INDOOR & OUTDOOR SEATING

400 WASHINGTON STREET • 609-770-8559




Globally Inspired Comfort Food

& Expertly Crafted Cocktails

OPEN DAILY @ 4

Thum family

106 DECATUR STREET, CAPE MAY

609-888-6095 capemaycricketclub.com

LIVE

MUSIC

NIGHTLY!

Mon-Thu 6-8

Fri & Sat 7-10

Sundays

Open Mic 6-9

Foster Family

A Cape May Tradition

Family Owned & Argued Over Since 1976!

OPEN DAILY

• Breakfast & Lunch 8am-2:45pm

• Dinner from 3pm

19 Jackson Street, Cape May

609-884-5970 madbatter.com

Ralph, Julia and family


I

am crossing the Atlantic this week to

watch my usually mediocre soccer team

play in a cup final no one expected them

to reach, and to see my old mum (these

items may or may not have been listed

in order of priority). And it got me thinking

about Christmas here and over there.

Most of us grew up thinking Christmas

represents a tidy bundle of evergreens, family

meals, carols, a man in red with a unionized

reindeer workforce, and a vague sense

that this all dates back to, oh, the dawn of

time. But the truth — delightfully messier,

and not a little political — is that Christmas

in both the US and UK has been reinvented

more times than a Victorian dining room

after a new wallpaper shipment.

Neither country has owned Christmas.

It’s a migrant holiday, a magpie holiday, a

holiday that keeps borrowing other people’s

shiny customs and then acting like

it invented them. In Medieval and Tudor

England, they treated it as a full-on, 12-day

affair — from Christmas Day through

Epiphany on January 6 — with feasting,

church services and rowdy communal fun.

(Yes, that’s where the song comes from.)

Then came the 17th century Puritans,

who looked at all this merriment and said,

“Nuh-uh, dudes,” or words to that effect.

During the English Civil War, Christmas

celebrations were officially suppressed

(1640s through 1659). When the monarchy

returned in 1660, Christmas gradually

returned, too.

But the biggest makeover — the one

that gives us something recognizably modern

— arrived in the 19th century. The Victorians

didn’t so much invent Christmas as

curate it into a brand-new mood: domestic,

child-centered, charitable and cozy. Queen

Victoria and Prince Albert popularized the

decorated Christmas tree in Britain, a German

import that became a national obsession

once royal images of the family around

the tree circulated (Queen Vic loved to post on

Facebook). Christmas cards become fashionable.

So did crackers, devised in the 1840s

by a London confectioner — because nothing

says “holiday spirit” like a small paper

explosion at the dinner table. I’m bringing

Ramblings From The Editor

Ideas, idle gossip and occasionally important odds ’n’ ends... by Jack Wright

crackers back this year, whether my wife

likes it or not. Just ordered a dozen online. It’s

not Christmas dinner without them.

And, of course, there was Dickens. A

Christmas Carol (1843) doesn’t just give Britain

a cranky old miser to redeem once a year,

it helps cement Christmas as a season of

generosity, family warmth and social conscience.

The Victorians essentially took the

older 12-day party and repacked it into a sentimental,

hearth-centered holiday.

On this side of the Atlantic, Christmas

arrived with the settlers — and immediately

ran into local politics. In some colonies, celebrations

were lively, especially where Dutch

and other European traditions took root.

Dutch settlers in New Netherland (around

today’s New York and parts of New Jersey)

brought Sinterklaas customs, including

gift-giving around early December, which

later fed directly into Santa lore.

But New England? Way different vibe.

The Puritans who settled Massachusetts Bay

disapproved of Christmas as too tied to old

European excess. The colony even banned

public Christmas celebration in 1659, fining

people for feasting or skipping work.

So for a while, Christmas in America

was regional and uneven. It survived in

pockets — among Anglicans in the South,

Dutch communities in the Mid-Atlantic

and Catholics elsewhere. That changed in

the early 19th century when writers and

civic leaders began to deliberately reshape

it into something that promoted family life

and social stability in a fast-changing country.

Washington Irving played a big role in

romanticizing old St. Nicholas traditions in

1809’s A History of New York. In 1823, Clement

Clarke Moore’s poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas”

gave Americans the sleigh, the chimney,

and the eight named reindeer (Rudolph

was added later by a genius ad man).

By mid-century, the iconography locked

in. Artist Thomas Nast’s drawings in the

1860s helped standardize Santa’s look as

jolly and bearded. And in 1870, Christmas

became a federal holiday.

From there, America did what America

does: it scaled. Department stores turned

Christmas into a commercial juggernaut.

Greeting cards, mass-produced ornaments,

electric lights, and later radio and film folded

Christmas firmly into popular culture.

One of my favorite historical oddities

is that both the UK and the US had serious

“Christmas is canceled” phases, and both

backed away from that position when people

refused to stop enjoying themselves

And then both countries were re-given

Christmas in the 1800s, mostly via cultural

soft power: literature, art and newly sentimental

notions of childhood. The Victorians

and the New Yorkers were accidentally — or

maybe not so accidentally — collaborators

in creating what we now take for granted.

So when you pull a cracker in London or

hang stockings in New Jersey, you’re participating

in a tradition that is less a straight

line than an out-of-control zigzag. The UK

supplied a medieval feast calendar, a Puritan

interruption, and a Victorian redesign.

The US supplied Dutch Sinterklaas

roots, a parallel Puritan interruption, and a

19th-century literary Santa who moves into

every chimney on the continent.

And Cape May? It supplies the scenery.

A pocket of America where the Victorian

chapter didn’t just happen — it stuck around,

got lovingly restored, and now throws a holiday

party that feels like a handshake across

centuries and across the Atlantic.

If that’s not the spirit of Christmas —

borrowing, blending, reviving, and then

inviting everyone over to admire the lights

— I’m not sure what is.

Now, Santa, please give me a St. Mirren

victory in Sunday’s cup final!




Arnone and Cassel family

Simmons family


The Duvert family

Romantic Seaside Getaway

9 Luxury Guest Rooms

Serving Dinner Nightly

Beginning at 5:00pm

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Live Piano Thursday-Monday

1301 Beach Avenue | cape may | 609.884.9090

WWW.PETERSHIELDSINN.COM


ABOUT EXIT ZERO

Editor & Publisher Jack Wright

jack@exitzero.com

Digital Manager Kayla Jordan

kayla@exitzero.com

Photographer Aleksey Moryakov

info@alekseyphotography.com

For more information

609-241-2632 / info@exitzero.com

Website exitzero.com

Every Thursday, Exit Zero magazine

is delivered to around 300

establishments in the area. Get a

jump on it early by reading online

every Tuesday morning!

TO ADVERTISE

«This magazine is funded entirely

through advertising, so please

support the advertisers featured in

these pages! If you’re interested in

becoming an advertiser, we offer

very affordable packages. Give us a

holler on 609-241-2632 or write to

us at info@exitzero.com.

CLIPART CONTEST!

«In every issue, we hide a graphic

(related to our themed issue) in an

ad. Can you find it? Enter by filling

out the form at exitzero.com/clipart.

Entries must be sent by December 18.

Winner gets a $25 electronic gift card

for Exit Zero online store! The winner’s

name will be posted on our Facebook

page each Thursday. Here’s the exact

size of the image!


Q&A

Edward The Elf, Senior Toy

Manager From North Pole

It’s the Elf Issue, so Jack Wright chatted with Edward the Elf

(not his real name), who took time out from final toy production

to speak with us (hey, don’t be a skeptical Scrooge!).

We are a couple weeks away from Christmas.

What are you working on right now? The big toys

and grand delights were finished weeks ago. Now

it’s the clever little bits — tiny clockwork songbirds,

puzzle boxes that open only when you laugh, mittens

that stay warm even when wet. Also, some

emergency repairs. Some gifts come back to us — a

train that won’t chuff right, a doll whose eyes blink a

bit too slowly. I mend and recalibrate.

What’s the most requested gift this year? Oh,

you’ll laugh, because it isn’t one single thing so

much as a theme. The most requested gift this year

is “something that helps me feel less lonely and

more like myself.” It comes dressed up as different

wishes — headphones, art sets, a soccer ball, a

puppy, even a simple journal with a good pen. But

the thread running through the letters is clear as

starlight: connection, comfort, confidence.

How about that old Christmas classic, the

bike? Oh, the bike never leaves the lists — it just

changes its coat. The letters that ask for bikes tend

to be wonderfully specific: “A bike I can ride with my

dad.” “A sturdy one so I can get to school myself.” “A

purple one with a basket.”

