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Its possible that 60 years ago Ernie
Merighi, Sr. and Rose Odorizzi
Merighi expected their business to last
for 60 years and beyond because they put
so much inspiration and hard work into it.
Ernie was born into an Italian immi-
grant family in Canada in 1913 and Rose
was born likewise in Vineland in 1917,
where Ernie moved as a child and where
they were married.
They had both worked hard on family
farms and then in factories, but always
had their minds on higher goals. In 1954,
with two teenage sons, borrowed money,
and proceeds from selling their home,
Ernie and Rose left their reliable but rou-
tine jobs and bought an old, unsavory
hotel and bar at the remote corner of
Landis Avenue and Union Road in what
was known as East Vineland.
The former Hotel Savoy was closest towhat we categorize as a biker bar, just
an outpost with a few rooms upstairs
located on a thoroughfare, but far from
commercial centers. It was known more
for its fights than its cuisine; more for its
rowdiness than even for its whiskey.
This didnt deter Ernie and Rose any
more than their lack of experience did.
They actually had no experience, not in
business, not in pleasing customers, not in
restauranteering.
MERIGHI FAMILY DECADES BALL
As a celebration of the longevity andtradition of an area landmark and as acharitable event typical of the Merighifamily, the first Decades Ball in aplanned series is set for Saturday,March 8, beginning at 7 p.m.
Commemorating the 60th anniver-
sary of Merighi's Savoy Inn, the dinnerbenefits Rotary Club of Vineland,YMCA of Vineland, and InspiraHospice. A memorable evening willunfold amidst the homey glamour thatis unique to the Savoy. The MelanieRice Orchestra performsa first-classgroup with a versatile repertoire.
The event is open to the public.Come celebrate with us, said
owner Tom Merighi, Jr. You don'tneed an invitation.
Tickets are $100. In case you're
coming from afar, or don't know whereMerighi's is (unlikely), the address is4940 E. Landis Avenue, Vineland. Areservation is required. Call 856-691-8051 or e-mail [email protected].
First in a planned series? Merighi,referring to the 50th anniversary gala,said he's calling it Decades becausethere will be one every 10 years, to hismind, into the distant future.
Only to mark decades, though.After the 2004 event, people told me
we have to do this every year, Merighirecalled. And I said, no, we don't.
Continued on next page
MERIGHIS SAVOY TIMELINE1954 Ernie and Rose Merighi sell
their house, leave their jobs and buy theHotel Savoy, a troubled roadhouse in thefarming community called EastVineland.
1950s and 60s The couple, withno business or food preparation trainingor experience, gradually builds a suc-cessful business around Rosie's cook-ing and Ernie's entrepreneurial acumen.
1969 Ernie, Jr. and Tom Merighibecome co-owners of the tavern and thefamily invests $300,000 in a massivebanquet hall/ballroom, the first in thearea.
1971 A lounge is added to the bararea, later named Ernie's Place for ErnieMerighi, Sr.
1983 The first of several renova-tions to the ballroom is completed.
1988 Tom Merighi, Jr. formally joinsthe business founded by his grandparentsafter working for years in all capacitiesfrom dishwasher to banquet manager.
1989 The Rose Room, named forRose Merighi, opens for smaller privateparties.
1990s Shifts in cuisine, decor, styleand timing of events, and an emphasison personalized weddings help the busi-ness respond to the needs of a changingmarketplace.
Ernie's Place is transformed into TheBistro, the current tavern and public din-ing area
2002 Savoy Gardens opens, it is anatural ceremonial photography land-scape on the restaurant grounds.
2004 An ornate charity ball marksMerighi's 50th anniversary.
2009 A majestic Grande Ballroomentrance is built.
2012 A 100 kW solar field goesonline, supplying half of the electricity tothe restaurant and ballroom, plusLuna's, a 125-seat outdoor dining spaceand courtyard opens to the public.
2014 Merighi's celebrates its 60thanniversary with the charity Decades Ball.
Sixty years and three generations later, the outpost at Landis
and Union is a place for camaraderie and celebration, an
emotional anchor for the community, where thousands have
marked their personal histories along with the Merighi family.
WRITER: MICKEY BRANDT; EDITOR: DEBORAH A. EIN
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MERIGHI FAMILY UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED
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They did have two things, though, that
were invaluable to the future of the tavern
and, thus, the family.
