Send us a text

In this milestone 180th episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham takes you deep into one of New Jersey’s most fascinating hidden gems: the South Side of Ellis Island. Joined by Jim Dessicino, Director at Save Ellis Island, they explore the forgotten history, powerful stories, and untold legacy of this rarely seen side of one of America's most iconic landmarks.

While most people associate Ellis Island with New York and the famed Immigration Museum, Jim breaks down the reality: over 80% of Ellis Island’s acreage — including the 29 hospital buildings on Island 3 — technically belongs to New Jersey. Together, Mike and Jim tour the contagious disease hospital, end-of-life care wards, and discuss the massive public health effort that shaped the immigrant experience for millions arriving between 1892 and 1954.

👉 Topics Covered in This Episode:

• The Supreme Court ruling that determined New Jersey’s ownership of most of Ellis Island
• The 29 hospital buildings that treated infectious diseases like tuberculosis, measles, and trachoma
• The incredible sacrifices made by nurses, doctors, and staff who lived and worked on the island
• Personal immigrant stories — including Jim’s own Italian-American heritage and how his family name changed after arriving
• The shocking reality that some immigrants saw their first shower or tasted their first banana here
• The challenges Save Ellis Island faces in restoring and preserving this national treasure
• How Ellis Island connects to today’s conversations on immigration, public health, and preserving history

🎨 Special Spotlight: Save Ellis Island’s Art Workshops
Jim also shares exciting new programming bringing world-class artists, like New Jersey-based painter Mario Robinson, to offer workshops on-site — helping people experience Ellis Island in a whole new way.

🚢 Why This Episode Matters
Ellis Island isn’t just a New York landmark — it's a critical part of New Jersey’s history and America’s immigration story. With only 30,000 annual visitors compared to millions on the North Side, the South Side remains one of New Jersey’s best-kept secrets. This episode sheds light on the ongoing mission to preserve its legacy for future generations.

🎧 Perfect for Listeners Who Love:

• New Jersey history
• Hidden gems and untold stories
• Immigration history & genealogy
• Public health history
• Preservation, restoration, and cultural heritage

POWERED BY THE NEW JERSEY LOTTERY!

CHECK OUT MAYOARTS.ORG

🔗 Links & Resources:

• 👉 Save Ellis Island: Learn, Donate, Visit or Volunteer
• 👉 Book a Tour of Ellis Island’s South Side
• 👉 Greetings From The Garden State - All Episodes

Support the show

Send us a text

In this jam-packed episode, Mike sits down with Savvy Seats founder Tommy Gucciardo at Radio Garden State HQ to dive into the chaos, strategy, and heart behind one of the area's most ambitious ticketing and event brands. From running massive tailgate activations outside MetLife to redefining customer service in the secondary ticket market, Tommy keeps it real about what it takes to build a brand that’s about more than just selling seats.

🔑 Key Topics Covered:

• How Savvy Seats got started after Tommy walked away from a successful partnership
• The grind behind running 40+ tailgates a season — and why MetLife wasn’t the long-term answer
• Why American Dream became home base for Savvy Seats' flagship events
• The real difference between Savvy Seats and the big aggregators like StubHub, Vivid, and GameTime
• What it’s like to help other entrepreneurs and creators bring their events to life
• Why transparency, trust, and text messages beat hidden fees and customer support limbo
• How the dynamic pricing game really works — and why it usually backfires if you're playing chicken with ticket prices

💡 Quotes To Remember:

🎟️ Listener Perks:
Use code RGS10 at savvyseats.com to get $10 off every ticket purchase, every time — whether it's Knicks, Yankees, Springsteen, or Stone Pony.

📍 Where to Find More:
All tailgate events, ticket options, and Savvy Seats’ DIY ticketing platform can be found at savvyseats.com. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or just trying to see Taylor Swift without selling your car, this is your go-to.

🎧 Powered by the New Jersey Lottery.
 📻 Keep it locked to Greetings From the Garden State and Radio Garden State – and keep New Jersey loud.

