Atlantic City Weekly

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For the sixth year, 40 of our region’s most dynamic young leaders have been honored by the Greater Atlantic City Jaycees and Atlantic City Weekly. Some of them are entrepreneurial, some are community driven, others are just plain talented and inspiring. One thing they all have in common is that people from around the region nominated them to be one of this year’s Top 40 Under 40. Once again, we are excited to present this year’s honorees inside this annual issue. Our community is a richer one to live in thanks to them.

The Top 40 Under 40 Review Committee collaborated to review all nominations, select the 40 honorees and compile this feature while planning a special event to honor the 40 later this month at the MIXX nightclub at the Borgata. 

The committee consisted of Atlantic City Weekly staffers and members of the Greater Atlantic City Jaycees – Junior Chamber of Commerce. From the Jaycees: Jared Eisenberg, Tony Penza and Whitney Ullman.

From Atlantic City Weekly (Review Publishing): Jeff Schwachter, Lew Steiner and George Troyano. Listings editor Mike Pritchard and intern Kelley Anne Essinger also contributed to this project.

Anthony Amoroso Executive Chef, SeaBlue at The Borgata

Anthony joined the esteemed culinary team at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in September 2009 as the Executive Chef of SEABLUE, A Michael Mina Restaurant. Amoroso works closely with Chef Mina to create and bring to life nightly the award-winning seafood dishes Mina is famous for. Over the past 12 years this talented young chef has worked for several top hotels and restaurants throughout the Northeast. A New Jersey native, Amoroso graduated from the Culinary Arts Institute of Hudson County College and started his career at the Hilton at Short Hills and the Hamilton Park Hotel & Conference Center. In all positions held, Amoroso participated in menu development, kitchen management and operational systems development. Amoroso has attended the Aspen Food and Wine Classic, made several appearances cooking at the The James Beard House, appeared at cooking demonstrations and classes in Las Vegas and on local, regional and national television programs.

Ronald Bailey Emergency Medical Technician, Atlantic City

Ronald Vincent Bailey is a lifelong resident of Atlantic City. He grew up in the Ducktown section of the city and is still known for his helpfulness around the neighborhood. When Ronald was 12 years old he became a batboy with the Atlantic City Surf baseball team where he moved up the ranks and became one of the management members. In 2004 Ronald became a certified EMT. He was employed by Mutual Aid Emergency Services and Exceptional Medical Transportation. This career move put Ronald in a dream position where he could help people in need. In 2001 Ronald was nominated by his peers and received a distinguished citizenship award from the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement (NOBLE). Ronald is also the recipient of several other awards, including several for volunteerism with the American Red Cross. In 2009 Ronald was one of the youngest candidates to run for mayor in Atlantic City.

Robyn Boniewicz Program Director, AtlantiCare Women’s & Children’s Services

Robyn, of Smithville is program director for AtlantiCare Women’s and Children’s Services. As an AtlantiCare lead health educator, she has delivered more than 1,000 presentations to nearly 20,000 youth in Atlantic County. Prior to joining AtlantiCare, Robyn was a family health worker for Atlantic Human Resources Early Start. She is co-chair of the Atlantic County Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition and sits on the Southern New Jersey Perinatal Cooperative Board. She is a member of the Atlantic County Women’s Commission, United Way of Atlantic County’s Success By 6 Advisory Council and the Atlantic Human Resources Head Start Health Advisory Committee. She’s spoken nationally about health and wellness issues and has bachelor’s of science degree in public health from the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. She’s pursuing a master of business administration degree at Rutgers School of Business in Camden. Robyn enjoys learning about people, reading, baking and spoiling her niece.

Joseph (JoJo) Borsello Radio Personality & Promotions Director, 102.7 JSE Rocks

Joseph (JoJo), a New Jersey native, started college radio after high school in 1991 at 91.5 WDBK. After five years and three spring breaks at Camden County College (a two-year school), he began an internship and was soon hired at Q-102, WIOQ in Philadelphia. When his internship ended, JoJo was hired to do mornings at a radio station in Hattiesburg, Miss. After being there for two years, he moved to Colorado Springs to do nights at KKMG, which is where he met his wife. After eight years of relocating, he moved back to New Jersey and became a partner of Atlantic Broadcasting. Currently, JoJo is the promotions director and morning show host of “The Morning Edge with JoJo and Scotty” on 102.7 JSE Rocks. JoJo is active with fundraisers, charities and local events while using his radio show as a platform to help the community.