They had a work ethic, honed in facto-
ry and on farm and nourished by proud
Italian tradition, that allowed them to
work from early in the morning until late
at night, seven days a week, learning and
doing and striving, and dreaming.
And they had Rose.
She may not have met the profile or
standards of a Top Chef, in todays hard-
charging restaurant business where glam-
our and reputation often supplant simple
skill in knowing whats good for body and
soul, but she became a legend nonetheless.
Culinary excellence was instinctive in
Rosies Kitchen, as it can be only in the
arena of a grand old Italian matriarch.
Long after she was gone from the Savoy
and later, from this life, some older Savoy
guests have still been heard to say,
I wish I could have her ravioli.
Before she finally retired, her
grandson, Tom Merighi, Jr., made it
his calling to learn her recipes.
What he learned is that, while she
had some, a lot of her cooking was
described as making something
out of nothing, and just knowing
how to put it together, using freshingredients, spices, and techniques
that couldnt be exactly duplicated.
She wrote them down for me,
Merighi recalled, but I couldnt
follow them.
(There will be a Grandma Rose
station at next weeks Decades Ball
featuring some of her treasured
recipes.)
The place remained plain, not
elaborate. Simple, not fancy. But the
food was great, and the atmosphere
had become friendly, safe, and
popular.
With a well-established and
eventually thriving business,
including a 30-seat serving area, the
founders were anxious to share it with
their sons, Ernie, Jr. and Tom (Tom, Sr.
now). The boys, though, with careers,
maintained that they had other plans.
Only when their parents were on the
verge of selling, did the inn become a gen-
erational business.
Ernie and Tom expanded significantly,
both capitalizing on the proud, past tradi-
tion of the Savoy and anticipating what
they knew would be the developing,
demanding nature of food service, as it
came to be called. Mimicking the early
days of the Savoy, they expanded with a
ballroom/banquet hall, even with no
experience in such a large enterprise,
working very hard and learning by trial
and error.
They fulfilled their parents dream and
Continued on page M4
Continued from previous page
Ernie and Rose Merighi bought the Hotel Savoy in 1954 and moved in upstairs.
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carried the old bar into the 1970s and 80s.
Then, it was easier to continue the unfold-
ing family dynasty. Tom, Jr. was ready.
In 1988, he became co-owner with his
dad, and then president and operating
manager. He said there was nothing else
he ever imagined possible, nor did he
want it any other way.
I always dreamed of it, he said recently.
It was in my bones; I had done every job
here and I still love it.
What about the next evolution of the
enterprise? Tom, Jr. and his wife Leanne
have four children and each one has aworking role at the Savoy. They are Tom,
known as T.J., 18; Juliana, 17; Timothy, 13,
and Alaina, 11, who worked her first time
two months ago checking coats during the
New Years Eve party. One can draw his or
her own conclusion, I guess.
From that old rural bar, the Merighi
family has built not just an enduring edi-
fice, but an emotional anchor for the
community. Its a place where people
mark their personal histories and over the
decades, thousands have. Their birthday
parties, graduations, reunions, honor ban-
quets and, what the Savoy is so widely
known for, their weddings, have formed a
far-flung tapestry of enjoyment and
meaning.
Happy 60th from your people, who are
treasuring the Merighis of the past, laud-
ing the Merighis of the present, and antic-
ipating the Merighis of the future.
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Continued from page M6
TALKING WITH TOM, JR.
Can one go out every night with a dif-
ferent crowd, feel right at home, and
always have a great time? Tom Merighi
does.
I had asked the Savoy Inn owner whathis favorite aspect of work was and he
said, essentially, chillin with his cus-
tomers, but in his generations language.
I love talking to people, he said.
Generally, people come here when
theyre happy and I love being a part of
that.
Not unlike the garrulous, popular (and
tough) bartender at the Savoy Hotel in
the 1950s, Ernie Merighi, Toms grandfa-
ther, who started the business 60 years
ago in a small, rough-and-tumble water-
ing hole in the sticks of East Vineland.
Now, Tom gets to mingle with lounge,
dinner and banquet guests by the thou-
sands in the spacious (and safe) environs
of the inn that bears the familys proud
name and, now, innovative tradition.
He wanted it no other way when he
had the chance to go into business with
his father, Tom, Sr., in 1988 after being a
dishwasher, busboy, server, bartender, and
banquet manager. I always dreamed ofgetting into the business, Ive done every
job here and I love it, h e said. I knew I
wanted to do it since I was 12 years old.