Purple? That’s interesting. Why purple? Heh

— purple shows up more often than you’d think.

Purple sits halfway between fiery red and calm blue.

Kids who are growing into themselves reach for colors

that feel a bit mysterious and a bit bold. Princes,

witches, astronauts, superheroes, enchanted forests

— purple wanders through all those tales. It

carries a whiff of magic without being too sparkly.

What about books? Kids have their eyes on

screens so often. Are books still a thing? Oh, books

are absolutely still a thing! If anything, they’ve

become a kind of secret treasure again.

How many elves are employed by Santa, and is

there job security? “Employed” is such a mortals’

word. We’re more like a clan than a company. Still,

if you want a number for your magazine, on a normal

year, you’ll find several thousand of us working

in the Pole’s rings — toycraft, lorekeeping, sleighwrighting,

cocoa governance, reindeer care, and the

whole shimmering circus of it. Closer to Christmas,

that swells. We’re not shy about calling in cousins

from the Hidden Groves, the Hearth-Hills, and the

Workshop Satellites. So the count shifts like snowdrifts.

If you printed a number, it would be wrong

by tomorrow.

Do you guys ever watch Christmas movies?

And if so, which are your favorites? Oh, absolutely

we do. After a day of hammering, stitching,

enchanting, and pretending not to notice the reindeer

getting dramatic in the stables, an elf needs to

flop somewhere warm and let someone else tell the

story for a while. Here are the favorites that come up

most around the cocoa kettles... Arthur Christmas

The closest any film has come to capturing how chaotic

the North Pole can feel when it’s humming at

full tilt. Klaus It understands something deep: that

traditions are made, not born. The Muppet Christmas

Carol Don’t ask why a troupe of felt creatures

playing Victorian heartbreak works so well… it just

does. It’s A Wonderful Life Some elves pretend this

is “too human” for us, but they’re lying. We watch

continued on page 12



Uncle Bill’s

Open Mon-Fri 7am-2pm

& Sat-Sun 6:30am-2

-2pm

Megan, Steve, Albert, Ryan

Visit with Santa Bill 12/20 & 12/21 from 8am-12pm

BEACH & PERRY, CAPE MAY

Brewer family

Stephanie, Sadie

Jeff, Lora


continued from page 10

it for the same reason you do: it reminds you

that small goodness is never small. Honorable

mention: Home Alone Is it a Christmas

movie? We say yes. Also… the traps. Elves

appreciate a well-built trap. Purely academically,

of course.

What do you think of the Hallmark

Channel? I have to confess it’s a favorite of

mine. Ahh... the human realm’s great river

of twinkle and predictable kisses. If it warms

your winter bones, it’s doing its job.

How about Polar Express? You didn’t

mention that movie. Do you like it? We’ve got

feelings about that one — warm ones, mostly,

with a little friendly grumble because the

elves are a bit too… toy-soldier. We’re messier,

funnier, more improvised.

Do elves drink alcohol? You’re always so

cheery. A fair question, and kindly asked, too.

Some do, some don’t. We’re not all carved

from the same peppermint stick.

I’m sure you’ve heard about Cape May.

It’s regularly rated one of the best Christmas

towns in the country. What are your impressions

of it? We’ve heard of it — some of us

have even slipped through on cold Atlantic

winds to have a peek. Most holiday towns

lean mountain snowglobe or main street

pine. Cape May does something rarer: Victorian

warmth against a wintry shore. The

gingerbread trim, gas-lamp glow, and Dickens-y

storefronts feel like a living card. Then

you add beach air and the hush of off-season

tides, and suddenly it’s your own kind

of magic. Cape May is like a seaside Dickens

village that decided to throw a Hallmark party

and invite the ocean.

How beautifully put. What does Cape

May NOT have that you think it should have?

Ooh, I like this question — because it’s not

a knock, it’s a wish. I would say Cape May’s

Christmas vibe is wonderfully cozy and early

evening. But a lot of adults want a second act.

Not a rowdy one — just softer, classy midnight

cheer. Maybe Victorian candlelit jazz

in small venues, a “nightcap & carols” walk,

a dessert trail that stays open late. It complements

the town’s romantic reputation without

changing its character.

Describe a perfect family Christmas Eve

in Cape May. Start late morning with a cozy

breakfast, then bundle up for a Cape May

MAC holiday trolley ride or a stroll past the

gingerbread houses. After lunch, do Washington

Street Mall at an unhurried pace: hot

chocolate in mittened hands, last-minute

browsing, and a stop to watch carolers. As

dusk comes early, head to Congress Hall’s

Winter Wonderland. Let the little ones ride

the carousel or the train, wander the shopping

village. Then home (or to your favorite

restaurant) for an early supper. If your family

likes a quieter pause, slip into a candlelight

service at one of the historic churches before

the night gets too late. Before bedtime, take a

final beach walk. Finish with one small ritual

— reading ’Twas the Night Before Christmas,

hanging a single special ornament, or leaving

cookies out.

To finish up, what would be your last

meal on earth? Ohh, a deliciously mortal

question. A bowl of clam chowder, a simple

roast chicken with herbs, crisp skin, potatoes

that went golden in the pan, and a pile of buttered

winter vegetables. Plus a thick slice of

fresh sourdough, still warm, with too much

butter. All of it washed down with spiced

cider and, for dessert, gingerbread cake

soaked in a little molasses and orange, with

whipped cream and candied peel.

Open Daily @ 5pm

Early Seating Menu Sun-Fri 5-5:30pm

Booking holiday parties through

the end of the year

Fine Dining | Reservations via Resy app or by phone

413 South Broadway, Cape May | 609-849-9255 | granabyob.com


Grana BYOB is the dream of executive chef/

owner Carl Messick. This 68-seat restaurant

features a seasonally changing menu, using

fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

NEW JERSEY’S PREMIER

FARM-TO-BOTTLE DISTILLERY

Tours · Cocktails · Live Music · Spirits · Gifts

Tasting room: Sun-Wed 12-8pm & Thu-Sat 12-10pm

Thursday, Dec 11 - Stephanie Ball 6-9pm

Friday, Dec 12 - Ben Rynes 6-9pm

Saturday, Dec 13 - Gordon Vincent6-9pm

Sunday, Dec 14 - Brian Kmetz 3-6pm

Every Monday thru Thursday

916 Shunpike Road, North Cape May · 609-770-3381 · Nautispirits.com · @nautispirits


12/6: The 60th Annual West Cape

May Christmas Community Parade

Cape May’s Newest Neighborhood Shop & Market

unique foodie gifts • pantry items • global snacks

Ami, Carol, Alex, Lainey

Come say hi and find your new favorite snack!

316 Beach Avenue 2 BLOCKS FROM CONGRESS HALL

Open through New Year’s

Serving Lunch Tue-Sat from 11am-2pm

& Dinner Mon-Sat from 4:30pm

Kiara, Lauren, John

322 Washington Street Mall, Cape May

609-884-9119 TISHASFINEDINING.COM


Santa and his helpers



12/6: The 60th Annual West Cape May Christmas Community Parade

Joanne Reagan Dance Studio


THE ULTIMATE CAPE MAY FOOD & DRINK GUIDE

What You Need

To Know About

The Food And

The Ambience

Meals

Served

Price Of

Entrées

Bar Or

BYOB?

Should I

Book?

Food For

Kids?

Other

Details

BEACH PLUM BAKERY AND CAFE

484 W. Perry Street, Cape May

(609) 770-8261

caperesorts.com

Enjoy fresh, farm-to-table bakery items along with La

Colombe coffee drinks. Start the morning with delicious

sweet breads, muffins, scones and cookies.

Coffee &

Snacks

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

N/A NO YES

b

H U

BEACH PLUM FARM

140 Stevens Street, Cape May

(609) 602-0128

beachplumfarmcapemay.com

BLUE PIG TAVERN

200 Congress Place, Cape May

(609) 884-8422

caperesorts.com/bluepigtavern

BOILER ROOM


(609) 884-8421

caperesorts.com/boilerroom

CAPE MAY FISH MARKET

408 Washington Street, Cape May

(609) 770-3790

capemayfishmarket.com

THE CRICKET CLUB

106 Decatur Street, Cape May

(609) 888-6095

capemaycricketclub.com

DELANEY’S IRISH PUB & GRILL


(609) 770-8559

delaneyscapemay.com

DOGTOOTH

100 East Taylor Avenue, Wildwood

(609) 522-8383

dogtoothbar.com

THE EBBITT ROOM


(609) 884-5700

caperesorts.com/ebbittroom

EL PUEBLO TAQUERIA


(609) 600-3793

elpueblotaqueria.com

E. M. HEMINGWAY’S

1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May

(609) 884-5611

hemingwayscapemay.com

Enjoy the quiet beauty of this 62-acre farm in West Cape

May and then indulge in the farm-to-table treats for

breakfast or lunch. The soups, salads, sandwiches and

juices are excellent.