Support the show

Send us a text

This week, host Mike Ham heads to the stunning Park Château Estates & Gardens in East Brunswick to sit down with three legends of New Jersey hospitality — Barry Maurillo, Joe Maurillo, and Vito Cucci. These lifelong friends and business partners are the visionary team behind three of the state’s most celebrated event venues: Nanina’s in the Park, The Park Savoy Estate, and Park Château.

In this warm, wide-ranging, and often hilarious episode, the guys dive into:

• The story behind acquiring and transforming these historic properties
• How their deep friendship and shared Nutley roots shaped a decades-long business partnership
• What it takes to pull off 800+ weddings a year with heart, style, and precision
• Their nonprofit work, including The Cheer Me Up Foundation and Shining Stars, supporting kids, families, and special needs performers
• The legendary Nanina’s sauce story (yes, it’s a college class project gone deliciously right)
• Vito’s unexpected journey into elite horse racing and breeding (spoiler: he’s got winners)
• And the secret to staying happily married while running one of the most demanding businesses around

Whether you're planning a wedding, chasing a dream, or just a sucker for a good Jersey hustle — this one’s got it all.

Links Mentioned:

• Park Château Estates & Gardens
• The Park Savoy Estate
• Nanina’s in the Park
• Cheer Me Up Foundation
• Shining Stars Network
• Nanina’s Sauce

Powered by:
🎟 New Jersey Lottery — Remember, anything can happen in Jersey.

Listen to more episodes at GreetingsFromtheGardenState.com

Support the show

Send us a text

In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, Mike heads to Whippany to sit down with Yael Averbuch West, General Manager and Head of Soccer Operations at NJ/NY Gotham FC. A proud Montclair native and former U.S. Women’s National Team player, Yael shares her journey from Jersey youth soccer fields to global tournaments—and now to the front office of one of the most ambitious clubs in women’s soccer.

They dive into the unique soccer culture of New Jersey, what it takes to build a world-class roster, and how Gotham FC is carving out its own path—separate from the traditional models of women’s teams riding the coattails of men’s clubs. Yael also opens up about the ongoing learning curve of being a GM, the importance of community engagement, and how Gotham FC is growing its reach as both a competitive franchise and cultural movement.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Yael’s upbringing in Montclair and New Jersey’s reputation as a soccer hotbed
• The evolution of her playing career and transition into club leadership
• Building a team with international stars and world-class talent
• How Gotham FC is redefining what it means to be an independent women’s sports brand
• The club’s vision to become a globally recognized name in women’s soccer
• Game day experiences, theme nights, and community initiatives like “Keep Her in the Game”
• Why New Jersey and the NYC metro area offer something for everyone
• How fans, from casual supporters to die-hards, help shape Gotham FC’s future

Resources & Links:
🎟 Tickets, newsletter sign-up, and more: GothamFC.com
📱 Follow Gotham FC on Instagram and Twitter: @GothamFC

Support the show

Send us a text

In this episode, we step behind the curtain at Sushi by Sea, a private omakase dinner experience hidden in plain sight in Ridgefield, NJ. Mike sits down with co-founder Jay Powles to talk about how a global business consultant from South Africa partnered with a master sushi chef to build one of New Jersey’s most exclusive and community-driven dining spots.

Jay shares the journey from underground pop-ups during the pandemic to earning a coveted spot on USA Today's Top 24 Restaurants list. They dive into the restaurant's secretive (but not-so-secret-anymore) location, how Chef Chris commands a 14-seat sushi counter with precision and personality, and why dry-aged fish and direct sourcing from Japanese auctions make Sushi by Sea truly stand out.

More than just a meal, Sushi by Sea is about connection, energy, and community — offering guests a chance to arrive as strangers and leave as friends. Jay and Mike also discuss the power of partnerships, building a brand without traditional marketing, and what’s next for this growing culinary concept.

Highlights Include:

• The origins of Sushi by Sea during the COVID pandemic
• Why you can’t just “make a reservation” — and how to really get in
• Jay’s transition from nightlife and finance to high-end hospitality
• Chef Chris’s global background and mastery at the counter
• The art of dry-aging fish (and why it’s not just for steak)
• Creating community through collaboration — even dessert is a local partnership
• What makes true omakase different — and how Sushi by Sea keeps it real
• Hints at expansion, new concepts, and a request for liquor license leads
• The custom password for Greetings listeners to skip the waitlist

🎟 Exclusive Listener Password: MikeHam — use this when registering at sushibysea.com to bypass the waitlist and book your experience.