I asked about the differences over 60
years and learned that Tom lives in a dif-
ferent universe than his forebearers.
My grandparents had no experience
at all when they opened, he said. In that
time, hard work got you by and they
learned as they went.
Now, this is one of the toughest busi-
nesses going, he continued. You have to
This old photo of the corner of East LandisAvenue and Union Road shows Hotel Savoyin the background.
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PO Box 335 1257 Harding HwyRichland, NJ 08350
856-697-2421
Fax 856-697-9288
Congratulations60thAnniversary
From the Orlandini family andall your friends at
be an expert in everything. (Economic
studies peg the failure rate of restaurants
at 80 to 90 percent.)
He noted success involves being
versed in management, finance, market-
ing, customer service, purchasing, humanresources, health regulations, food safety,
and even allergies.
Plus, you have to have a good person-
ality and know how to schmooze, he
went on. Its just the way it is.
Okay. As this litany ended, an old
friend looked into Toms walk-in-closet-
sized office to ask how he was. Im living
in tall cotton, the schmoozer replied.
Then, he revealed that he heard that
phrase from an older couple, but neversaid it before and wasnt sure exactly
what it meant. Not unlike Ernie and Rose
keeping up and improving an unfamiliar
business by listening, trying, and being
eternally optimistic.
(Ernie and Rose would have had to ask
friends about living in tall cotton
instead of using Google, but my search
told me its southern in origin and
describes wealthy landowners with boun-
tiful cotton crops. Its also the name of an
Continued on next page
TOP: Co-founder Rose Merighi in 1991, twoyears after the opening of the Rose Room inher honor. ABOVE: The Savoy lounge as itwas around the 1970s.
888-223-GOBC (4622) Bcprocessing.com
258 N. Main Rd. Vineland, NJ 08360
888-223-GOBC (4622) Bcprocessing.com
258 N. Main Rd. Vineland, NJ 08360
Congratulations to the Merighi Family
On the cutting edge for 60 Years!
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assisted living center in L.A.)
Listening and trying has helped
Merighi change and adapt to the sea
changes in his industry that contributed
to the demise of so many fine local estab-
lishments, such as the New York Inn,
Midway Tavern, White Sparrow, and
Neptune.
He has overseen several expansions of
the banquet hall, creation of Savoy
Gardens, building of a classic grande ball-
room entrance, opening of the Rose Room
(named for Grandma Rose), installation of
a solar power field, and creation of
Lunas. Menu changes, new entertain-
ment options, developing wedding
options for todays market, and dealing
with customer demands are all part of thetorturous ballet of building and maintain-
ing the brand.
I asked for tales from the Savoyall
that liquor and schmoozing and those
uncountable events including, I imagined,
at least some unruly weddings, probably
yielded dozens of anecdotes that would
make my story both longer and more
interesting.
Niente. Maybe there was a groom or
two who didnt make it through, but no,
talking about happenings wouldnt pleasesome people and Tom wasnt going to do
it. But I do get to write a few paragraphs
that retreat from the hazards of the food
service trade and revert to the roots of the
stalwart Savoy Inn of Ernie and Rose.
Tom lived in a family home that is now
a restaurant parking lot until he was five.
Its all we knew, he said. It was the
fabric of all our lives.
The fabric encompassed Dad not being
around much because of the business. Butit also encompassed important life and
livelihood lessons.
Learning about food service and how
to get along with people was invaluable,
Tom said. And of course, we ate well.
Toms children benefit in both ways,
too. He said they have the ability to deal
with adults respectfully and that will
serve them well in whatever they end up
doing.
I asked what he thinks they will end
up doing. He was a bit tight-lipped on this
one, too, but seemed to be suppressing
excitement.
T.J. (oldest son, now in college) has
become a great server, he allowed.
The notorious old Savoy Inn had rooms
on the second floor (hence, Hotel) and
the original Merighi clan used them for
the first family homestead. Theyve been
vacant for decades. The innovators nextoptimistic try may be to renovate them for
private dining areas.
At least I can say were moving up,
he deadpanned and pushed back from his
desk to go to work as a bar back for a few
minutes.
Things are always uphill when some-
body doesnt show up. he said.
Then, he took my empty breakfast
plate and we said goodbye.
