Greetings From the Garden State Ham Radio Productions

Join host Mike Ham in the latest episode of "Greetings from the Garden State" as he takes listeners on a thrilling journey to the Million Dollar Replay event hosted by the New Jersey Lottery at the Golden Nugget in Atlantic City. This exciting event, established in 2011, offers players the chance to transform non-winning scratch-offs into fantastic prizes, including the possibility of winning up to a million dollars. Mike immerses himself in the vibrant atmosphere of the event, where participants are filled with anticipation and excitement.

During the episode, Executive Director Jim Carrey joins the conversation to illuminate the event's purpose and the New Jersey Lottery's dedication to responsible gambling initiatives. Jim discusses upcoming Jersey-themed scratch-offs and progressive jackpots, adding to the anticipation of the event. As participants share their stories and strategies for playing the lottery, there's an undeniable sense of camaraderie and excitement in the air.

One of the episode's highlights is Frank Dandrea's exhilarating tale of winning $167,000 from a Cash Five ticket. Frank shares his winning strategy, which involves playing in various stores and keeping an eye out for lucky numbers. His story adds to the excitement of the event and inspires fellow players to keep chasing their dreams. Throughout the episode, the importance of responsible gambling is emphasized, reminding listeners to play within their means and enjoy the thrill of the lottery responsibly.

In conclusion, the episode captures the excitement and community spirit of the Million Dollar Replay event while promoting responsible play. With engaging stories, insights, and myths debunked, listeners are treated to an immersive experience that celebrates the thrill of the lottery while advocating for responsible gaming practices. Stay tuned for more captivating interviews and discussions in future episodes of "Greetings from the Garden State."
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We wander into the woods with Chef Phil Manganaro, the mastermind behind Marlton, New Jersey's Park Place Cafe and Restaurant. Phil unveils the restaurant's innovative approach, specializing in culinary creations crafted from foraged wild ingredients, a refreshing departure from conventional cooking methods. Delving into his culinary journey, Phil shares his upbringing in South Jersey, his culinary education in New York City, and his triumphant return to New Jersey to establish his dream eatery in Merchantville. Despite encountering hurdles like financial constraints and the lack of investors, Phil remains steadfast in his commitment to his vision, staunchly advocating for locally sourced, wild ingredients that fuel his creative process. Remarkably, Phil's unwavering dedication has garnered prestigious recognition, including a surprising James Beard nomination, a testament to his culinary prowess. Set amidst the serene woods of Marlton, New Jersey, this interview captivates listeners with Phil's infectious passion for his craft and his unwavering belief in the culinary potential of the Garden State.

In a fascinating segment of "Greetings from the Garden State," host Mike Ham is joined by Phil Manganaro, the visionary behind Park Place Cafe and Restaurant in Marlton, New Jersey, for an insightful exploration of outdoor experiences and wild farming. Phil's deep-rooted connection to nature, cultivated during his childhood adventures in the local woods, shines through as he shares his profound love for the outdoors and its influence on his culinary endeavors. Drawing on his expertise in foraging, Phil sheds light on native plants like Green Brier, advocating for sustainable harvesting practices rooted in respect for nature's bounty. As the conversation unfolds, Phil offers tantalizing glimpses into his upcoming documentary, "The King of Matsutake Ridge," which chronicles his journey as a chef and forager. Reflecting on the film's warm reception and its authentic portrayal of his life and values, Phil underscores the virtues of patience and humility in the pursuit of one's passions. Through his words, listeners gain valuable insight into Phil's ethos of sustainable living and his profound reverence for the natural world. As the episode draws to a close, listeners are encouraged to visit Park Place Cafe and Restaurant's website for reservations and updates on the documentary's eagerly awaited release.

https://www.parkplacecafeandrestaurant.com/
https://www.campcreekrun.com/

GET YOUR JERSEY FEST TICKETS NOW! https://www.seetickets.us/event/jersey-fest/588283

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com



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Mike welcomes guest Allison Strong to the show at Bravery Studios in Garfield, New Jersey. Allison talks about her recent endeavors in music and acting, highlighting her album release in July and opening for Jesse and Joy at the Palladium shortly after. She reflects on her journey from Broadway to television and film, emphasizing the importance of constantly evolving as an artist. Despite facing challenges and rejection in the industry, Allison remains resilient and grateful for the support she receives, especially from her home state of New Jersey.