Check out why Congress Hall’s restaurant is a favorite of

locals as well as hotel guests. They serve classic tavern

food for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with a choice of indoor

and outdoor dining.

The Boiler Room has a chic industrial vibe with exposed

brickwork, stainless steel table tops and a dance floor

that’s often bopping. Feast upon brick-oven pizza with

draft beers.

Comfy joint in the middle of the mall, featuring a raw bar,

surf-n-turf entrées, sandwiches and burgers, plus outside

tables for some great people-watching!

The Kulkowitz family’s latest culinary adventure. They’re

bringing a new vibe to the Cape May dining scene with

menu featuring local food with global flavors.

As you’d expect of an Irish pub, this is the place to get

Guinness and good pub grub. The burgers and meat pies

have been receiving rave reviews.

Good food, good beer and great times! Stop in for happy

hour to enjoy food and drink specials along with live

music. And don’t forget to ask about their draft list for

a cold one!

Enjoy your meal on The Ebbitt Room porch, overlooking

tree-lined Jackson Street, or take in the buzzy vibe of the

dining room and bar.

Located in North Cape May, serving up affordable and

authentic Mexican dishes made from only the freshest

ingredients.

Casual and family-friendly, E. M. Hemingway’s offers

fine seafood, prime beef and excellent specials. All right

across from the beachfront. Great place to watch sports,

too.

B, L, D

B, L, D

L, D

L, D

D

L, D

L, D

D

L, D

B, L, D

VARIES

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$17-$36

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$10-$16

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$12-$36

Cards:

V, MC,

AE, D

Cards:

V, MC,

AE, D

$12-$25

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$28-$38

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$9-$16

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$15-$38

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB NO YES

FULL BAR YES YES

u b

U

u b

U

FULL BAR YES YES u

BYOB NO YES

b

H

FULL BAR YES NO u b

FULL BAR NO YES

b

H

FULL BAR NO YES

u b

H U

FULL BAR YES NO u

BYOB NO YES

FULL BAR NO YES

u b

H

u b

H

KEY u Onsite Parking b Wheelchair Accessible H Takeout Available U Dog-Friendly Patio In Season




Captain Amanda Lee of the US Coast Guard

Curtis Bashaw and friends

Brenda Hutchings, Will Riccio

HAPPY HOUR 3-6pm

MONDAY

1/2 PRICE APPETIZERS, $8 COSMO,

$2 OFF DRAFT BEER

TUESDAY

1/2 PRICE PIZZA, $3 COORS LIGHT

& MILLER LITE BOTTLES, $8 MARGS

WEDNESDAY

ALL ENTREES 10% OFF

$6 PINOT NOIR, $2 OFF CRAFT BEER

THURSDAY

$2 OFF BURGERS, $10 LOADED FRIES, $8 OLD

FASHIONED, $8 POMEGRANATE MARTINI

FRIDAY

$10 AMERICANA PIZZA, $11 CHEESESTEAK, $15

DOMESTIC BUCKETS (5), $25 SELTZER BUCKETS (5)

SUNDAY

REVERSE HAPPY HOUR 11:30-3PM

$7 MIMOSA, $8 BLOODY MARY, $9 APEROL SPRITZ,

$9 TRUFFLE POTATO WEDGES,

$10 CHICKEN AND WAFFLE SLIDERS

thelocaltavernnj.com

1075 Bayshore Road, Villas



What You Need

To Know About

The Food And

The Ambience

Meals

Served

Price Of

Entrées

Bar Or

BYOB?

Should I

Book?

Food For

Kids?

Other

Details

EXIT ZERO FILLING STATION

110 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May

(609) 241-2632

exitzero.com

After 10 years of serving curries (initially as Exit Zero

Cookhouse, the restaurant is now closed for good).

The magazine (and online retail store) will continue,

in an office on the Washington Street Mall. Adieu!

FINS BAR & GRILLE

142 Decatur Street, Cape May

(609) 884-3449

finscapemay.com

Inside, enjoy the exciting maritime-themed decor

inside. Outside, you can enjoy eating out in the

middle of Decatur Street, under the canopy.

L, D

$17-$37

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO YES

b

H U

5 WEST PUB


(609) 889-7000

5westpub.com

This hotspot is a gastropub from the owners of

Tisha’s. Here you’ll enjoy the same high-quality food

and high-quality service, in a relaxed atmosphere.

L, D

$6-$20

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO YES

u b

H U

GEORGE’S PLACE


(609) 884-6088

kararestaurantgroup.com

This local legend of an eatery serves up their

signature breakfast items, mouth-watering lunches

and generous dinners all in a welcoming and relaxed

environment.

B, L, D

$8-$27

CASH ONLY

BYOB NO YES b H

GRANA BYOB

413 S. Broadway, Cape May

(609) 849-9255

granabyob.com

Chef Carl Messick has taken over what was once

Godmother’s and transformed it into a relaxed, finedining

restaurant. Exquisite dishes featuring seasonal

and sustainable ingredients.

D

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB YES NO b

HARPOONS ON THE BAY

91 Beach Drive, North Cape May

(609) 886-5529

www.harpoonsonthebay.com

A little slice of paradise on the bay, enjoy dishes

with Caribbean flair, listen to a few jam bands and

watch spectacular sunsets while sipping a cocktail or

domestic draft.

L, D

Cards:

V, MC,

D, AE

FULL BAR NO YES

u b

H U

HARRY’S OCEAN BAR AND GRILLE


(609) 884-2779

harryscapemay.com

This beachfront restaurant and bar features rooftop

dining, live music, fresh local seafood and signature

orange crushes — the fun awaits!

B, L, D

Cards:

V, MC,

D, AE

FULL BAR NO YES

u b

H U

ICCARA ITALIAN BISTRO

315 Ocean Street, #4, Cape May

(609) 884-0200

iccaracapemay.com

Just steps from the Washington Street Mall, Iccara

Italian Bistro & Seafood brings you the fresh flavors of

Italy in a charming, welcoming atmosphere.

L, D

$25-$39

Cards:

V, MC,

D, AE

BYOB YES YES

u b

H

KING EDWARD BAR

301 Howard Street, Cape May

(609) 884-8409

chalfonte.com

This legendary hangout is an intimate place where

locals and guests mingle inside the historic Chalfonte

Hotel. Enjoy light bites and classic cocktails, plus live

music.

D

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO NO

b

H

THE LOBSTER HOUSE

Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May

(609) 884-8296

thelobsterhouse.com

Take-out, fish market, restaurant, raw bar, breakfast,

dinner... The Lobster House has it all. Drinks on the

Schooner American before dinner is a must-do Cape

May experience.

L, D

$5-$48.50

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO YES

u b

H U

THE LOCAL TAVERN

1075 Bayshore Road, Villas

(609) 741-8945

thelocaltavernnj.com

Brought to you by the owners of Tisha’s and 5 West,

this newly reimagined hangout features a full bar,

comfort food, billiards, live entertainment, and a

laid-back vibe that makes you feel right at home

L, D

$12-$29

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO YES

u b

H





Grace, Nelson, and Perry Giordano

The legendary, intimate hangout where locals

& guests mingle over domestic & imported

beers, fine wines & classic cocktails. Join us!

LIVE MUSIC & LITE BITES

Two courses for $35 Wed - Sat from 5pm

THURSDAY NIGHT “The Hoot” 7-10pm

Featuring members of

the Howard Street Ramble Band

FRIDAY NIGHT Live Music 7-10pm

12/13: Toni Teshner

Blue Pig and friends

WEDNESDAY NIGHT Movie at 7pm

12/17: Home Alone

Free Entry & Free House-Made Popcorn!

Bianca, Justin, Collette, Mary, Dennis

Buffet breakfast with Santa on

12/13 at 9am

301 Howard Street, Cape May

609-884-8409 • chalfonte.com



What You Need

To Know About

The Food And

The Ambience

Meals

Served

Price Of

Entrées

Bar Or

BYOB?