Continued on page M8
www.edcostantetire.com
480 S. Delsea Dr. Vineland
856-696-3206
Happy 60thAnniversaryto Merighis Savoy Inn
from
Your HometownFlooring ExpertsSince 1971
1309 Harding Hwy.Richland, NJ
(856) 697-3041
Congratulationsto the Merighi FamilyWishing You
Continued Successfrom
Phil and Jeanne Marie Brunozzi
Continued from previous page
Three generations of Merighi restaurateursRose Rosie Merighi, her son Tom Merighi,
and her grandson Tom Merighi, Jr.
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THE BATON
In 1969, Rose and Ernie Merighiwere selling their beloved Savoy.The new owner was scheduled tobring his deposit on Saturday. But,on an extraordinary Wednesday, afateful conclave with their sonsErnie, Jr. and Tom cemented the innas a lasting family enterprise whenall agreed the youngsters wouldtake over.
Tom Merighi, Sr., now 76, and hisbrother, who passed away in 1979,didnt initially want the restaurant.
It was a weekend business; Iwas a young man, I wanted datesand dancing, not work, Merighisaid last week from his winterhome in West Palm Beach. Aftercollege, he worked for the U.S.Department of Defense at the
Vineland Armory.I grew up in that three years,
he said. I decided that running therestaurant would be right.
But, despite the Savoys populari-ty in the community, there wasn'tenough money for three families.That led to another fateful decisionthe Merighi's built the banquet hall.
We took a chance and made ahuge investment because wethought there was a need in the
area, Merighi said. We madesome mistakes but, fortunately, itcaught on.
That expansion was essential tothe stable success the enterprisenow enjoys, even though. restauran-teering has one of the highest fail-ure rates of any business.
I worked seven days a week, 14hours a day, Merighi said. Wesimply refused to quit, it wasn't anoption, and we finally started mak-
ing money.Ernie Merighi didnt want to stay
in the business and Tom Merighibecame principal owner.
In all the years we were in business together, we never had an argumentand you know how hard that is in a family, Tom Merighi said.
As the 1980s economic challenges unfolded, Tom Jr., born at the time ofthe first generational shift, eagerly followed family tradition and began hisapprenticeship.
I put him everywhere, the senior Merighi said. He was a dishwasherfirst, then busser, waiter, bartender, cook; I wanted him to know all of it sohed be ready.
By his college graduation in 1988, he was indeed ready and assumed co-ownership as the legacy passed to its third generation.No one has to tell either father or son why a restaurant even existed for
them to own.My parents did all the hard workthey started it, the senior Merighi
said, We just carried it on.Through my few days last week with the Merighi family and their creation,
I deduced there are three reasons they are able to celebrate next week their60 years in business. Those are work, work, and work. Allowing, just maybe,for a little luck.
Tom Merighi, Sr. paused in his pattern of rapid-fire answers to my ques-tions when I insisted there must be more.
Maybe we were blessed, I dont know, he said. MB
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~ Happy 60th Anniversary ~
WILHELMROOFING COMPANY
Preventive MaintenanceOur Specialty
QUALITY SINCE 1926
INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL
CERTIFIED BONDED INSURED
(856) 691-6161 www.wilhelmroofing.com
Free Inspection & EstimatesMaterials & Workmanship Assured in Writing
We Stand Behind Our Work
TOP: Ernie and Rose Merighi at therestaurant circa 1960.MIDDLE: Tom Jr. filled every role at theSavoy Inn as he prepared himself to takethe reins.BOTTOM: On New Years Eve, the wholeMerighi family worked together for thefirst time, including their youngest, Alaina,who worked the coat room.
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MERIGHIS ROLE IN THE
COMMUNITY
Tom Merighi, Jr. has been a very active
member of the Board of Directors on the
Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA for
more than a decade, served a recent term
as president of the board, and has chaired
dozens of committees. The YMCA is hismajor charity at this time and one of the
beneficiaries of the Decades Ball.
He worked to establish the 7th Grade
Initiative Program, promoting healthy
lifestyles and positive role models to this
age group. They receive free YMCA mem-
berships to help combat childhood obesity
and sedentary lifestyles.
He is serving a five-year term as com-
missioner and treasurer for Landis
Sewerage Authority, appointed byVineland City Council and is a member of
the Buena Vista Township Economic
Development Committee and the
Cumberland County Vo-Tech School
Community Advisory Committee.