Linda Bruckler Sales & Marketing Manager, Hard Rock Cafe

Linda is a lifetime resident of Atlantic County who currently resides in E.H.T. She worked for the Tropicana Casino and Resort in Bus Marketing for 13 years until she joined the Hard Rock Café family in 2005 as the sales and marketing manager. Linda played a key role in repositioning the Hard Rock brand to the local community through live music events and philanthropic endeavours on a monthly basis. She jump-started Hard Rock’s Ambassador Program, which helps support charities, including Musicians on Call, the Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Fund, Autism Speaks, MDA, Bio Diesel Alliance, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, Sister Jean’s Kitchen, the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and the American Red Cross. Linda sat on the board for the Greater Atlantic City Tourism Council for two years and actively participates in numerous local organizations. Above all she is a super mom and mentor to two beautiful children.

Jennifer Burke Recreation Director, Historic Towne of Smithville’s Community Association

Aspiring to become an art teacher, Jennifer developed children’s art classes for the Galloway Cultural Arts Center at the age of 18. After graduating from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey in 2007 with a dual B.A. in visual arts and philosophy, her interest in the arts quickly turned into a passion for the arts and cultural tourism advocacy in Galloway Township. Currently she is the recreation director for the Historic Towne of Smithville’s Community Association and serves as president of the Galloway Cultural Arts Center (GCAC). She works to bring people together in new ways through community arts and recreation events. She continues to teach children’s art classes for the GCAC through a local arts grant that the organization receives from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Jennifer resides in Galloway with her fiancé Rob and their two-year-old son Riley.

Naeem Callaway Founder & CEO, Get Out The Box Inc.

Naeem is the founder and CEO of Get Out The Box Inc., a non-profit organization that works with at-risk youth in Atlantic County. Naeem’s mission is to show local youth that there is more to life than their “hood,” and block and their negative reality. He instead shows them that through hard work and education they can see and do anything they put their minds to. In April, Naeem will take this message to the world through the organization’s youth outreach tour, volunteering around the U. S. and overseas. He will be volunteering in New Orleans, Los Angeles, Kenya and climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise funds and awareness for the organization. Beginning this fall, Get Out The Box plans to send 10 youth per year through its mentoring program overseas to volunteer and do video documentaries of their work. Naeem has also worked with families who have children with emotional, behavioral, and mental issues as the executive director of The Family Support Organization.

Tobiellen Care Program Director, Alcove Center for Grieving Children & Families

Tobiellen is the program director of the Alcove Center for Grieving Children and Families located in Northfield. As the director, she heads the organization’s Bereavement Services Program, which provides free peer-support services to children and their families who have lost a loved one. She also heads the School Outreach Program, which delivers free grief-support services to children in distressed areas of Atlantic and Cape May counties. Last year, these programs provided services to over 500 children and adults across southern New Jersey. Tobiellen is also a member of the Traumatic Loss Coalition, whose dual mission is excellence in suicide prevention and trauma response assistance to schools following unfortunate losses due to suicide, homicide, accidents and illnesses. She is a member of the American School Counselor Association and NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). Tobiellen resides in Ocean City with her three-year old daughter, Chloe.

Stephanie Carr Director of Education Programs, Absecon Lighthouse

Stephanie has been a waitress, an actor, a fish, a face-painter, a monkey, a museum manager, a puppeteer, a secretary, a baker, a pre-k director and now a lighthouse keeper at Atlantic City’s Absecon Lighthouse. As director of education programs since August 2007, Stephanie has enjoyed educating the public about maritime and local history and garnering support for the mission of Atlantic City’s awe-inspiring, 153-year-old beacon. Ms. Carr holds a B.F.A. from Philadelphia’s University of the Arts and has over 10 years experience in theatrical performance, non-profit museum theatre and education. Using her unique skill set, Stephanie enriches the programs and events offered at New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse, such as “Haunted Tours” and “Pirate Day,” while promoting the non-profit’s revitalization of Atlantic City’s Inlet section. Stephanie is a devoted mother of three wonderful children, Hannah, Alexander and Benjamin, and she strives to create a brighter world for them.

