Wildwood 365

President's Day Weekend Contest: Win a $50 Spending Spree at Gateway 26

2012-02-18T13:14:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our first annual President's Day Weekend Contest, sponsored by our friends at Boardwalk Bucks!

We'll keep this one plain and simple. The first person to answer the question below (we'll give it to you if you come within three of the exact figure) will win a $50 spending spree at Gateway 26.

An attendant will accompany the winner around the arcade and drop money into any machine they want to play.

Ready? Here we go:

On an average day during the Summer of 2011, what was the total number of individual prizes Gateway had in its inventory?

(The figure accounts for unique items. In other words, if they had 1,000 Angry Birds stuffed dolls, that counts as one prize. 100 WWE action figures would also count as only one, etc.)

HINT #1: The answer is between 2,600 - 26,000

To answer, leave a comment below or on the Wildwood 365 or Boardwalk Bucks Facebook pages.

Please guess only once every 15 minutes so that everyone has a fair shot.

If you have any questions, drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com.

Have FUN!

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A special THANK YOU to Gateway 26 for sponsoring this weekend's contest.

Gateway is open today from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. and will be hosting hourly drawings for up to 5,000 coupons starting at 1 p.m.

There will also be a drawing at 4:30 p.m. for up to $250.00 in Visa gift cards!

Follow Gateway on Facebook and Twitter for more info on this and future events...

Big Band Dance Concert set for March 24th

2012-02-16T13:59:00.000-05:00

Calling all Big Band music and dance lovers!

Tickets are now on sale for the Big Band Dance Concert at the Wildwoods Convention Center on March 24th.

See below or visit www.wildwoodsnj.com for more information...

Are you ready for some futsal?

2012-02-15T17:03:00.000-05:00

The United States Futsal Federation will host the Northeast Futsal Regional Championship on Saturday, February 18 through Monday, February 20 in the Oceanfront Arena at the Wildwoods Convention Center. This three day tournament will take place from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Admission fee is $10 per day or $15 for the weekend.

Now, "What is futsal?" you may be asking...

Futsal is a variant of soccer that is played on a smaller area and mainly played indoors. Futsal is played between two teams each with five players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. Unlimited substitutes per team are permitted. Unlike some other forms of indoor soccer, the game is played on a hard court surface delimited by lines; walls or boards are not used.

Futsal is also played with a smaller ball with less bounce than a regular soccer ball. The rules create an emphasis on improvisation, creativity and technique as well as ball control and passing in small spaces.

For additional information about the Futsal Championship, please call 510-836-USFF or visit www.futsal.com.

25,000 "likes" on Facebook... Thanks to YOU!

2012-02-15T13:44:00.000-05:00

I wasn't going to mention this on the blog, but I've been so overwhelmed today by posts and messages congratulating us on reaching the 25,000 "likes" milestone on Facebook, that I want to say a few quick things...

First, as I've mentioned in the past, it's never been about the numbers. Though I, and the rest of the Wildwood 365 staff, have been thrilled with the growth of the page and our readership over the past two and a half years, the best part has been the personal connections and new friends we've made during the process.

Those "likes" are a reflection of how much we all love the Wildwoods, and what a truly special place it is and always will be.

When I created our Facebook page back in June 2009, I was hoping it would be a nice little accessory to the blog. I didn't really have much in the way of expectation for it. We were "stuck" on 20 or so "fans" for a few weeks; then, after returning from a trip to Disney World, I was shocked to see that we had picked up several hundred followers. And, well, the ball kept rolling from there...

Truth be told, it's a thrill to reach a milestone like this because it means (I think) that a good amount of people not only share your interest but like the work that you do. I'm truly honored and feel privileged to be able to write about WILDWOOD everyday for a living now.

With all of this said, we'd just like to thank ALL of our friends for your support and for bearing with some of our "growing pains" over the years. The blog, quite frankly, has outlived its practicality, so we will be taking things to the next level very, very soon.