He served nine years on the Board of
Directors for the Greater Vineland
Chamber of Commerce, was on the execu-
tive committee and chaired other commit-
tees. He is on the board of the United Way
Greater Philadelphia and Southern New
Jersey in Cumberland County.
The Savoy has won Small Business of
the Year from the Chamber. Last year,
Merighi was awarded the Live United
Award by the United Way.
Merighis active memberships in, and
support of, include these business-support
and community-service groups: Italian-American Benevolent Association,
Continued from page M6
Congratulations onCelebrating 60 Years!
We Wish YouContinued Success
fromSt. Padre Pio ParishOur Lady of Pompeii
4680 Dante Ave.Vineland, NJ
St. Marys Union Rd.Vineland, NJ
856-691-7526www.pppnj.org
Congratulations to the Merighi family from
Your friends, Betty & Gary Galloway!
What You Need, When You Need It
Equipment For: Contractors HomeownersIndustry Environmental
Major Credit CardsAccepted
Delivery Available
rentalcountry.comGary Galloway,
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Vineland - 856-692-7510 Cape May Court House - 609-465-7368
Egg Harbor Twp. - 609-646-6666 Sicklerville - 856-227-4242
RENTALS SERVICE SALES PARTS
Toll Free:866-692-7510
Est. 1981
Congratulationsto the Merighi
Family onYour 60th
Anniversary AndContinuedSuccess!
3600 E. Landis AveVineland, NJ
856-697-2444
Tom Merighi Sr. (left), Congressman FrankLoBiondo and Tom Merighi, Jr. at the restau-rant in 1996. PHOTO: JOE PROFETTO
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Sicilian-American Club, Vineland
Dandelion Festival committee (past chair-
man), International Game Fish
Association, New Jersey Licensed
Beverage Association, and RecreationalFishing Alliance.
Hes a member of the St. Augustine
Prep Board of Governors and was its Hall
of Fame Cultural Award recipient in 2011.
The Merighi family has supported
innumerable organizations through cash
donations and, more importantly, through
in-kind contributions through the Savoy.
The family has raised money for, amongmany others, the American Cancer
Society, Hendricks Halfway House, St.
Marys School, The Dream Foundation ,
and the Boys and Girls Club.
A decades-long tradition at the Savoy is
the complimentary hosting for Tiny TimNight each Christmas season. Volunteer
carolers assemble to warm up with snacks
and hot beverages
after a night of rais-
ing funds for med-
ical services for
needy area children.
Toms passion for
fishing and boating
is well-known and
he works ferventlyto protect the sport
and promote safe
access to oceans and
waterways for gener-
ations to come. Tom
and Leannes children adopted the hobby,
too. In fact, Juliana holds the
International Game Fish Association jun-
ior female world record for a striped bass
she caught on her dads boat in 2011; it
weighed 58.8 lbs. and measured 54 inches.
Congratulationsto the
Merighi FamilyonYour
60thAnniversary
Frank Jr. and Liz
GuaraciniFamily
Joan & Joe
Marandino
22 W. Landis Avenue
Vineland NJ 08360
856-691-0741
FAX: 856-691-4655
www.sirspeedy.com/vineland
Congratulationsto the
Merighi Familyon the
60thAnniversaryof
Continued on next page
Merighis Savoy Inn staff in 2004.
Congratulations to
Anniversary!60thon theirSydney L. Tyson, MD, MPH
OTHER LOCATIONS: Cherry Hill (856) 482-5797
Blackwood (856) 227-6262 Hammonton (609) 567-2355
Mays Landing (609) 909-0700 Toll Free 1-800-922-1766
www.sjeyeassociates.com
856-691-8188
251 S. Lincoln Ave., Vineland, NJ 08361
SOLAR GENERATES HALF OF SAVOY ELECTRICITYShortly after Luna's opened, after two years of research and construction,
the Savoy lit up with solar power generated by a $500,000 array behind theparking lot. It has an output of 100kW from 442 panels. While his hopes forthe cost-cutting aspects of the move haven't been realized, Tom Merighi, Jr.said he was primarily motivated by environmental concerns in any case.
In 60 years, not every decision is a home run, he said. It's good we canstand a few bunts.
Construction of commercial solar fields has slowed due to changes in the
marketplace. Greater solar output by utilities has limited financial incentives tosmaller installations and government subsidies are gradually being withdrawn.
Economically, Merighi said, It was quite a disappointment, but it's just asrisky as any other part of my business. Customers want to know about thewhole process and how it works; they like it.