Follow Sushi by Sea:
📷 Instagram: @sushibysea
🌐 Website: sushibysea.com

Presented by:
🎭 Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) — visit mayoarts.org for world-class entertainment in Morristown, NJ.

New Jersey Lottery - Anything Can Happen in Jersey!

Support the show

Send us a text

In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, host Mike Ham sits down with Matthew Chappina, chef and founder of Perla Oyster Bar in Maplewood, New Jersey. What began as a mobile oyster truck has evolved into one of New Jersey’s most talked-about new restaurants, known for its raw bar, creative small plates, and vibrant atmosphere.

Matthew shares the story of how Perla grew from backyard oyster parties to a thriving food truck and eventually to a full-service restaurant. He discusses the challenges of launching a business during the pandemic, the creative influences behind the menu, and why hospitality and community are at the heart of Perla’s success.

Key topics covered:

• The revitalization of Maplewood’s dining scene
• How Matthew’s background in theater and creative writing shapes his culinary approach
• The transition from food truck to restaurant
• Lessons in adaptability, creativity, and small business growth
• The importance of hospitality and creating memorable customer experiences
• Future plans for Perla, including outdoor seating and private events

Perla Oyster Bar has quickly become a standout destination in Maplewood for oysters, tapas-style dishes, and a unique, communal dining experience.

For more about Perla Oyster Bar, visit eatperla.com or follow on Instagram at @eatperla.

Support the show

Send us a text

On this episode of Greetings From the Garden State, powered by the New Jersey Lottery, Mike Ham heads to Angry Papa Entertainment in Wallington, NJ to sit down with the powerhouse rock band Reality Suite — Kimmii Heart, Brian King, Joe Padula, and Jeff Luke.

They dive into the band's Jersey roots, their evolution over the past decade, and how their sound has grown through lineup changes and shared influences. From their early days jamming in 2008 to headlining venues and opening for major acts like Nickelback, the Reality Suite journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and relentless creativity.

The band also shares the story behind their name (hint: it involves a Howard Stern episode and a crumpled napkin) and reveals what drives them to keep making music. Plus, they give a sneak peek at their brand new single, "These Fears," dropping the same day this episode airs!

And of course, they're gearing up to bring the loudest set of the night at Jersey Fest on May 17 at White Eagle Hall.

• How Reality Suite formed and found their identity
• Blending classic rock roots with modern influences
• Joining the band and putting a personal stamp on the sound
• Their defining moments of success (pre- and post-pandemic)
• Collaborating on a track for WWE Superstar Liv Morgan
• The importance of evolving without losing authenticity
• New single "These Fears" release announcement
• What fans can expect at Jersey Fest 2024

🎸 "We call our writing a metamorphosis — everyone puts their touch on it and it transforms into something totally Reality Suite-ified." – Kimmii Heart
 🎤 "We all bring our influences, but at the end of the day, we serve the song." – Jeff Luke
 🔥 "When we rock, it sounds authentic. It kicks ass — that's who we are." – Brian King
 🌎 "Our biggest love sometimes came from places halfway around the world — and that's when we realized, this really means something." – Joe Padula

• Kimmii Heart – Lead Vocals
• Brian King – Drums
• Joe Padula – Guitar
• Jeff Luke – Bass Guitar & Background Vocals

🔗 Website
📸 Instagram
📹 YouTube
🔍 Search "Reality Suite" on Facebook and YouTube!

(Reminder: it's "Suite" — like a hotel suite — not "Sweet.")

🎟️ See Reality Suite LIVE at Jersey Fest
🗓️ May 17, 2024 | White Eagle Hall, Jersey City, NJ
🎫 Tickets: radiogardenstate.com/jerseyfest

This episode is powered by the New Jersey Lottery – Anything Can Happen in Jersey!
Also brought to you by the Mayo Performing Arts Center — the heart of arts and entertainment in Morristown, NJ. Visit mayoarts.org for upcoming shows.