Should I

Book?

Food For

Kids?

Other

Details

LUCKY BONES

1200 Route 109, Cape May

(609) 884-BONE

luckybonesgrill.com

A huge hit and locals’ favorite for a reason. Excellent

food (the thin-crust pizzas are excellent), great bar

vibe and service. Lucky Bones gets it right every time.

B, L, D

$6-$25

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR

For tables

of eight or

less

YES

u b

H

MAD BATTER


(609) 884-5970

madbatter.com

It’s the original fine dining restaurant in Cape May.

The food is always creative and the breakfasts and

brunches, hard to beat — hence the lines.

B, L, D

$26-$37

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO YES H

MARIO’S PIZZA

Washington Commons

(609) 884-0085

mariosofcapemay.com

MUDHEN BREWING COMPANY

127 W. Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood

(609) 846-7918

mudhenbrew.com

OCEAN 7

7 Ocean Street, Cape May

(609) 884-5555

innofcapemay.com/ocean-7

OCEAN VIEW

Beach and Grant Avenues, Cape May

(609) 884-3772

oceanviewrestaurant.com

OUT THERE COFFEE

315 Ocean Street, Cape May

www.outtherecoffee.com

Homemade specialties and secret sauces, from classic

pizza (using homemade dough daily) to paninis,

garlic knots and pasta dishes.

Sip on craft beers inside this rustic brewpub while

enjoying delicious and casual fare including their

BBQ smokehouse menu, juicy burgers and specialty

mac-and-cheese dishes. Great outdoor space!

Located at the Inn of Cape May, stop in to enjoy breakfast,

lunch and dinner paired with specialty cocktails.

A large and very reliable menu. Classic diner food,

oversized portions, and very reasonably priced. A

locals’ favorite for a reason.

Start every morning with their home-roasted coffee,

super-food lattes, gluten free baked goods and

varieties of toasts and frozen drinks.

L, D

L, D

B, L, D

B, L

Pastries,

toast and

snacks

$6-$20

Cards:

V, MC,

AE, D

$14-$35

Cards:

V, MC,

AE, D

Cards:

V, MC,

AE, D

$9-$30

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$5-$10

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB NO YES

FULL BAR NO YES

FULL BAR YES NO

BYOB NO YES

N/A NO YES

u b

H U

u b

H U

b

U

u b

H

b

H U

OYSTER BAY

615 Lafayette Street, Cape May

(609) 884-2111

oysterbayrestaurant.com

PETER SHIELDS INN


(609) 884-9090

petershieldsinn.com

PIER HOUSE


(609) 898-2244

capemaylamer.com

POPPI’S

4709 New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood

(609) 600-3964

poppisbrickoven.com

Eat in the lovely, airy dining room or in the adjoining

bar area with a fun vibe. There’s also a daily bar menu,

happy hour, great martinis and classic, generous

dishes.

The Georgian Revival mansion is magnificent and the

modern American menu matches it all the way. And

now the restaurant is able to serve wine, cocktails

and beers!

This cozy, elegant restaurant in La Mer Beachfront

Resort offers a welcoming ambiance serving

American fare with innovative twists and inspired

recipes, just steps from the beach.

Enjoy their old-world recipes in a relaxed atmosphere

with rustic charm. They select the finest local ingredients

for each dish and welcome your family to be a

part of their family.

D

D

B, L, D

L, D

$12-$29

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

$22-$39

Cards:

V, MC, D

$12-$60

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR YES YES

u b

H

FULL BAR YES NO H

FULL BAR YES YES

BYOB NO YES

u b

H

u b

H



COASTAL CULINARY BLISS

Discover a curated selection of appetizers, entrées, and desserts inspired by

American, Italian, and French cuisine—crafted by our new Executive Chef,

Miguel Ferrer. With over a decade of experience at the Washington Inn & Wine Bar,

Chef Ferrer brings his culinary expertise and passion to every dish on the menu.

breakfast Saturday & Sunday 8-11:30am

lunch Friday & Saturday 12-4pm

dinner Friday & Saturday from 5-8:30pm

seasalt indoor bar Friday & Saturday 12pm-Close

LOCATED IN THE OCEAN CLUB HOTEL

SEASALTCAPEMAY.COM

1035 BEACH AVENUE, CAPE MAY

609-884-7000



What You Need

To Know About

The Food And

The Ambience

Meals

Served

Price Of

Entrées

Bar Or

BYOB?

Should I

Book?

Food For

Kids?

Other

Details

QUINCY’S LOBSTER ROLLS


(609) 600-3571

quincysoriginal.com

Bringing a little taste of New England to Cape May.

Indulge in classic lobster rolls, lobster salads, crab

rolls and other quick-bite favorites at either of their

locations including Beach Avenue.

L, D

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB NO YES

b

H U

SAPORE ITALIANO

416 South Broadway, West Cape May

(609) 600-1422

saporeitalianorestaurant.com

Located in a magnificent Victorian mansion, with

plenty of outdoor dining, and the food does it justice.

Excellent Italian food and a lovely family-style

ambience.

D

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB YES YES

u b

H

TACO CABALLITO TEQUILERIA


(609) 884-4800

tacocaballitotequileria.com

Enjoy this two-story, vibrant beachfront restaurant

that offers authentic Mexican dishes and handcrafted

margaritas made with artisanal tequilas.

L, D

$10-$18

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO YES

b

H U

TISHA’S


(609) 884-9119

tishasfinedining.com

This local favorite serves delicious food for lunch

and dinner. And they have a pet-firendly patio too.

Check out their sister restaurants, 5 West Pub and

The Local Tavern, too.

D

$18-$35

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB YES YES b U

TOMMY’S FOLLY CAFE


(609) 884-6566

caperesorts.com

Filled with everything you need to keep you going

all day long. Enjoy fresh-brewed La Colombe coffee,

specialty drinks and an assortment of baked goods

and breakfast paninis.

B, D

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB NO YES

b

H

THE UGLY MUG


(609) 884-3459

uglymug.bar

A Cape May legend. Inside, you’ll enjoy a classic

pub atmosphere. Outside, it’s a great spot for

people watching. Check their ad for upcoming live

entertainment.

L, D

$12-$25

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR NO YES b H

UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKE HOUSE

Beach Avenue and Perry, Cape May

(609) 884-7199

Reliably good food — there is a reason why people

wait in line. You can sit outside with ocean and

beach views — and dine with your dog if the

weather is nice.

B, L

$4-$9

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB NO YES

u b

H U

VIGGIANO’S ON SUNSET

109 Sunset Blvd, West Cape May

(609) 435-5026

viggianosbyob.com

A family-friendly Italian restaurant, from the same

owners as the popular Conshocken restaurant.

Expect classic Italian food done right and a welcome

as hearty as the pasta dishes.

D

$15-$45

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB YES YES

u b

H

VINCENZO’S LITTLE ITALY


(609) 889-6610

vincenzoslittleitaly.com

If you want to bring the family for a fine and fun

Italian meal, look no further. The kids will love it.

Excellent pasta dishes, and they’ve recently expanded

their pizzeria.

L, D

$10-$31

Cards:

V, MC,

AE, D

BYOB YES YES

u b

H

WASHINGTON INN


(609) 884-5697

washingtoninn.com

Superb gourmet food, and a cool-but-cozy bar. Check

out an amazing wine list of over 10,000 bottles;

they’ve got the largest wine cellar in South Jersey.

D

$18-$34

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

FULL BAR YES YES

u b

H

WESTSIDE MARKET

517 Broadway, Cape May

(609) 884-3061

westsidemarketwestcapemay.com

Breakfast, lunch, deli counter, butcher, groceries,

baked goods... Westside has it all! Pick up a few

sandwiches to bring to the beach or grab some steaks

to grill up for dinner.

B, L

$7-$22

Cards:

V, MC, AE, D

BYOB NO YES

u

H





Big Clan

Campground Crew and Cody

Solecki, Kleban, Carpenter family

Helen, Rose, Anne, Charlotte, Levon

Bromiley, Caine, Maryanne, Ryan, Corinna


Josephine, Everett, Amelia, Amelia

Joe

Canal’s

OF CAPE MAY & RIO GRANDE

DISCOUNT Liquor Outlet

Visit joe-canals.com - click on Cape May location

to place orders for curbside pickup.