Frank Conrad Co-Owner, LC Equipment Inc.; Party Hoppers LLC; and DRFC Enterprises LLC

Frank, a lifelong resident of New Jersey, was raised in Toms River, graduating from Monsignor Donovan High School in 1988. He attended Glassboro State College. Following college, Frank started a successful career in sales, gaining the experience to co-found three successful businesses. Believing he should give back to the community, Frank ran for political office and joined various business and charitable organizations. Currently he is serving his second term as an Upper Township committeeman. In 2009, he received the nomination to run for State Assembly in the first district and went on to win the Republican primary, but the economic climate caused him to withdraw from the race. Frank plans to continue to grow his small businesses and remains open to the possibility of future political endeavors. Frank is a proud father of two and has been married to Elizabeth Conrad for 17 years.

Anthony D’Alicandro Realtor, Coldwell Banker Casa Bella Realtors

Anthony began his real estate career in 1991 in the same Linwood office building on Route 9 from which he currently operates his firm, Coldwell Banker Casa Bella Realtors. Anthony has sold real estate consistently since then, having served every aspect of the real estate industry, working with everyone from first-time buyers and investors to corporate and government clients. In 2006, together with his wife, Jacqueline Andrews, Anthony opened Coldwell Banker Casa Bella Realtors, which quickly grew to become one of the premier brands in the southern New Jersey marketplace. Recreationally, Anthony is known in the cycling community and has competed in many elite bicycle races throughout the region. A native of Philadelphia, Anthony is proud of his association with the greater Atlantic City area and enjoys being of part of the continued growth and development of this great market.

Adam Dewechter NJ State Police Trooper, Police Explorers

Adam began his law enforcement career as a police explorer in Galloway Township. This early exposure to public service influenced him to join the Galloway Township Police Department and subsequently restart the Explorer Post after it had been discontinued. Leaving the Galloway Police, he joined the New Jersey State Police and spearheaded the first ever NJSP explorer program. This program, years in the making, is now approved and is poised to go statewide. Adam’s work and dedication has led to many young explorers entering law enforcement under his guidance. He has also volunteered his time as a wrestling coach at Absegami High School and organizes the alumni and active brotherhood of Tau Delta Phi Fraternity for the Martin Luther King Day of Service at Stockton College. Adam has a bachelor’s degree from Stockton and a master’s degree from Seton Hall University.

Darrell Edmonds Director, AtlantiCare Behavioral Health / Oakcrest Teen Center

Darrell graduated from the University of Delaware in 2002 and received his master’s of science in non-profit management in 2006 from Eastern University where he was honored with the Distinguished Strategic Management Award. In 2003 he began working for AtlantiCare Behavioral Health with the Atlantic City Family Centers. In 2006 he was promoted to the position of director to start the new Oakcrest Teen Center. Among the innovative programs that he has initiated at the Teen Center is the HYPE (Helping Youth Pursue Excellence) Mentoring Program. This unique program provides a Web-based platform to match high school students with professional adult mentors in a safe, monitored environment. Darrell also serves on the Executive Board for the Beatrice Mays Scholarship Fund and is an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Upsilon Alpha graduate chapter in Atlantic City.

Michael England Executive Chef, The Palm in Atlantic City

Chef Michael England’s culinary expertise, dedicated work ethic, desire for perfection and philanthropic commitment makes him an excellent asset to The Palm in Atlantic City. Michael’s rise to executive chef is an ideal display of his initiative in the workplace. Starting with the restaurant in 2005, Michael was promoted to executive chef in December 2007. The Professional Chef’s Association of South Jersey honored Chef England with its President’s Award in 2008 for his strong initiative, high standard of culinary skills, customer care and dedication to his kitchen and food quality. Recognizing Chef England’s superior standards, The Palm Restaurant Group chose Michael to assist in the opening of their newest location in London. During his time in London, Chef England finalized the menu selections, trained kitchen personnel and coordinated specialty dishes. Chef England is a caring supporter of Sister Jean’s Kitchen, Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City and McMeekin Foundation.