Support the show

Send us a text

On this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, I sit down with Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill for an honest, wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from her time in the Navy to her decision to run for governor of New Jersey.

What We Cover:

• Finding Her Way to Jersey
  Mikie shares how she settled in Montclair over 15 years ago, what makes New Jersey feel like home, and why she’s embraced the state’s energy, community, and—yes—its volume.
• A Life of Service
  From her early inspiration to fly to graduating from the Naval Academy as part of the first class of women eligible for combat roles, Mikie reflects on how military service shaped her mindset, her leadership style, and her approach to adversity.
• Career Shifts and the Call to Serve Again
  After nearly a decade in the Navy, Mikie went to law school, worked as a federal prosecutor, and helped launch reentry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals. Eventually, that path led her to politics—and a run for Congress rooted in public service, not partisanship.
• Why She’s Running for Governor
  Mikie talks candidly about her frustrations with Washington, what she’s proud of in her time in Congress, and why she believes real progress—especially for small businesses, infrastructure, and affordability—starts at the state level.
• Keeping It Jersey
  We wrap with a lighter side: hiking Eagle Rock, grabbing subs from Belgiovanni’s (long hots required), and why Star Tavern still hits the spot after a long day.

Whether you’re a policy nerd, a small business owner, or someone just trying to make sense of the moment we’re in, this episode gives you a real look at the person behind the headlines—and what drives her to fight for New Jersey.

mikiesherrill.com

Support the show

Send us a text

We’re back in Atlantic City for one of the most electric events of the year—the Million Dollar Replay at the Golden Nugget, hosted by the New Jersey Lottery. In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of a day full of second chances, big energy, and even bigger prize money.

We kick things off with a breakdown of how Million Dollar Replay works, what’s up for grabs, and how even non-winning tickets can still pay off in a big way. We also talk about some upcoming events and updates from the NJ Lottery, including the Rock Paper Scissors Throwdown at American Dream, the Rockin’ Riches Fast Play game, and changes coming to Mega Millions in 2025.

From there, we hit the floor to talk with players, guests, and lottery representatives. You’ll hear real stories from finalists—some who’ve been entering for years, some attending for the first time, and even one who walked away with the $1 million grand prize. We also touch on the importance of responsible play with help from the Council on Compulsive Gambling, who joined the event to offer resources and support.

Whether it's tales of $5,000 wins off forgotten tickets, lucky numbers drawn from snowblowers, or entire families making a weekend trip out of it, this episode is full of the human moments that make events like this feel so special.

Even if you’re not a lottery player, this one’s worth the listen—it’s about hope, joy, and the thrill of taking a chance.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

• Enter the Million Dollar Replay: njlottery.com
• Problem Gambling Resources: 800gambler.org

Support the show

Send us a text

In this week’s episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham is joined by the full lineup of Hickory, a rising New Jersey folk-rock band that’s quickly carving out a name for themselves across the state and beyond. What started as a few friends trading GarageBand tracks during downtime has grown into a six-piece powerhouse fueled by years of shared history, tight musicianship, and a deep love for original music.

The group dives into how Hickory came together after years of playing in different cover bands, how they balance creative drive with day jobs and families, and the challenges—and rewards—of pushing original music in a cover band-heavy market. With one album already under their belt and a second slated for September, Hickory isn’t just here to play shows—they’re building something bigger.

We cover:

• The band’s origin story and collaborative songwriting process
• Navigating the NJ music scene as an original act
• The shift from playing covers to building a library of original work
• Their growing catalog, including Postcard Picture Show and a new album on the way
• Upcoming gigs at Stanhope House, Cricket Hill Brewery, Hidden Track Records, and more

Stick around after the interview for a special performance. If you love honest songwriting, tight harmonies, and the kind of band that clearly loves playing together, Hickory is one to watch.

🎶 hickoryband.com
📱 Instagram: @hickory_music]

Thank you to the NJ Lottery for supporting the show!

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines

Support the show