918 RTE 9, CAPE MAY @ END OF PARKWAY • 609-884-7676

& RIO GRANDE @ 1613 RTE 47 SOUTH • 609-886-9786



James, Brian, Pat

John, Sheri, Stephanie, Paul

Jason, Annemarie, Quinn, Gemma

Larisa, Sina, Maria




Honky Donkey crew

Matthew Guthrie




Dan Spatol, Nick and Ashlee Ceccoli

Jalen, Alison

Hotaling family



Those creative folks at the Flying Fish Studio


The Answer Lady invites inquiries

from gentle readers on all manner of

relationship quandaries, matters of

the heart and ethics. If you’d like to

send a query, write to info@exitzero.

us. Or, simply sit back, enjoy a cup of coffee

and contemplate the wisdom herein.

Dear Answer Lady

My sister and I want to give my parents

a dog for Christmas. The problem is our dad

very much wants a dog and our mother not

so much. Dad had a mild heart attack a couple

of months back and is a little depressed.

My sister and I feel very strongly that a

dog is what he needs. It would give him the

impetus he needs to get up in the morning

and he would love the lucky pooch with

all his heart. We think, if we approach this

properly, we can persuade our mother to

accept this new addition to the family. Our

questions for you are — what would be the

best approach to get her on board and where

do you suggest we go to get our Christmas

pooch? – Pro Pooch

The Answer Lady

Wise answers to life’s perplexing questions

Dear Pro

The Answer Lady sees a champagne

brunch at the Mad Batter is in your future.

It might help if you have photos of some prospective

candidates. For that, take a copy

of Exit Zero with you. You definitely want to

bring her along when you “interview” the

lucky four-legged friend. Your arguments

are very persuasive. You certainly do not

want a puppy. That would be too much work,

but there are plenty of pooches looking

for a good home. Where to go? That’s easy.

The Cape May County Animal Shelter and

Adoption Center. Good luck.

Dear Answer Lady

I have been dating a woman for a month.

She thinks it’s time I meet her daughter, who

is eight. I would like this to be a special occasion.

Her father is very much in the picture,

and I am sensitive about not wanting to get

in the way of their relationship. But where

does that put me? I should add that I am

pretty sure I’m going to ask her mother to

marry me, which is why I want to get this

right. Suggestions? – Trepidatious

Dear Trepidatious

You want the relationship to grow on her

time. Don’t overdo it and relax. Be yourself.

That’s very important. Kids have a keen BS

radar. As to what to do — breakfast with

Santa at the Chalfonte, the Inn of Cape May

or Congress Hall is a great start. Certainly,

you want to visit Winter Wonderland, also

at Congress Hall. Most importantly, enjoy!



Lora, Jim

Jim, Chris

George, Carol Henry, Carol Andrew Raniszewski

Falling for a book

Open Thu-Tue 10:30-5:00 closed wed

Cape May’s Full-Service Jeweler

Offering Custom Designs,

Watch Batteries & Repairs

510 CARPENTERS LANE l 609-854-4489

Shop online at trinketscapemay.com

Cape Atlantic

Book Company

OPEN @ 10am

City Centre Mall 2nd floor

Washington Street Mall, Cape May

609-846-7688 • capeatlanticbookco.com




Gabi, Claire, Esmeralda

Frank, Liz, Frankie, BooBoo

Gia, Bill, Sue, Connor, Brandon

Mike, Mike, Debbie, Judie, Peg, Alyssa

McCloskey and Vollraths families


Steve, Barb, Dave


Katie, Marina Brandy, Jason Eva, Dillon, Stella

Maryann and Justin LoMonaco Joe, Beth Jeff, Kristi


11/29: Merry Christmas Party

At Behr Brewing Company

Maureen, Cat, Behr

Dave, Emily

Santa, Liz


The Burkes, Cat and Behr

12/6: Breakfast With Santa At The Inn Of Cape May

Megan and Marielle Murphy, Terry Morris

Classic American Tales

CHRISTMAS IN THE BARN!

Friday, December 12 from 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Rea’s Farm, Rea’s 400 Farm, Stevens 400 Stevens Street, West Street, Cape West May, Cape NJ May, Admission NJ Free!

Enjoy Admission dinner Free! in the Join heated us in barn; the heated Bottles barn available for dinner for purchase (BYOB), from shop Cape at vendors’ May Winery booths

AND Enjoy CAT’S Artistic Director Gayle Stahlhuth presenting

“A Great Tree” at 6:00pm and “The Gift of the Magi”at 7:30 pm

Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, hot and cold drinks, and wine and Michèle LaRue presenting

“The Christmas Sing in Our Village” and “Hoodoo McFiggins Christmas”

Location: 121 Fourth Avenue, West Cape May

All for only $20! Purchase tickets here: https://www.ClassicAmericanTales.org/schedule.html

For more information: 917-623-4965 - ClassicAmericanTales@aol.com - ClassicAmericanTales.org

Funding is possible in part by NJSCA/Dept. of State, the NEA, & Cape

May County Board of County Commussioners through the Cape May

County Division of Cuture & Heritage. Season Sponsor OceanFirst Bank.

CHRISTMAS CHEER!

Sunday, December 14 from 4:00pm - 6:00pm


EXIT ZERO



Delivered To Your Inbox!

The Behrs

upcoming events

photo of the week

online store updates

property of the week

Beef, Marlee, Bulldozer, Rachel, Bob, Clint

+ MORE!

Scan for

weekly updates

from cape may

Mark, Jackie and friends


H oliday

Trolley Rides

Cape May MAC launched its first

Christmas tour in 1974 and ever

since this tour has been a beloved

annual tradition and a highlight

of the holiday season in America’s

only National Historic Landmark

City. This self-guided walking tour

celebrates the best of Cape May at

Christmas, as you travel Cape May’s

gaslit streets, hear musicians and

carolers, and visit homes, inns, B&Bs,

churches and hotels where you’ll

step inside to see both Victorian and

more modern interiors beautifully

decorated for the holidays. Don’t

miss Cape May’s longest running

and most popular Christmas tour.

Saturdays, Dec. 13 & 20

5:30-8:30 PM

Tickets are limited!

Order yours online now at

ChristmasCapeMay.com

or scan the code below

Celebrate the magic of the season with

Cape May MAC’s Holiday Trolley Rides!

Join us for an unforgettable holiday

experience as we journey through

Cape May’s scenic streets and immerse

ourselves in the charm of this

historic town.

Choose from our festive tours:

• Holiday Lights Trolley Rides

• Santa’s Trolley Rides

• Spirited Cape May Christmas

Trolley Ride

• All That Glitters: Victorians Ring in

the New Year Trolley Tour

Bring family and friends, and make lasting

holiday memories in Cape May! Reserve

your seats now for a season to remember.

Tickets are limited!

Order yours online now at

ChristmasCapeMay.com

or scan the code below

CapeMayMAC.org

An Old-Fashioned Christmas

FREE Holiday Display. Located in the Carroll Gallery at The Emlen Physick Estate

Open Daily Nov 21-Jan 4*; check online for times

*Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day


Want to be seen by

thousands of locals &

visitors each week?



Advertise in Exit Zero!

609-241-2632

info@exitzero.com

The Vanamans, Eckles & Hinds family

Animal Outreach

of Cape May County

Our mission is to provide shelter, care and love

for the unwanted, abused, and abandoned

animals of Cape May County. We are a

no kill organization. Our adoption program

has helped to greatly reduce the numbers of

homeless animals in our county.

Ethan, Ash, Lin

Your generous donation will help provide love, shelter,

food, and medical services to helpless animals. All

contributions are tax-deductible, as allowed by law.

aocmc.org/getinvolved

600 Park Blvd, Unit 3, West Cape May

609-898-1738 | info@aocmc.org

Ashley, Cat, Steven


11/29: Christmas At The Hangar At Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum

Margie, Jackie

Gwen, Wesley, Cameron, Angel, Chaz Jim, Jackie Trish, Ron (nice cap!)


DENNIS J. SPILKER

Manager/Funeral Director NJ Lic. No. 4038

KEVIN J. BEARE

Funeral Director NJ Lic. No. 3806

Cherishing Life’s Moments

609-884-3793

spilkerfuneralhome.com

Continuing a 90-Year Tradition of Serving

the Cape May and Lower Township Area

General, Cosmetic & Restorative

Dentistry for the Whole Family

• Crowns, Fillings etc

• Oral Surgery, Root Canals, Implants

• Invisalign

• Teeth Whitening — Kor, Opalescence

• Same-Day Emergencies

• Botox and Dermal Fillers

Call or message us online to schedule

your appointment with Dr Evan!