Sara Faurot-Crowley Director of Alumni Relations, The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey

Sara has been the director of alumni relations at the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey since 2003. She is responsible for planning and implementing a comprehensive alumni affairs program, which includes more than 50 events each year. Under her leadership, opportunities for alumni engagement have grown significantly and now include the Alumni Career Network, Professional Achievement Awards, the Richard Stockton Society, the Young Alumni Council, the Alumni Recruiting Council, program-affiliated events, as well as several regional alumni chapters. She also serves as a liaison to College Trustees, the Foundation Board of Directors, Alumni Association Representatives and more than 40,000 alumni of Stockton College. Sara grew up on Long Beach Island, received her B.A. from Columbia College and her M.A. from Lindenwood University. When not working, she can be found spending time with her husband Chris and two young children.

Samantha Ficcaglia Health Promotion Program Director, AtlantiCare

Samantha, of Millville, is AtlantiCare’s health promotion program director and leads AtlantiCare’s Healthy Schools Program, which combats childhood obesity by assisting 40 area schools in developing healthy lifestyle programming for students and families. Previously, she worked for Wilmington Head Start, Inc. and the American Cancer Society as a health educator. As the secretary for N.J. Action for Healthy Kids, Samantha has spoken regionally and nationally about obesity prevention and is a member of the Shaping N.J. Partnership. Outside of work, Samantha volunteers at her local church and with the Special Olympics and has worked on-site for Habitat for Humanity in South Dakota and Mississippi. She is pursuing a master’s of business administration from the University of Massachusetts and holds a master’s of public health from West Chester University and a bachelor’s degree from Villanova University. She and her husband are expecting a daughter.

Steven Gallagher Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center (ARMC)

Steven, of Somers Point, is an AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center emergency medical technician and primarily works at AtlantiCare’s 911 Dispatch Center in Egg Harbor Township. He also provides EMT response services at various ARMC EMS locations. He’s a cardio pulmonary resuscitation instructor at the ARMC EMS Life Support Training Center and is certified in pre-hospital trauma life support care. When a dog bit Steven’s young daughter in the eye, his life changed. Shortly after, he applied to the AtlantiCare NAACP Fellowship program and completed AtlantiCare’s first EMT training class. He is in the first class of the Atlantic Cape Community College (ACCC)/AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center Health Professions Institute paramedic training program. Steven was a 2009 AtlantiCare Customer Service Award winner. Outside of work, Steven teaches Sunday school at Beacon Evangelical Free Church in Galloway Twp. He and wife Shalini have a daughter, Lydia.

Jelani Garrett Assistant Executive Director, Atlantic City Housing Authority

Jelani is a graduate of Atlantic City High School and Rutgers University, New Brunswick, where he earned a bachelor of arts in urban studies. He has worked in the field of urban planning and community development in Atlantic City for the past 14 years and has distinguished himself as a competent and able professional with the ability to build consensus among stakeholders and to achieve major objectives. After working with a private landscape architecture firm and the Atlantic City Planning Department, he joined the Atlantic City Housing Authority in 2000 as part of the project management team to implement a $200 million neighborhood revitalization initiative. Jelani also currently serves as the assistant executive director of the Atlantic City Housing Authority. A dedicated husband and father, he resides in Egg Harbor Township with his wife and five children.

Austin Gerber Project Architect, SOSH Architects

Born and raised in southern New Jersey, Austin received a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University School of Architecture and then returned to his Downbeach roots to begin his professional career. Joining SOSH Architects in 2003, Austin has been an integral member of their team, working on numerous projects in the Atlantic City region. He was recently promoted to project architect after completing his licensing in January 2010. He offers his expertise, creativity and dedication not only to his clients, but also to his community. He is an active member of the Covenant House Young Professionals board. Austin is also a proud supporter of various other community and philanthropic organizations including: Absecon Republican Club, Gilda’s Club South Jersey, Shirley Mae Foundation, The Noyes Museum of Art and St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church. A graduate of Holy Spirit High School, Austin now resides in Absecon with his wife, Regina and five-month old daughter, Charlotte.

Anne Gramlich Firefighter, Atlantic City Fire Department

Born in Philadelphia, Anne grew up along the bay in Somers Point where her parents encouraged her to pursue her passions in life — music and athletics. She plays the flute, piano, guitar and also sings and is currently learning to play the bagpipes. Anne is also an avid rower and she was a founding member of the Mainland Mustang Rowing program. She received a scholarship to row at the University of Rhode Island, where she also earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. She currently coaches high school rowers. Anne also pursued her family tradition as a professional firefighter. In March 2007, she became the first female firefighter in the history of the Atlantic City Fire Department. Anne hopes to continue to break down barriers to diversity and lead by example.