We'll have an official announcement on that next Monday (and have many additional surprises planned for 2012).

Something tells us that it's going to be a great year in general, as Wildwood celebrates its centennial, the new Shore Plaza Beach Resort opens in April, Morey's Piers debuts the Giant Wheel's spectacular new lighting package, and so much more to come...

Al Alven

'You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown' at Wildwood Catholic High, Feb. 24 - 26

2012-02-15T11:28:00.000-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

The students of Wildwood Catholic High School will present "You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown" on Fri. Feb. 24 and Sat., Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 26 at 2 p.m.

Based on the comic strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz, this fun and family-friendly musical tells the story of an average day in the life of six-year-old Charlie Brown and his good friends Linus, Sally, Lucy, Schroeder and, of course, his lovable dog Snoopy. This charming production will bring out your inner child while making you laugh over and over.

The high school company includes: Joseph Jett as Charlie Brown, Katie Jett as Lucy Van Pelt, Sarah Visalli as Sally Brown, Chris Kanya as Linus Van Pelt, Trevor Cooper as Schroeder, and Hannah Padrnos as Snoopy.

Show tickets are $10 general admission in advance and $12 at the door.

On Sunday, after the show please join us for our 10th annual Pasta Festival from 3- 7 p.m. Our Pasta Festival will be featuring a buffet-style meal including pasta selections in 6 different sauces, salad and dessert. Adults $12, Children (under 10) $6. A pasta dinner and show combination ticket is available for $20 in advance ($22 at the door).

Contact the school at 609-522-7257 or Carol Herforth at 465-6081 or 408-0612 for tickets and/or information. Tickets are also available at the door. The school is located at 1500 Central Avenue in North Wildwood.

Hope to see you there!

Happy Valentine's Day from Wildwood 365!

2012-02-14T18:07:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

Earlier today on Facebook, we asked our readers to share their stories of love and romance in the Wildwoods. We received some great responses, but the story that accompanies the photo at left really struck a cord with us.

This pic was sent in by Shannon Bittner. The shadows are those of Shannon and Samuel McKibban, cast across a snowy Boardwalk on the approach to 26th Street during the week of Valentine's Day last year.

Less than a minute after snapping this image, Shannon was completely surprised when Samuel got down on one knee and asked her to be his bride.

Later this year, the happy couple will be married in a Wildwood-themed wedding (complete with a Tram Car centerpiece)!

Said Shannon: "I was so shocked. I had no idea it was coming. It was so perfect, and the fact that I got that picture with our shadows just seconds before is amazing. I'll have the memory forever.

"We spend most of every summer in Wildwood together and started dating in high school. Nothing like a snow-covered boardwalk engagement!"

And we couldn't agree more!

Morey’s Piers in the Wildwoods is Set to have a Big Year in 2012 with Over 20 Special Events

2012-02-13T16:37:00.009-05:00

An Overview of Morey’s 2012 Special Events and more

PRESS RELEASE

The Wildwoods, NJ – February 13, 2012 – With spring is just around the corner and summer not too far behind, Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks already have a full agenda of over 20 unique, unusual and exciting events featuring seaside fun and a little something for everyone in 2012...

Easter Sunday, April 8
Morey’s Piers Easter Celebration is sure to delight the kid in all of us with rides, food, entertainment and even an Easter Egg Hunt for the little kids.

Friday, May 4 through Sunday, May 6
Tournament of Bands Weekend in Wildwood - Wildwoods Convention Center and Middle Township High School All-Chapter Championship contest for the Tournament of Bands indoor units from NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA, WV and OH. Morey’s Piers wristbands included.

Mothers Day Sunday, May 13
Celebrate Mother’s Day with the entire family. While there’s always fun for everyone at Morey’s Piers, Mom gets some extra TLC on the Piers this day!