Technically, it's working fine. Financially it didn't work out.Environmentally, of course, it is a home run and Merighi is proud of being
able to reduce his restaurant's carbon footprint. It is also fitting that thebusiness is in Vineland, which is a pace-setting community nationally insolar power output. Officials have said that upon completion of the next gas-driven turbine, the city will be able to generate all of its power needs andwill be grid independent.
The solar field was installed by ASC Solar of Buena. Partners in creatingthe project included Capital Bank of Vineland, Lawn and Garden Landscapingof Vineland, and General Fence and Concrete of Millville. MB
2012 ribbon-cutting ceremonyfor the Savoys solar array.
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AN EXCITING DAY AT LUNASThe latest expansion of Tom Merighis vision is
Lunas Outdoor Bar and Grille, which opened in April,
2012. Its a deck dining and bar area built on the west
side of the Savoy.
I wanted to give the property an option for folks who
value a lighter, less expensive night out, Merighi said. I
predicted customers would want to be outside in fair
weatherand boy, do they!People come both long distances and around the block
to enjoy Lunas and a good part of the crowd parties there
regularly.
July 1, 2012 was a surprisingly bright day for Lunas in
the midst of frightening darkness. One of the most
destructive and fast-moving severe thunderstorm com-
plexes in North American history roared through the
Mid-Atlantic states the night before and the new word
derecho entered the lexicon.
But the groom said the wedding at Merighis Savoy Inn
had to go on.
We went into double-panic emergency mode, Tom
Merighi, Jr. said. He called on his family, his employees,
and his suppliers for a superhuman effort. With everyone
working in the dark and 90-degree heat, the receptionwas moved to the new Lunas deck. Employees called in,
not to say they couldnt come, but asking if Tom needed
more help. He used the 58 years of his familys goodwill
and community building to get all the professional help
he needed to get the entire property cleared and supply
lights and refrigeration to his restaurant with a makeshift
generation system.
I only needed enough power to keep the beer cold,
run the DJs sound, and operate a couple fans, Merighi
said. We all agreed early in the day that we could have
scowls and say it was too hot and too inconvenient, or we
could just dial it up and put it on.
They put it on. And it
worked. It seemed normalin most ways.
But it was the hardest
12 hours of my life,
Merighi said.
Best Wishes on Your60thAnniversary!
856-794-8625
517S. East Ave.
Vineland
Joseph DAmato
License# 8315
Congratulations...on Making Memories for 60 Years!
Congratulations...on Making Memories for 60 Years!
wedding receptions
corporate functions bar/bat mitvahs
www.VIPDJs.com
856.293.0475
Congratulations to the Merighi Family on their60th anniversary! Thank you for your business.
Est. 1963
Call 1-800-642-9124Vineland, New Jersey
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Congratulations On Your 60th Anniversary!
Steve Heck, Owner/Operator525 Elmer Street
Vineland, NJ 08360
Phone: 856-692-7378Fax:856-691-1936
E-mail: [email protected]
Congratulations Merighis Savoy InnOn Your 60thAnniversary
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Congratulations to the Merighi Family OnYour 60thAnniversary Donna and Rich
OAK& BREWSTERROADS VINELANDNJ 08361-2507
856-691-9060
Lunas Outdoor Bar & Grill opened in 2012. An exterior shot from the rear parking lot isabove. Below is a peek at the lower seating area. The eaterys logo is at right.
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8/21/2019 Merighi's Savoy Inn 60th Anniversary
11/12
WWW.GRAPEVINENEW
SPAPER.COM
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the
grapevine
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EVERY DAY AT LUNAS
Think summer, as hard as it may be
right now. Lunas is surrounded by green
fields and open spacesa fine environment
for laid-back enjoyment and a reflection. A
large bar area has everything from Bud
Light to Blue Point Toasted Lager to Lunas
favorite: Blue Moon. Signature drinks
include cucumber and pineapple martinis,
mojitos, blue moons, Sweet Melissas, and
the unique Luna-tic (made from vodka,limoncello, agave, blue curacao, and ginger
ale). Its hard to get your mind around this
right now, but soon you can enjoy the
house vodka infusions quickly made
famous at Lunas.
A spacious terracotta-hued space of
covered seating is adjacent and outside is
an airy al fresco patio with umbrellas
shielding the tables. Some of the deck was
made from reclaimed pickle-barrel wood,
in keeping with Merighis efforts to be asgreen as possible in his business.