James Hunt Attorney; Slater, Tenaglia, Fritz & Hunt

Jim is a partner with Slater, Tenaglia, Fritz & Hunt, where he specializes in commercial litigation. As head of the litigation department, he has played an integral role in the firm’s recent rapid growth. Hunt also coaches special-needs children in the South Jersey Field of Dreams baseball league, where he also serves on the board of directors and donates his time as the league’s attorney. He is a trustee of the Atlantic County Bar Association and former member of the Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division. Jim was also the founding chairman of the Atlantic County Young Republicans. He serves on the board of the James V. Ameo Scholarship Foundation, a northern New Jersey charitable organization. He has a bachelor’s degree from Swarthmore College and a law degree from Seton Hall Law School. In his spare time, Jim and his wife, Maureen, chase their rambunctious five children around their Margate home.

Beth Joseph Director of Communications & Donor Relations, Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Capy May Counties

Dedicated to promoting and strengthening community well-being, Beth oversees all donor programs, public relations, fundraising efforts and special events for JFS. She previously worked as media relations manager with Masterpiece Advertising and is an active member of the Public Relations Council of Greater Atlantic City, Metropolitan Business and Citizens Association, A.C. Chamber of Commerce and Atlantic City Convention and Visitors Authority. A Ventnor resident, she prides herself on being a helpful contributor to the Atlantic City area. Beth is an avid supporter of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City, Gilda’s Club South Jersey, the Alzheimer’s Association’s Delaware Valley Chapter and is a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Beth received a bachelor of science in communication from the University of Miami. A lover of the outdoors, she spends her spare time fishing, camping, bike riding and enjoying time with friends and family.

Chad Juros Founder, Spread the Magic Foundation

Chad is an award-winning magician who has been performing for over 16 years. Chad is a leukemia and brain surgery survivor. His father diverted Chad’s attention to the positive by teaching him magic while he was lying in a hospital bed at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Unexpectedly after his release from the hospital, his father was diagnosed with a brain tumor and passed away in 2000. Chad has dedicated himself to perfecting his act: the legacy his dad has left him. Today, Chad is the youngest magician ever to perform at the White House and he has been invited by the future prime minister of Aruba to perform for under-privileged families. He has also been seen on A&E and the Food Network. He is the founder of the Spread the Magic Foundation, a non-profit charity that helps to raise money to research for a cure for pediatric cancer.

Dennis Kleiner Business Agent, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 351

In 1994 Dennis was accepted into the Electrical Apprentice Program of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local Union 351. Dennis has been involved in many community service projects ranging from HUD to delivering food baskets. In 2005, he organized “The Ride for Charlie,” which brought together 300 motorcycles and 1,200 people for a benefit supporting a cancer-stricken child and his family. Dennis has held elected office in Local 351 for the past nine years. He successfully ran for office one year after completing his five-year apprenticeship in 1999, at the age of 25. In 2007, he was appointed a business agent for the IBEW, and this past year he was elected to Galloway Township Council. Dennis is a dedicated Union leader, and is now serving his community with the same passion and devotion that has delivered him to this point in his life.

Jesse Kurtz Founder, Atlantic City New Republican Club

Jesse is a lifelong resident of Atlantic City. Throughout his 25 years he has been involved in both his community and the city’s political life. Jesse went from passing out palm cards and canvassing his neighborhood as a pre-teen to running for mayor of Atlantic City. His natural interest in politics and government led him to speak out against corruption in his hometown. He worked his way through college, obtaining a bachelor of arts degree from St. Thomas More College in Merrimack, NH. Jesse founded the Atlantic City New Republican Club and in 2009 ran for mayor on a platform of lower taxes, fighting corruption, improving infrastructure, and promoting equality and justice. This message resonated with Atlantic City voters. As a first-time candidate, Jesse placed second of four candidates with nearly a quarter of the vote. Jesse is married to Cara Kurtz. They have two sons, Blaise (21 months), and Ambrose (four months), and they are raising their family in Atlantic City.