Friday, May 18
Music in the Parks – Schools from all over the tri-state area compete in band and choir while enjoying a day at Morey’s Piers.

Friday, May 18 through Sunday, May 20
The 17th Annual Beach Jam – Spring Beach Bash, The Ultimate Camping Experience for Scouts featuring the brand new Sand Sculpting Contest.

Wednesday, May 30 through Friday, June 1
The 17th Annual Education Extravaganza –Learning becomes a “day at the beach” when students in grades three through twelve enjoy a day of hands-on learning and interactive participation utilizing the beach and Morey’s Piers amusements.

Saturday, June 2
Beach Bop – This is a special day designed exclusively for our youngest scouts. “Beach Bop” follows the same unique model of Beach Jam, with an added splash of fun.

Saturday, June 16
The 12th Annual ALS Express Bike Ride – Morey’s Piers hosts this annual fundraiser to help the fight against Lou Gehrig’s Disease. www.als-express.org

Fathers Day Sunday, June 17
Celebrate Father’s Day with the entire family. While there’s always fun for everyone at Morey’s Piers, Dad gets some extra TLC on the Piers this day!

Friday, June 22 through Sunday, June 24
Cape Express Beach Blast Soccer Tournament – Youth and adult soccer teams from all over the East Coast compete in a barefoot soccer tournament in the sand. www.capeexpress.com

Friday, June 29 through Sunday, July 1
Wildwoods’ AcroBlast – Morey’s Piers sponsors this aerobatic competition which takes place at the Cape May Airport.

Saturday, June 30
Girl Scout Council of Southern New Jersey Fun Day – This is a special day designed exclusively for our local Girl Scout council.

Wednesday, July 4
Annual Curley Fry Eating Contest – Think you’ve got guts? Compete against other amateur eaters to down the most Curley’s fries! Not hungry? Come watch the fries fly at this annual competition.

Saturday, July 7 through Sunday, July 8
Coastin’ By the Ocean – Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks invite coaster enthusiasts to join us for 2 days of splash and ride, ERT’s and events exclusively for Ride Enthusiast Clubs.

Saturday, July 7 through Sunday, July 8
“On Stage” Dance Expo – Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks invite dancers to come dance at the coolest stage on the Jersey Shore!

Friday, July 13 through Sunday, July 15
Beach Lacrosse – Youth Lacrosse teams from all the tri-state area compete on the sand.

Friday, July 13 through Sunday, July 15
Cape Express MORE Beach Blast Soccer Tournament – Youth and adult soccer teams from all over the East Coast compete in a barefoot soccer tournament in the sand. www.capeexpress.com

Thursday, August 2 through Saturday, August 4
A Closer Walk – Christian Youth groups and families are invited to join us for a weekend of camping on the beach, live Christian music and worship services

Saturday, August 18 through Sunday, August 19
Hobie Cat Regatta – Morey’s Piers hosts these annual sailing races.

Sunday, August 19
Rubber Ducky Regatta – Morey’s Piers hosts this annual benefit for the Cape May County United Way. Watch as hundreds of little yellow ducks race at Raging Waters Waterpark for great prizes. Call (609) 729-2002 to sponsor your duck.

Saturday, August 25
The Wild Half Mile – A fun run designed just for kids! Children 12 and under can unleash their wild side in this fun running race on the boardwalk starting at the Convention Center and ending at Mariner’s Landing.

Sunday, August 26
The Wild Half - Half Marathon – The Wildwoods’ and Morey’s Piers host the first ever Wild Half Marathon complete with activities and entertainment for the whole family.

Sunday, August 26
Lighthouse Church Service on the Beach – Morey’s Piers hosts this service on the beach with a beachside breakfast.

Friday, September 21 through Sunday, September 23
The 13th Annual Beach Jam – Fall Fest, The Ultimate Camping Experience for Scouts with a creepy Friday night. Enter the Ghost Ship if you dare, go on a hayride and warm up at the bonfire.