During the conversation, Allison also shares insights into her experience working with Adam Sandler, particularly mentioning her roles in his projects. She mentions playing Adam Sandler's daughter in the movie "The Week Of" and voicing a character in his animated film. These experiences underscore her diverse talents and contributions to the entertainment industry. Mike and Allison discuss their respective artistic journeys, acknowledging the role of luck and supportive networks in their successes. They share experiences of unexpected opportunities and connections that have propelled their careers forward, emphasizing the significance of genuine relationships and community in the entertainment industry.

This adds a compelling dimension to her career trajectory, showcasing her versatility as an actor. As the interview draws to a close, both Allison and Mike express gratitude for the engaging conversation and the opportunity to share their insights with listeners. They emphasize the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and collaboration in pursuing artistic endeavors, leaving audiences inspired by their discussion. For those interested in learning more about Allison's work, they can visit her website and follow her on social media for updates on her upcoming projects and performances.

allisonstrong.com
Listen to Allison's music HERE
Check Allison out on Instagram
https://www.youtube.com/@allisonstrongvevo

GET YOUR JERSEY FEST TICKETS NOW! https://www.seetickets.us/event/jersey-fest/588283

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com
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In this episode, Jeremy DeFilippis provides an in-depth look into the evolution of Jetty, emphasizing the company's strategic decision to bring all operations in-house. By managing every aspect internally, Jetty ensures meticulous control over the quality and reputation of its brand. Jeremy takes pride in the fulfillment derived from employing a dedicated team of 51 individuals in Stafford Township, New Jersey, across three established buildings. This shift reflects Jetty's commitment to fostering a blue-collar work ethic and a strong connection to the local community, values deeply ingrained in its East Coast roots.

Reflecting on Jetty's collaboration with the New Jersey Devils, Jeremy highlights the success of their limited edition partnership and the overwhelmingly positive response from customers. He offers a glimpse into Jetty's future endeavors, teasing upcoming collaborations with industry leaders like Lowtides, Priority Bicycles, and Kona Big Wave Beer. These ventures showcase Jetty's versatility and its ability to expand into various industries while staying true to its coastal lifestyle brand identity.

Additionally, Jeremy discusses Jetty's foray into the brewing industry with its own beer line and plans to introduce technical outdoor gear such as wetsuits, further diversifying its product range. Underlining Jetty's dedication to community engagement, Jeremy sheds light on the Jetty Rock Foundation's multifaceted initiatives. From supporting environmental causes to promoting community education and disaster relief efforts, the foundation plays a pivotal role in giving back to the community.

Jeremy also emphasizes Jetty's extensive retail presence, spanning over 700 stores across the US, Canada, and the Caribbean. He discusses the company's strategic approach to balancing wholesale, retail, and online sales channels, ensuring broad accessibility to Jetty's products. Encouraging listeners to stay updated on Jetty's latest offerings and events, Jeremy invites them to explore the company's website and engage with its social media platforms. The episode concludes with gratitude for the opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and a commitment to continue sharing Jetty's inspiring journey of growth and community impact.

jettylife.com

GET YOUR JERSEY FEST TICKETS NOW! https://www.seetickets.us/event/jersey-fest/588283