Travis Love Health Educator, South Jersey AIDS Alliance

An Atlantic City native, Travis is a local activist and artist who has used his talents to teach and inspire others in his community. After receiving his bachelor in fine arts degree from Montclair State University he moved to New York City and appeared in off-Broadway plays, as well as national tours of “In Between,” “Pinocchio” and “Seven Degrees of Separation.” Travis returned to his roots in 2008 to assist his family and serve his community. He currently works as a health educator for South Jersey AIDS Alliance, where he conducts workshops and facilitates support groups for at-risk community members. He also continues to be creative and work on his craft. He recently directed and starred in “Before It Hits Home,” a play to honor World AIDS Day and educate people about stigma and prevention, and he teaches dance and theater to the Stanley Holmes Village Work Team. Travis plans to continue to dream big, inspire, educate and serve his community.

Marla Marinucci

Attorney; April & Maudsley, P.A.

A lifetime resident of southern New Jersey, Marla practices family law in Atlantic and Cape May counties where she focuses on divorce and custody matters. She is very passionate about her work and enjoys helping her clients through what is usually the most difficult time in their lives. Marla received her bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University in Camden where she majored in French and received her J.D. from Rutgers School of Law in Camden. Marla is the co-coordinator for the Cape May County Mock Trial program, serves as a mediator in Superior Court, and also volunteers her time as a Matrimonial Early Settlement Panelist. Marla was recently appointed assistant prosecutor in Egg Harbor Township and is also affiliated with various organizations such as Shore Memorial Leaders Alliance and the Jaycees. An avid runner, Marla completed several half-marathons last year and plans to run her first full marathon this year.

Nicholas Menas Attorney/Partner, Cooper Levenson Law Offices

Nick, a partner at Cooper Levenson Law Offices, concentrates on commercial, industrial and residential real estate; zoning, planning and land use; Brownfield development and redevelopment and affordable housing compliance under Federal and New Jersey fair housing acts and regulations. Nick was recently appointed to Governor Chris Christie’s Transition Counsel, which provides legal support to 19 sub-committees. Nick is a board member of D.A.R.E. New Jersey, which provides 500,000 children with skills to avoid drugs, gangs and violence. Nick is also a board member of the Richard Stockton College’s Scholarship and Benefit Gala Committees, helping to raise $760,000 in scholarships last year. Nick serves on the Atlantic Cape Community College Foundation board, which raised $1 million for scholarships, is a board member of the A.C.C.C. Scholarship Benefit Committee and of the college’s Policies and Procedures Committee. Nick holds degrees from Stockton College, Widener University and Villanova.

Erin O’Hanlon Coordinator of Community Initiatives, Atlantic County Women’s Center

Erin has worked for the Atlantic County Women’s Center since 1998. Currently, she coordinates social justice community organizing as the coordinator of community initiatives. She provides training for sexual-assault advocate volunteers and co-facilitates an anger-management group for self-admitting batterers. She also is working on the center’s latest project providing services to incarcerated individuals and their families. Erin has a bachelor’s degree from Stockton College in communications, and received a master’s in instructional technology from Stockton in May 2006. She sits on the board of trustees for the N.J. Coalition against Sexual Assault as the vice chair. Erin volunteers with the Boy Scouts of America and is a provisional member of Charity League of Atlantic County. In 2009, she began to teach as an adjunct at Stockton College. She also writes a feminist blog and lives in Galloway Twp. with her partner, Charlie Keys, and their three sons.

John J. Petronis Sr. Founder/President, Junior Golfers’ Association of America

John is a Class “A” member of PGA of America. In 2006 he left managing golf courses to open a golf academy and grow junior golf in southern New Jersey. He is the founder/president of Junior Golfers’ Association of America, which offers scholarships, 35-plus events, a built in recruiting service, and free clinics. John is also the founder and PGA director of the Instruction at JGA Golf Academy. Several prominent golf students who play nationally and internationally gained college golf scholarships and have entered the golf business because of their enjoyment of his junior program. John also manages South Jersey Golf Association events and is an instructor for the “NBC-40 Golf Tip.” He is also a current board member and district chair for Optimist Junior Golf (N.J., Pa., and lower N.Y.), Philadelphia PGA Play Golf America and Junior Committees and a former Dennis Township Board of Education member. In his spare time, he is a musician in both original and cover projects.