Saturday, September 29
Fall Dance Expo – Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks invites dancers to come dance at the coolest stage on the Jersey Shore!

Sunday, September 30
Souper Sunday Closing Day Celebration & Cook Off – Calling all professional chefs and everyone else who wants to battle for the best Chili or Chowder in the Wildwoods. Join the fun and excitement as talented chefs from throughout the tri-state area compete for the glory of the BEST CLAM CHOWDER & CHILI awards. Enjoy the festive boardwalk atmosphere as contestants use their finest ingredients to prepare winning dishes. The competition features three divisions for Chili, New England Clam Chowder or Manhattan Clam Chowder. Not a cook? No problem! Tasting kits are available so bon appétit!

Fridays and Saturdays, October 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
Morey’s FEARS- Terror on the Boardwalk returns for 2012 with NINE horrific nights of monsters, mischief and madness! Experience MORE Fear on the Pier.

For more information please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call (609) 522-3900.

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About Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers, located on the boardwalk in the Wildwoods, New Jersey is a classic seaside amusement park, family owned and operated since 1969. Voted the second best seaside amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers has over 100 rides and attractions spanning over eighteen acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Convenient to the major population centers of the Northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Visit them at Surfside Pier, featuring the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club at 25th Avenue, Mariner’s Landing Pier, featuring Raging Waters Waterpark at Schellenger Avenue, and Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com or phone (609) 522-3900.

Friday FUN: Solve our Crossword Puzzle to win a $25 gift certificate from Franconi's Pizza

2012-02-10T16:12:00.008-05:00

Photo courtesy of Wildwood Pizza Tour

Update (6:45 p.m.):

WE HAVE A WINNER!

Congrats to Karen DiPietro Pokrywka for being the first to successfully complete our Crossword Puzzle Challenge.

Karen is the winner of a $25 gift certificate to Franconi's Pizza & Italian Restaurant.

* Scroll to the bottom of this post to see the answers

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Welcome to another edition of Friday FUN, brought to you as always by our good friends at Boardwalk Bucks!

In past week's, we've run various Puzzle and Trivia Challenges.

This time around, we're going to go with a tried-and-true (yet still-challenging) format: the good 'ol Crossword Puzzle.

We're giving away a $25 gift certificate courtesy of this week's sponsor, Franconi's Pizza & Italian Restaurant (3318 Boardwalk), to the first person who can complete the puzzle below.

When you think you've got all 15 answers, you can post to our Facebook page or on the Boardwalk Bucks page.

As always, if you have any questions, please drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com.

Good luck and... have FUN!

Here are the answers:

Thanks again to Franconi's Pizza & Italian Restaurant for being our Friday FUN sponsor this week. Visit Franconi's this summer at 3318 Boardwalk (at Oak Avenue)!

Cattle 'n Clover to celebrate Grand Opening with St. Patty's Day block party

2012-02-09T16:33:00.000-05:00

The Wildwoods' newest entry onto the restaurant scene, the Cattle 'n Clover (3817 Pacific Avenue), will celebrate it's Grand Opening on Saturday, March 17th with a big St. Patrick's Day block party.

It will be an all-day event, with festivities running from 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Pacific Ave., between Spencer & Lincoln Aves.

Special events will include Kegs-n-Eggs, from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m., with ALL proceeds benefiting the Lunch With Lynch Foundation.

There is also a plan to attempt to set a Guinness Book of World Records mark by making the world's largest Shepard Pie! There will be a minimum $1 donation to receive a fork and bowl, and again, ALL proceeds with go to Lunch With Lynch.

Live entertainment will be provided all day, with Pentatonix (Sing Off Season 3 champions), Burning Bridget Cleary, Hydeaway, and the Soul Cruisers performing, along with vendors, balloon, artists, and... a Leprechaun?!