Dr Evan Cauterucci

411 Park Boulevard, Cape May

609-884-5335 • capemaydental.com provider



Griffin, Saylor, Tricia, Dan Angel, Zoe, Eddie Loudini, Lydia

The Magic

Returns.

Get your elves ready...

Winter Wonderland returns

to Congress Hall.

LEARN MORE


November 28 — December 31, 2025

Breakfast with Santa, Vendor Village, Carousel Rides & More

It’s hard to believe that another glorious

autumn migration is drawing to a close.

The songbird migration that began back

in August with those first Yellow Warblers

filtering south has run its course. Only the

hordes of Yellow-rumped Warblers remain

and many of these hardy birds will remain

with us all winter. In winter, the hardy Yellow-rumped

is able to augment its diet with

seeds, including poison ivy and bayberry.

These boreal forest breeders are found

from Newfoundland to Alaska and winter

across the southern US, north even to coastal

New England. Much of the bird’s hardiness

can be traced to versatility. Yellow-rumps

can do it all — glean insect larvae from tree

trunks, forage amid the leaf litter on the forest

floor, even snap insects out of thin air.

Pioneering ornithologist Alexander Wilson,

unaware that what he had stumbled upon in

the New World was a whole new bird family,

initially called them “flycatchers”.

Yellow-rumps are also adept at scooping

up insects floating on the surface of ponds.

Bird Droppings

Dispatches from the nation’s birdwatching capital… by Seymore Thanu

If you feed birds and offer suet, don’t be surprised

to see a Yellow-rump clinging to the

wire cage. The warbler family is, as the name

suggests, celebrated for their songs which, of

course, are not being uttered right now.

In winter, most adult warblers are not as

brightly attired as breeding birds. But in winter,

Yellow-rumps still flash their tell-tale yellow

rumps. Overall brownish, flushed birds

show three points of light as they fly directly

away — one bright rump and white corners

on the tail. Flushed birds will also usually

utter their distinctive flat chep note. Even in

winter, the birds gather in small flocks and in

woodlands also join mixed species flocks, led

by chickadees.

The vegetated dunes of the South Cape

May Meadows are a particularly good location

to find Yellow-rumps. Come April, adults

will be graying up and showing touches of

yellow on the flanks and crown. For those

whose field guides assigns the bird to the

genus “Dendroica”, a decade ago this was correct.

But the genus Dendroica was tabled by

the A.O.S in favor of “Septophaga,” Greek for

“moth-eater.” Why? I don’t know. I don’t sit

on the Ornithological Society’s Classification

Committee. But Dendroica, which is Greek

for “tree dwelling,” seems to me just as apt.

If a rose is a rose is a rose, a warbler by any

other name sings just as beautifully. But until

April, when the birds are moved to sing, a chep

is all you’ll get.



Maya, Sasha Desmond Whalen, Raegan Fernandez Melban, Ray

Ellie, Ed Dan and Pam Tower Pat, Joe




If you love Cape May, you already have

a complex relationship with the winter

beach. It’s beautiful, except when it’s

brutal. It’s temperate, unless the wind

picks up. The skies are gray, except when

they are a brilliant blue. Small wonder that

some of my favorite beach photographs are

winter shots.

Taking photos on the winter beach

requires a bit of preparation. Of course, if

you’re an experienced photographer, you

don’t need advice from someone with a sixyear

old iPhone. When I asked a pro for tips

on winter beach portraits, she basically told

me to find an indoor site, because winter

can be uncomfortable for the models, the

photographer and the lenses. But, winter

does offer some advantages.

The sun rises later and sets earlier, so

you may be better able to corral the crew

for the “golden hour.” Even if you can’t,

the softer light of the winter sun should

be pretty all day, and a cloudy day creates

interesting shadows.

The Activity Column

Catherine Dugan’s guide to getting out there and enjoying this island

With fewer people around, you’ll have

large sections of the beach to yourself, so

you can take your time. Sit still to capture

a shore bird, or take your time posing your

models to get the fence, the lighthouse and

eye contact.

If you’re photographing kids, expect

chaos. Don’t put pressure on the models.

Instead, tell the well-fed and rested little

darlings that you’re taking a few pictures

before the fun begins, and wrap them in lots

of cozy gear. Unfamiliar gear works best

— you should get some adorable seasonal

shots as they are unwinding the scarves

and pulling off the mittens and earmuffs. If

you’re lucky, a small one will turn her little

chin up to a big one for help. Keep shooting

as you let them run around, flying a kite or

tossing a frisbee. Then, put the camera/

phone away because someone is about to get

wet. Oh, they’re just going to put their toes

in and their shoes are safely up on the promenade?

Ha! I don’t know how it happens, but

it does, and there will likely be tears, just as

the sun dips and the wind picks up. Bring a

full change of clothes and a blanket. Later,

marvel at how many cute shots you got.

Of course, professional photographers

can provide the best results, and Cape May

has several. M.P. Myers (mpmyersphotography.com)

specializes in portraits of children,

including your fur babies. Exit Zero’s

own Aleksey Moryakov (alekseyphotography.com)

does weddings, food and real

estate, in addition to portraits.

START WITH A LOWER RATE

AND A LENDER WHO’S RIGHT HERE AT HOME

With today’s lower adjustable-rate mortgages,

you can buy more for less.

Our ARMs start with a lower initial rate,

helping you save on monthly payments

while planning for the future.

And because we’re your local community bank,

decisions are made right here by neighbors

who know you and your goals.

Talk to a Sturdy Savings Bank Mortgage Specialist today!

R

R

NMLS #410428

609-463-5210


11/29: Christmas At The Hangar At

Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum

The Millers

Brad, Karen, Kim, Melissa


Vayda, Helen, Jerry, Trey



Harley, Dakota, Brittany

John, Kate and baby Jamie

Robert Panaccio, VMD

Robert Moffatt, VMD

Nancy Reilly, VMD

Patricia J. Link, DVM

Lisa Hammett, DVM

Nour Hussaein, DVM

694 Petticoat Creek Lane, Cape May

609-884-1729 • capemayvet.com

The Minton family

hours by appointment


Just Listed!

The Black Duck Residences

101 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May



McNulty and Cattell gang

Black Duck Landing

Unit 2 (2nd Flr)

3 Bedrooms

3.1 Bathrooms

Approx 2,134 Ft²

Asking: $1,799,000

Black Duck Nest

Unit 3 (Penthouse)

3 Bedrooms

3.1 Bathrooms

Approx 2,134 Ft²

Asking: $1,999,000

These newly reimagined condominiums combine

thoughtful craftsmanship with an unbeatable

address above one of the town’s most charming and

walkable corridors only 4 blocks from the beach.

SCAN QR CODES TO SEE MORE!

Unit 2 Full Listing Info Unit 3 Full Listing Info

Sofija, Arya, Harley, Mia

Listing Agent

Carol Menz

Broker of Record

Cell: (609) 374-0325

Office: (609)884-5005

www.CoastlineRealty.com

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May


Erin, Chrissy and gang



Cape Harbor Shell

GASOLINE

DIESEL

PROPANE

TOWING

TIRE CHANGES

Bryan, Edward and Suzanne Wuerker

OIL CHANGES

MOST CARS REPAIRED SAME DAY!

Located At Exit 0 on the Garden State Parkway

609-898-0855 capeharborshell.com

610 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May

Kasey, Bonnie, Elizabeth

Nestled among preserved Green Acres and State Park

Lands, this rare 4-bedroom retreat offers easy access to

Cape May’s beaches and Sunset Beach. $1,195,000

Maryam, Quinn, Brynley

Gail Wilsey-Morrison, Broker Associate

gailwilsey@gmail.com

609-602-0405 | 609-884-1007

501 Lafayette Street, Cape May


11/27: Thanksgiving Dinner At Pier House At La Mer Beachfront Resort

Carrie, Harper, Chris Harper, Carrie Doug, Ashley, Walker, Willow

BOB HARTMAN JR

Realtor Sales Associate

Cell 609-780-4626

BobHartmanJr@CoastlineRealty.com

Contact me for all your sales

and rental needs!

23 BEECHWOOD AVENUE, VILLAS

941 Columbia Avenue,

Cape May, NJ

D 609-846-5376

O 609-884-5005

Holli Cappelli ABR, SRS


hollicappelli@coastlinerealty.com

hollicappelli.com

Huge thanks to my amazing clients, fellow realtors, coworkers,

and this awesome community for an incredible year. I

absolutely love what I do–and doing it here in this great town.