Toby Rosenthal Co-Founder/Managing Member, Third Floor Video

Toby Rosenthal is the co-founder and managing member of Third Floor Video, LLC, a full service video production company where quality, storytelling, and attention to detail are paramount. Toby’s company produces life stories, television commercials, documentaries and live events. After years of living in New York City and Philadelphia, working to produce national cable and network television programs, the Margate native chose to move back to Atlantic County. She’s a graduate of Atlantic City High School, University of Maryland and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. Her recent community projects include collaboration on and production of three documentaries for the Holocaust Resource Center at Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. She also teaches Hebrew and on-camera skills to community children. Toby is married to Ted Greenberg and they have a two-year old daughter, Shoshana.

Jill Sharra Industrial Hygienist, Federal Aviation Administration

Jill has been a member of the southern New Jersey community since 1998. A strong commitment to the environment led her to pursue a bachelor’s and master’s degree in environmental science. Jill was appointed to the Manalapan Township Environmental Commission at 18 and served for six years helping the township practice sound planning principals to protect natural resources. While attending Rutgers University, Jill interned for then U.S. Sen. Bill Bradley (D) and attended the 1992 Democratic National Convention. Jill was a participant in the AmericaCorps service program, performing community service in Newark turning vacant lots into parks. As a certified industrial hygienist for the Federal Aviation Administration, she is responsible for the health and safety of over 3,000 employees performing research vital to developing the next generation of air travel. Jill has recently completed an executive leadership program for emerging leaders in the Federal government. She resides in Egg Harbor Township with her two daughters.

Justine Spinks Owner, Salons at Trump Taj Mahal & Trump Marina / BuddhaFul, LLC

Justine is a southern New Jersey native who has lived and worked in Atlantic City for 20 years. After graduating from Rutgers University with a master’s in public administration she joined the Greater Atlantic City Jaycees. From her involvement with the Jaycees, she formed business and charitable relationships still in effect. At 26 she incorporated her first business. She prides herself in helping people set and achieve goals. She currently serves as a board member for both the Angel Ball and the Believe in Dreams Foundation. Presently she owns the Salons at the Trump Taj Mahal and Marina as well as BuddhaFul, LLC, a spa consultant company and mobile day spa. She is also a member of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. In her free time she is writing two books entitled, “Why Are you Unemployable?” and “Gay Men and the Women Who Love Them.” Her motto is, “What you receive in life is directly related to the amount you give.”

Noel Stevenson Public Relations Manager, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

Noel has held the position of P.R. manager at the Borgata since the property’s debut in 2003. Overseeing the P.R. team at Borgata — in all facets, including nightlife and events; entertainment; celebrity relations; hospitality; dining; spa; retail; casino and gaming — Noel has worked on several important projects for the property. These include the national P.R. campaign for Borgata’s $200 million expansion; bringing in renowned chefs Bobby Flay, Wolfgang Puck and Michael Mina; the debut of the mur.mur nightclub; the launch of Borgata’s $400 million The Water Club, which received national recognition this year by the Society of American Travel Writers and the opening of Izakaya and Fornelletto Cucina & Wine Bar. In addition, Noel worked on Borgata charitable initiatives including DRINK PINK, benefiting breast cancer, and Borgata’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Wedding Contest. During Noel’s tenure, Borgata has garnered national exposure in all major markets across the country, establishing the property as the leading destination in Atlantic City.

Glen Ann Stoll Director of Community & Cultural Affairs, AtlantiCare

Glen Ann Stoll, of Absecon, is director of community and cultural affairs at AtlantiCare. Glen Ann has raised nearly $40 million in her professional career to promote community health through her tenure at the AtlantiCare Foundation, which raises funds for the programs and services of AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, and her service at United Way. She was proud to participate in fundraising for AtlantiCare’s cardiac surgery program, the only full-service cardiac surgery program in southeastern New Jersey, as a tribute to her father, who died of heart disease. In addition to fundraising at AtlantiCare, she is responsible for fostering community relationships, marketing health engagement activities and planning special events. She also initiated and leads AtlantiCare’s Healing Arts program, which has more than 1,000 pieces in its arts collection. She and husband, Chris, have two children, with whom she enjoys saltwater fishing, the Brigantine beach and the Florida Keys.