The deck fare menu matches the bucol-
ic surroundings and includes ribs, seafood,
salads, and sandwiches. You can also get
gourmet flatbreads, pita with hummus,
and edamame. A recent addition is a
Mexican menu.
A Lunas favorite is New Italy Po Boy,
which is grilled sausage dressed with broc-
coli rabe, sharp provolone, and sliced
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152 Harding Hwy.
Vineland, NJ 08360
(856) 697-1234
www.antonsfloristnj.com
Congratulations onYour 60thAnniversary!
CongratulationsOn Your
60thAnniversary!
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CELL 856.305.7032
856.507.1889
FAX 856.507.0149
WWW.DMFGLASS.COM
CongratulatesThe Merighi Family
on 60 Years ofexcellence at the
Savoy
1517 South Delsea Drive Vineland
856-692-1700Se Habla Espaol
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PATRONS
AND PARTY-GOERSMerighi's Savoy Inn was a dissonantscene on Saturday night. On the patio ofLuna's, dozens of 20-somethings,dressed for PJs and Parkas Night,mingled and flirted in their casual fash-ion or sat with friends amid pitchers ofgood beer, free hot wings, and what was
to me blasting music, but to them wasprobably just background ambiancetheir version of Frank Sinatra. With cell-phones prominent, lest someone missthe latest tweet, they partied on oblivi-ous to the 40-degree temperature andthe staid ensemble gathered in the shel-ter of the indoor Bistro.
There, I don't know, 50-60-some-thing-or-others listened to the realChairman of the Board, dressed to thenines (or at least the eights as HansLampert put it), dined on oysters andfine pastathe regulars, the oft lifetimefriends, La Famiglia. All of it is part ofthe 60 years of sacrifice, survival, andsuccess that is the Savoy.
The din and distraction of the deckdidn't foster my doing interviews. In thedining room, though, patrons werehappy to share their feelings on theSavoy experience and the Merighi family,both dear to them.
Robert Odorizzi, nephew of co-founder
Rose Merighi:I've been here since I was abouteight years old. My dad, Albert (Rose'syoungest brother), was a plumber whohelped them every weekend and Itagged along. I was a kid but I wasworking like an adultthere was nosuch thing as child labor then. OnSunday night, old Ernie would put afive-dollar bill in my hand. Wow.
My aunt and uncle worked 18- to 20-hour days, sometimes going upstairs torest briefly and then coming down
again. They turned aroadhouse into ashowplace.
Enrico Collini, lifetime friend of theMerighis, whose father Enrico workedwith co-founder Ernie in the blow shopat Kimbles before the restaurantopened. He's with his wife, Cathy, whotaught all of Tom Jr.s children at St.Mary's School.
Everybody comes here because it'swarm here, this is family. And TommyTommy tries to keep up with what theyoung people are doing, he touches allthe bases to make sure all generationsare welcome. Hes on top of everythingand he has a great staff, people he canentrust things to. That's the key to hav-ing a good business.
That, and the way he appreciates hisfriends, thats why this place has lastedand will last.
Hans Lampert, related to no one and
not a native, but a gourmet and bonvivant right at home in the MerighiBistro. Also, he's with fiance, LoriDiMatteo-Fiocchi, who as a child often
played at Merighi's while her mother,Alice, worked in the banquet hall.They've driven the three older Merighichildren home from work many times.
Alaina will be the last, when she's oldenough to have a shift:
Tommy keeps the place current andrelevant to the times. He's personallyinvolved in the staging of everything and
each event is as important to him asany other. We come here every Saturdaynight, often Thursday, too. This isCheers where everybody knows yourname. We've never been alone at ourtable for the eveningthere's alwayssomebody coming by, often many.
Lori:Good times, it's good timeshere. What can you say? I love it.
Robert Dragotta, who, like many oth-ers, is not a regular, but comes toMerighi's whenever he can. He lives inBridgeton and Manhattan and joinedHans and Lori for this evening:
I know no matter when I come, it'sgoing to be a good meal; even at cater-ing events, you know it'll be good.Consistent and delicious, thats what it isand I appreciate it.