Thank you for the support, trust, and good vibes all year long.

Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the

picturesque Bayside Village community with fenced back

yard and 30 x 24 detached garage. $559,000.

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May 609-884-5005

Thinking about renting, buying, or selling a home? Give me a

jingle this holiday season–I’m ready to help make your next

move merry and bright. Cheers, and wishing you a joyful

holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!


Enrich Your Life... Adopt An Animal

Three cat-tastic felines from the Cape May County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center... call 609-465-8923

ICHABOD is two months old and under

three pounds. He was found alone at a trailer

park and brought to the shelter for some

much needed TLC. His eye was ruptured

when he arrived and he is scheduled to have

it surgically fixed at the end of December. It

would be ideal for him to be adopted before

surgery so he can recover in his new home.

SQUID spent many years living at a campground,

being chased away. He was found

hungry and injured. It is believed he was once

a domestic cat that had to become “feral” for

survival. Squid has FIV and suffers a viral

infection called Stomatitis. It is treatable an

Squid is doing great. All he needs now is to

find a quiet, kind, loving home.

SKITTLES is a friendly and affectionate cat

who loves having a companion nearby. She

enjoys gentle attention and settles in quickly

with people she trusts. This adorable girl is

house-trained and easy to care for. With her

vaccinations up to date and already spayed,

Skittles is ready for her forever home. Contact

the shelter today to meet her!


DESIREE LAPOINTE

Realtor Sales Associate, SRS

609-602-2254

Desiree@CoastlineRealty.com

11/27: Thanksgiving Dinner At Pier

House At La Mer Beachfront Resort

Now that the holiday season is

approaching what better time to

buy, sell or just plan a fun weekend

getaway?Contact me today!

1340 D Wisconsin Ave, CM

1361 A Ohio Ave, Cape May

2-Beds, 1.5-Baths, Sleeps 5

Beachy Village Green Quad

with outdoor shower for only

$1,300-$1,800 weekly

2-Beds, 1.5-Baths, Sleeps 6

Pet-friendly Village Green Quad

in beautiful Cape May!

$1,600-$2,125 weekly

Surprise Thanksgiving visit for Ann Curcio

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May 609-884-5005 ext 112

Pam, Bonnie, Pete, Bonnie


Jim, Mary Lou, Jillian, Jay

Enrich Your Life... Adopt An Animal

Three dog-tastic pooches from the Cape May County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center... call 609-465-8923

DUKE was surrendered when his previous

owners realized they did not have the experience

to manage his training needs. Potential

adopters should expect to visit him several

times before he feels fully comfortable. Once

Duke trusts you, he is incredibly affectionate.

He would do best in an adult home with

German Shepherd experience.

HONEY B is a shy girl who came to the shelter

when her owner could no longer care

for her. Now she spends her days watching

people pass by her kennel. Honey B wags

her tail softly when it’s time to go outside

and explores the yard with curiosity.

She would do best in a calm home with older

children and a peaceful routine.

ARROW is searching for a new home after

being left with a family member by his previous

owner. He lived happily with a woman

and her six-year-old grandson, who adored

him but could not keep him long term. Arrow

has lots of energy, is easy to harness, and

walks nicely on a leash. He will thrive with

someone who can keep him busy.

Kathleen Satt

Broker Salesperson

Direct: 609.972.4014

Office: 609.884.1300

KSatt@deSatnickRealEstate.com

UNNDERR

106 RACE TRACK DR.,

TOWNBANK

4 BD/2 BA 2016 custom-built

home with quality construction

and coastal charm.

$899,000

246 NEW JERSEY AVE.,

VILLAS

3 BD/2 BA well-maintained

home close to the Delaware Bay,

built in 2023.

$729,900

www.deSatnickRealEstate.com

1001 Lafayette St., Cape May NJ 08204 Todd deSatnick / Broker of Record

CCONNTTRRACCTT

FOR SALE


Jersey Cape

Realty

SALES & RENTALS



BUYING & SELLING

WITH INTEGRITY

& TRUST

Heijung Park-Colameco

Broker Salesperson

609-602-8641 (c)

Market Expert

Experienced Negotiator

Results Driven

Contact “Heijung”

for your next

Real Estate Move!

Jersey Cape Realty, Inc.

Dolores Lanzalotti, Broker / Owner


609-884-5800 www.JerseyCapeRealty.com

Diana, Staino, Pam, Bonnie, Madison, Alex, Rosie, Ana

Santoro family


Joan, Bonnie, Francesca, Michelle, Pam

PROPERTY PAGES

Welcome to 44 Harbor Cove, a beautifully

designed, custom three-story upside-down home

crafted to highlight sweeping harbor views and

provides effortless access to both the marina and

the nearby harbor beach. The residence offers

four bedrooms, two flexible bonus rooms plus an

office, three full bathrooms, a half bath, and generous

indoor and outdoor living areas.

Cape May Harbor Village and Yacht Club is

a distinctive waterfront community featuring a

private 2-acre park, tennis/pickleball court, and

a marina where each homeowner owns a 35’ boat

slip for personal use or rental. The association

maintains an expansive common courtyard, boathouse

with bathroom facilities, and marina, as

well as individual lawn care. Asking $2,985,000.

44 HARBOR COVE, CAPE MAY

Contact Carol Menz, Broker of Record at Coastline Realty at 609-374-0325.


Cape May’s #1 Client Proven Choice. Hear From 1,000+ Satisfied Clients Online

Active Listings

500 Kennedy Drive

Unit 702, North Wildwood

Recently

Sold by

Coastline

Regency

Tower

Penthouse

Unit

$638,000

Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of

waves and breathtaking ocean vistas from

your very own slice of paradise.

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame

mesmerizing views of the ocean, blurring

the lines between indoor comfort and

outdoor beauty. Beyond your door, the

Regency Tower offers resort-style

amenities. Seller is offering a $5,000 seller’s

concession with an acceptable offer.

73 Ridgewood Ave

Villas

Seller’s Agent Buyer’s Agent

$790,000

109 Iowa Avenue

Villas

$299,999

2 Bedrooms - 1 Bathroom

50’ x 100’ Lot

0 Route 9 South

Edgewood

$1,950,000

Development Opportunity

20 Acres Vacant Land

401 Beach Drive

North Cape May


602 N Dorset Avenue

Ventnor

$829,999

4 Bedrooms - 2.1 Bathrooms

Approx. 2,877 Square Feet

160 Kentucky Avenue

Villas

$355,000

3 Bedrooms - 1 Bathroom

90’ x 100’ Lot

755 Route 9, F-6

North Cape May


$1,595,000 $230,000

(609) 884-5005 • CoastlineRealty.com

Our experience is your biggest asset for Cape May County real estate


Your Way to Cape May

Starts with Coastline Realty

Vacation Rentals

415 Second Avenue

West Cape May

4 Bedrooms

2 Bathrooms

Sleeps up to 10

Weekly Rent:

$1,500 - $3,100

This quiet Cape Cod style home in W. Cape

May is ready for your next getaway to the area.

Relax on the shaded screened in porch after a

day at the beach. Nearby is South Cape

Meadows Preserve, Willow Creek Winery,

Rae’s Farm Market, and Beach Plum Farm.

1253 Washington Street

Cape May

804 Delaware Avenue

Villas

Why Pay More?

Save by booking With US

Enjoy seamless bookings with our office. No sales

tax, no occupancy tax, and no hidden fees. We have

one low processing fee under $100 and provide

24/7 Cape May hospitality you can always rely on.

Same Rental. Same Dates. Big Savings!

OUR OFFICE

$4,600 Rent

$75 Processing Fee

$350 Cleaning Fee

$1,000 Refundable

Security Deposit

Total Paid: $6,025

Total Cost: $5,025

After Deposit Return

(21% Less!)

THOSE OTHER PLACES

$4,600 Rent

$350 Cleaning Fee

$695 Guest Service Fee

$148.50 Local Occupancy Tax

$247.50 State Occupancy Tax

$327.90 State Sales Tax

Total Paid: $6,368.90

($1,418.90 in Taxes

& Guest Fees!)

92 Pinetree Drive

Villas

6 Beds - 5 Baths - Sleeps 18

Weekly Rent: $2,800 - $12,000


Weekly Rent: $1,575 - $1,890


Weekly Rent: $1,300 - $2,200

Own a Vacation Rental? Get More Guests, With Less Stress. Unlock Rental Success!