Jason Tell Owner/Operator, HBGC Events

Jason lives in Egg Harbor Township and has served as a volunteer at Lucy the Elephant for the past four years, elected to its board of trustees two years ago, and elected to the board’s vice president in 2009. He serves as special events director for the National Landmark and his work with Lucy has helped increase revenue for the non-profit organization and helped boost tourism for the “World’s Largest Elephant.” Jason is a board member of the Greater Atlantic City GLBT Alliance, which recently presented the Miss’d America Pageant at Boardwalk Hall. This event generated thousands of dollars for local and regional charities. For the second consecutive year, Jason will co-host the Diabetes Telethon for the Insulin Support Fund this March. Jason is owner/operator of HBGC Events, a full-service catering and service-staffing company specializing in theme parties in Atlantic City, Philadelphia, New Hope (Pa.) and New York.

Ralph Terrell Pastor, The Asbury United Methodist Church

Pastor Terrell sincerely admits that the early part of his preaching ministry was so difficult that on many occasions he pondered giving up because his lifestyle did not coincide with his preaching style. Even today, Ralph admits that he is a work in progress. He says that God, knowing that Ralph was a work in progress, permitted him to serve as the associate pastor of Franklin-St. John’s United Methodist Church and as the pastor of the historic St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church in Newark, where he doubled its membership and began vital outreach ministry to the community. Ralph received his B.A. in philosophy and religion from Paine College in Augusta, Ga. During his matriculation at Paine he was a UNCF scholar. He continued graduate work at Drew University, graduating with a master’s of divinity degree. He is currently enrolled at the Hood Theological Seminary in the Doctor of Ministry program. He is the husband of Radeyah Abdullah Terrell and the son of Dr. Lloyd and Marguerite Terrell of Newark. They have one daughter, Kyla.

Ken Wisnefski Founder/CEO, WebiMax

Ken Wisnefski is the founder/CEO of WebiMax, one of the nation’s leading online marketing firms and a serial Web entrepreneur. Prior to launching WebiMax, Ken was the creator of VendorSeek.com, an online business resource, which he started in his basement and grew to a $5 million-a-year business in just five years. As a respected leader in the online world, Ken has appeared on MSNBC, conducts a weekly radio program on CNN Radio and has been featured in hundreds of newspapers and magazines including the “Wall Street Journal” and the “New York Times.” Ken is a resident of Ocean City, where he lives with his wife, Allison, and their two children, Alec (4) and Anna (1) and their three dogs. Ken and his wife have been active contributors in donating to charities such as Gentle Giants, which assists large-breed dogs who have been abandonded and Zach’s Run, a charity devoted to the cure of Hunters Syndrome, which has affected the son of one of his close friends.

Shannon Wray Director of Marketing & Promotions, Equity Communications

Shannon began her career with Equity Communications in 1998 and returned to the team in 2009. With more than 15 years of experience in radio promotions, public relations and event planning, Shannon has worked with Clear Channel Radio in markets such as Miami, Tampa and Orlando, Fla.; Cincinnati, Ohio and Syracuse, N.Y. as marketing and promotions director. She collaborated along the way with radio celebrities such as Bubba the Love Sponge, Glen Beck and Carson Daly, coordinating special events and concerts surrounding Superbowl XXXV and the Gasparilla parade in Tampa and the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards in Miami. “The radio industry has changed tremendously with the mainstream use of satellite radio, iPods and Web site streaming, but there will always be a need for locally-based radio support in the community,” says Shannon. Currently, Shannon also serves as the public relations chairperson for the Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Assistance Fund.

Nicole Zacchi Convention Services Manager, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority

Nicole graduated from the University of Delaware in 2003 and began her career at the ACCVA that year. Nicole has held several positions at the ACCVA with increasing responsibilities, including a promotion to convention services manager in 2009. Nicole completed the first-ever event leadership certificate program from Temple University in 2007 and is the first ACCVA staff member to hold that certificate. She was recently named to the board of directors for the South Jersey Chapter of the International Special Events Society. Nicole sits on several committees, including the Atlantic City Restaurant Week Committee, the ACCVA Employee Activity Committee — helping administer an “Adopt a Family” program during the holidays — as well as food drives to benefit the southern New Jersey Food Bank. In the past, Nicole has worked with Gilda’s’ Club, as well as United Way of Atlantic County. Nicole currently resides in Absecon with her husband Stephen.