All the while, Tom is circulating.When have you not seen Tom at anyevent he holds? He always will be rightback, is in the Rose Room, or wantsto talk to you, He is frenetic in move-ment, speech, even smile. You have theimpression he's always thinking andwalking ahead of you but at the sametime he's tuned in, giving your concernshis attention and incorporating yourenjoyment into his own fun. You areSavoy. He is Savoy. Savoy is him.
MB
Star sighting at SavoyBistro (their GPS
thought the AcademyAwards were at Unionand Landis), from left:
Robert Dragotta,Lori DiMatteo-Fiocchi,
and Hans Lampert.PHOTO: MICKEY
BRANDT
8/21/2019 Merighi's Savoy Inn 60th Anniversary
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A BUSY PLACE: SOMEUPCOMING EVENTSAll atMerighi's Savoy Inn, E. Landis Ave.and Union Rd., Vineland, 691-8051.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
Laughing with the Locals Comedy Show.7 p.m. Hosted by Mike KC. Co-headliners:Mike Eagan and Eric Potts. Cash bar and
snack menu. Must be 21 or over. Tickets $20.
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
The Merighi Family Decades Ball.7 p.m. Commemorating the 60th Anniversaryof Merighis Savoy Inn. Dinner, dancing,and cocktails.$100 per person.Proceedsbenefit The Rotary Club of Vineland,
YMCA of Vineland, and Inspira Hospice.
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
6th Annual Hometown Heroes Gala.
6 p.m. Join The Grapevine in celebratingthis years 25 honorees.DJ/Dancing Buffet Dinner Cash Bar SilentAuction 50/50 Raffle.Proceeds go to theRotary Club ofVineland CharitiesFoundation andThe CumberlandCape AtlanticYMCA. Tickets are$70 each, $130 percouple, seating of nine
and 10 per table available. Tickets can bepurchased at The Grapevine officeacross the parking lot from Larrys IIRestaurant & Caf, 907 N. Main Road inVineland or by calling 856-457-7815.
SATURDAY, MARCH 22
Greater Vineland Chamber of
Commerce 41st Annual DandelionDinner and Beer Tasting.A community celebration announcing thebeginning of our agricultural season withan eveniung of dinner and dancing. Musicby Bob Morgan Entertainment. Ticketprice includes craft brew tasting in your
own take-home commemorativepilsner draft. Advertisements
available in program book.Tickets are $50 in
advance and are limitedso reserve early. Call theChamber office at 856-
691-7400 or visitwww.vinelandchamber.com
SUNDAY, MARCH 23
Start a New Tradition Bridal Show.13 p.m. Merighis Savoy Inn presents aRock the Aisle Bridal production. Pre-reg-ister online at www.rocktheaislebridal.com.
SATURDAY, APRIL 5Night of Comedy. 7 p.m. Vineland HighSchool Tennis Team fundraiser, hostedby local favorite Gino Bisconte with Louis"Twitchels" Centanni and starringReverend Bob Levy as the headliner.Adults-only event. You must be 21 orolder to attend. Tickets $25. Cash barand snack menu available. Tickets avail-able from any tennis team member orcoach. Funds raised from this event willbe used for team apparel and to pay fora trip to the U.S. Open.
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MerighisSavoyInn60th|
FEBRUARY
26,
2014
Thank you forproviding
60 years ofoutstanding food
and service to the
South Jerseyarea andcongratulations
from your friendsat Mainieros!
Congratulations to the Congratulations to the
Merighi Familyfor 60 years of
Great food, friendshipand community service
2439 N Delsea Drive, Vineland
8566911164
www.donderojewelry.com
tomatoes on a semolina baguette. Another
is fire-roasted wings, based on a recipe
created by Merighis grandmother, Rose,
co-founder of the tavern 60 years ago. Last
year, some Key West-influenced dishes
debuted and this summers plans include
adding a Mexican flair.
There are large screen TVs, an official
cornhole game and live music every
Friday and Saturday beginning in May.
True to tradition, family membershelped in the design and execution of this
new venture: Merighis mother, Jackie, as
a designer and his sister, Danielle, as a
food consultant.
The patio addition provided 18 new
jobs. It opens for one night in February for
PJs and Parkas, and opens for the season
the third week in April.
Lunas opens for real the third week in
April.
People are really ready for it after thisseason of weather, said Merighi.I
Happy 60th Anniversary toTom and the
Merighi Family!
P.O. Box 1121 Vineland, N.J. 08362
Continued from previous page
PHOTO: AMANDA ERRICKSONDESIGNS
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