• 24/7 AirBnB & VRBO Services

• Property specific print & online ads

Client

Testimonial

• ZERO upfront fees to rent

• Calendar sync with other offices

• Dedicated rental agent for your property

• Guests save on Occupancy Taxes

“I had the pleasure of working with Holly to book our stay in Cape May. The house we

stayed in was gorgeous. Holly was prompt in her responses and answered all of my

questions from before we booked to the time of our stay. Would definitely recommend

working with Coastline Realty.” - Alicia L.

Open 7 Days. Walk-ins Welcome

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May • Carol Menz - Broker of Record/Owner


11/27: Thanksgiving Dinner At Pier House At La Mer Beachfront Resort

Pete, Bonnie

Tom, Christine Vince, Dena Joan, Sean


Here’s something I never thought much

about when it comes to Oscar: sibling

rivalry! Maybe it’s two brothers or a

brother and sister, but the family ties

are definitely worth exploring.

When you think of siblings, the first pair

might be Joel and Ethan Coen. The brothers

might not count, you say, because they

pretty much work together. Well, maybe less

so these days. But they share 14 Oscar nominations

and four wins together. Impressive!

For a gift card, be the first person to email

flixyoumissed@gmail.com with the names of

one of the two movies for which the brothers

earned an Oscar.

Here are some siblings who have either

been nominated or won. Ben Affleck won

twice for Argo (2012) and Good Will Hunting

(1997), and younger brother Casey won for

Manchester by the Sea (2016). Shirley MacLaine

won for 1983’s Terms of Endearment (oof,

#whattatearjerker) and baby brother Warren

Beatty (which, yeah, was fun to say) won for

directing 1981’s Reds. They have both been

The Movie Column

By arts columnist Tom Sims

nominated for Oscars through six movies

each (Beatty has more actual nominations

because of multiple noms from one movie…

but who’s counting…?).

Stellan Skarsgård is being forecasted by

Variety magazine as the likely winner of Supporting

Actor this year for his work in the Norwegian

movie Sentimental Value (which is also

a contender for best international feature).

Skarsgård has no siblings, but he produced

eight (count ’em eight!) siblings who are all

in the movies — most notably Pennywise

star Bill Skarsgård from 2017’s It (but don’t

discount his brother Alexander, who won an

Emmy for his work in Big Little Lies the same

year).

Now an interesting pair of brothers.

One never received a major award, the other

has won . Macaulay Culkin is the child actor

sensation from the Home Alone movies. He

received a Golden Globe nom for the 1990

original. But it’s his brother, Kieran, who won

an Oscar playing opposite Jesse Eisenberg in

last year’s A Real Pain.

Eisenberg and Culkin play polar opposite

cousins on a journey to visit family history in

Poland. The movie was outstanding, not without

its flaws but definitely worth the watch.

Kieran has Golden Globe and Emmy for his

work on the TV series Succession, but suffice

it if say Macaulay is crying all the way to the

bank with triple the net worth of his brother.

So the siblings are real in Hollywood. Do

you have any favorites I didn’t mention here?


BARBARA McPHERSON


Serving Clients

for 25 Years:

Buying, Selling

& Renting

2017, 2018,2019,2020 & 2021

609-780-7652

Barbara@CoastlineRealty.com

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY - REAL ESTATE ONLY



‘On the Way to Cape May’ Schellenger’s Landing

1228 Rt. 109 across from SJ Marina...Prime Location!

Over 6000+ sq ft. building with parking and driveway

Behind building stretches from 1 st to 2 nd Ave

Chris, Harper, Carrie, Grandma, Grandpa

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May 609-884-5005 ext 107

KIMBERLY GIPPLE


Seller

Representative

Specialist

Resorts & Second

Home Specialist

Accredited Buyers

Representative

609-972-9302

Kim@CoastlineRealty.com

2015-18, 23 NJ Realtors® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® Bronze

2019 & 21-22 NJ Realtors® Circle of Excellence Sales Award®Silver

JUST LISTED! 1614 Star Avenue, Villas

Susan, Michael, Francesca

This 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom rancher is set on a large lot

with plenty of room for expansion! Ideal beach getaway,

cozy starter home or rental investment. $395,000.

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May 609-884-5005


Logan, Danny, Kylie, Danny Jr

11/27: Thanksgiving At Cape May

VFW For US Coast Guard Recruits

Ladies of the VFW Auxiliary and Ron

William Leffler, Edgardo Escamilla, Isaiah Niles, Jackson Wills

Courtney@CoastlineRealty.com

Well-fed recruits

New Jersey State Licensed professional

representing buyers and sellers!


Visit JerseyCapeRealty.com

Your source for Shore Real Estate

Jersey Cape Realty ~ Your Cape May Connection

For Everything Real Estate

SALES • VACATION RENTALS • COMMERCIAL

INVESTMENT PROPERTY • NEW CONSTRUCTION

Jersey Cape Realty is your trusted connection

for all things real estate in Cape May. With a

team of seasoned and experienced agents, we

provide clients with invaluable local knowledge

and expert market insights to gain a distinct

advantage whether buying, or selling, ensuring

your real estate goals are met with success.

Put us to work for you!


Dolores Lanzalotti, Broker/Owner

739 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ 08204 Info@JerseyCapeRealty.com

www.JerseyCapeRealty.com 609-884-5800

Your SHORE Experts

902 Ocean Dr, #106, Lower Twp

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths - $1,300,000

312 S. Lake Dr, Cape May Point

4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths - $2,395,000

118 Shadeland Ave, Villas

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths - $599,000

Canyon Club Resort Marina

Waterfront unit boasting views of

Cape May Harbor. Amenities include

pools, tennis and pickleball courts.

742 Seashore Rd, Cold Spring

Residential/Commerical - $999,000

Flexible Use Building

Attractive two-story property approved

for residential/commercial use. Highly

visible location with ample parking.

101 Harvard Ave, Cape May Point

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths - $3,195,000

Award Winning Design

State-of-the-art home with open

floor plan. LEED Certified and energy

efficient. Impressive income.

Jersey Cape Realty

Your Cape May

Connection

262 Indian Trail Rd, CM Court House

Vacant Lot - $149,000

Stellar Renovation

Thoughtfully updated rancher

walkable to the bay. Enjoy a new

kitchen, bathrooms & ample storage.

1415 Harbor Ln, Unit 302, Cape May

2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths - $1,349,000

Unrivaled Sophistication

Harbor Point Condominium at Devils

Reach. Top floor, private roof deck,

boat slip, access to bay, harbor views.

317 Stites Ave, Cape May Point

5 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths - $2,489,000

Coastal Opulance

Oceanfront living at its finest! New

construction with unparalleled water

views, custom carpentry, private decks.

Infinite Opportunities

Build your dream home on this vast

1 acre lot. Short distance to plenty of

attractions and pristine beaches.

Classic Colonial

New construction two blocks to the

beach, with top-of-the-line appliances,

two primary suites, carport, and shed.

Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

Closed Sundays in December

With our full-time professional Realtors & a fully dedicated rental team

609-884-5800


11/27: Thanksgiving At Cape May VFW For US Coast Guard Recruits

Deanna, Diane

Pat, Mary Alissa, Michael Michelle




NEW SPECIALS

FRIDAY - MONDAY 954 OCEAN DRIVE CAPE MAY, NJ 08204


(609) 884-5005 • CoastlineRealty.com

For Sale

Listing Agent

Carol Menz

101 Sunset Blvd, Unit 2 & 3, West Cape May

The Black Duck Residences offer luxury living and are

poised above one of the town’s most charming and

walkable corridors. ‘Black Duck Landing’ (Unit 2) is

located on the second level and ‘Black Duck Nest’ on the

third level. Both units combine thoughtful craftsmanship

with an unbeatable address. No expense was spared in the

transformation of the iconic Black Duck property.

Unit 2

Unit 3

• 3 Beds / 3.1 Baths • 3 Beds / 3.1 Baths

• Approx. 2,134 Ft • Approx. 2,134 Ft2

Asking: $1,799,000

Asking: $1,999,000

Realtor®, Broker of Record

Cell: (609) 374-0325

CarolMenz@CoastlineRealty.com

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May

Carol Menz - Broker of Record/Owner


Your Way to Cape May

Starts with Coastline Realty

420+ Vacation Rentals

Cape May’s #1 Client Proven Choice

V23 N44

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