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

Helix NJ helixnj.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com
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We're joined by Jake Reynolds, president of the Jersey Devils, and Devils legend, "Mr. Devil" Ken Daneyko. Together, they delve into the ongoing season and the distinctive community engagement initiatives spearheaded by the Devils.
Reflecting on the franchise's journey since its inception in 1982, Daneyko shares insightful perspectives on the evolution of the team and their profound impact on the state of New Jersey. He underscores the pivotal role of victories in fostering a dedicated fan base and reminisces about his personal transformation from player to broadcaster over the years.
Jake Reynolds sheds light on the Devils' unwavering commitment to community service and their profound integration into the cultural fabric of New Jersey. The conversation delves into the vital work of the Devil's Youth Foundation, which focuses on addressing pressing issues such as food insecurity, nutrition, and promoting healthy lifestyles in underserved communities across the state.
Despite the challenges encountered during the current season, both Jake and Dano exude optimism about the team's future trajectory. They emphasize the importance of cultivating a strong supporting cast to bolster the growth of the team's young core. The discussion concludes on a note of gratitude for the unwavering support of fans and the broader community, coupled with a palpable sense of anticipation for the exciting prospects that lie ahead for the Devils. Join us as we explore the Devils' enduring commitment to community impact and their bright outlook for future achievements both on and off the ice.

nhl.com/devils

GET YOUR JERSEY FEST TICKETS NOW! https://www.seetickets.us/event/jersey-fest/588283

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com
Support the show

We sit down with John Yarusi, the dynamic owner behind Johnny's Pork Roll and Coffee, a beloved establishment nestled in the heart of Red Bank, New Jersey. The conversation kicks off on a reflective note as they pay homage to the legacy of John Taylor, whose departure from New Jersey in 1906 marked a pivotal moment in the state's history. Taylor's influence, particularly in shaping the identity of New Jersey through his invention of pork roll, serves as a poignant backdrop for their discussion.
As Yarusi shares his entrepreneurial journey, listeners are transported into the world of Johnny's Pork Roll, a culinary venture that began humbly as a food truck. Driven by his profound love for New Jersey and a desire to reignite appreciation for the iconic pork roll sandwich, Yarusi embarked on a remarkable odyssey, navigating the challenges of the food industry with determination and zeal. Despite lacking formal culinary training, his unwavering passion propelled Johnny's Pork Roll to new heights, culminating in the establishment of a brick-and-mortar location in Red Bank.
Throughout the episode, Yarusi delves into the intricacies of his personal background, offering insights into his upbringing, experiences in radio and advertising, and the pivotal moments that shaped his journey as an entrepreneur. His anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the trials and triumphs he encountered along the way, illustrating the resilience and spirit of innovation that define New Jersey's entrepreneurial landscape. Moreover, Yarusi emphasizes the profound sense of community that lies at the heart of Johnny's Pork Roll, highlighting the camaraderie among food truck owners and the deep-rooted connections forged through shared culinary experiences.
As the conversation unfolds, Yarusi articulates his vision for the future of Johnny's Pork Roll, expressing a fervent desire to expand its reach beyond the borders of New Jersey. With plans to take his concept nationwide through a traveling show, he envisions spreading the joy of pork roll while celebrating the rich tapestry of Jersey culture. In doing so, Yarusi hopes to showcase the unique blend of tradition, innovation, and camaraderie that distinguishes Johnny's Pork Roll as a beacon of culinary excellence in the Garden State and beyond.
In essence, this episode encapsulates the essence of community, nostalgia, and culinary creativity that define the cultural significance of pork roll in New Jersey. Through Yarusi's compelling narrative and unwavering passion, listeners are treated to a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Jersey heritage, where food serves as a conduit for connection, celebration, and shared memories. Whether you're a native Jerseyite or a curious outsider, this episode promises to leave you craving a taste of Johnny's Pork Roll and the vibrant spirit of the Garden State.

johnnyporkroll.com

GET YOUR JERSEY FEST TICKETS NOW! https://www.seetickets.us/event/jersey-fest/588283

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

New Jersey Innovation Institute: njii.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com
Support the show