Come on out to celebrate the opening of Cattle n' Clover and St. Patty's Day, and to support Lunch With Lynch. It's promises to be a great day and a heck of a party in downtown Wildwood!

This classic can't be licked: Lollipop to debut "new" sign

2012-02-09T13:25:00.002-05:00

If there's a sign or local landmark that screams "WILDWOOD!" louder and more definitively than the famous Lollipop Motel sign at the corner of 23rd & Atlantic, we've never seen it.

Recently, some locals and visitors became alarmed when the sign was removed, and rumors have been circulating about its whereabouts.

So, we went directly to the source, sign guru Randy Hentges, owner of A.B.S. Sign Co., to get the answers. As it turns out, Randy and his team are wrapping up the creation of an EXACT replica of the original sign and will be installing it back in front of the motel soon (possibly as early as next week).

According to Randy, the original boy and girl faces will be used in the recreation!

(Check out photos below, courtesy of A.B.S.)

This is obviously great news, but we also have to say that it's been very encouraging to receive so many e-mails from readers concerned about this truly classic piece of Wildwood history.

We've lost many great signs, motels, and other "Doo Wop" structures over the past decade, but this is one we don't have to worry about.

Still, if you're passionate about preserving the past, present, and future of the Wildwoods, you might want to consider membership in the Doo Wop Preservation League as well as the Wildwood Historical Society.

Also, check out A.B.S. Signs on Facebook to see more pics of the Lollipop sign. And, a big thanks to Randy, members of the DWPL, and the WHS for all of the work you do in preserving our history!

New Gia Ristorante set to open today (2/8)

2012-02-08T11:42:00.007-05:00

Gia Ristorante & Lounge will officially debut in its new location today (3800 Pacific Avenue), with doors opening at 4:30 p.m.

The building (formerly home to Luna Restaurant and Garfield's Restaurant) is much larger than the original Gia, boasts a liquor license, will host live entertainment, and has a parking lot out back.

For more info, visit Gia's website at http://www.giaristorante.net .

For reservations, call 609-729-5959.

From all of us at Wildwood 365, we would like to wish the Chiarella family all of the best tonight and moving forward at your new location!

About Gia Ristorante...

Come to Gia to experience the true taste of Italy as you feast on traditionally prepared dishes amidst a warm Tuscan setting. The menu is a creation of love from chef/owner Vincent Chiarella , whose culinary education began thirty five years ago and his daughter Mia, graduate of the Culinary Institute. Their dishes reflect the "old world" style, utilizing the freshest & most ...authentic ingredients to ensure a most satisfying dining experience.

Gia celebrates its new location at 3800 Pacific Avenue in Wildwood. Offering off street parking, large banquet facilities, indoor and outdoor dining year round, entertainment, and multiple dining rooms and areas for private events.

Gia now offers an exquisite selection of the finest wines from Italy, France and Australia as well as an extensive collection of assorted spirits & beers. Daily Martini Specials compliment your dinner along with wine selections chosen just for you by our experienced sommelier.

YouTube Tuesday: Golden Nugget Farewell Ceremony

2012-02-07T12:18:00.001-05:00

One week ago, we celebrated "Golden Nugget Day," which marked the three-year anniversary of the farewell ceremony held to honor the legendary Hunt's Pier attraction.

To mark the occasion, our friend Martin Melucci - author of the Wildwood Motels - Yesterday, Today, Forever blog - uploaded a four-part video chronicle of the festivities from January 31, 2009.

Relive that very special day, or check out the speeches and set-up for the first time if you weren't able to make it; also be sure to "like" Martin's Wildwood Motels page on Facebook...

Friday FUN: Answer our "Trivia Challenge" to win two FREE 8x10 keepsake photos from Antique Images

2012-02-03T16:56:00.009-05:00

Update (7:15 p.m.): WE HAVE A WINNER!

Congrats to Jennifer Bakeoven-Mueller for correctly answering all five of our trivia questions (answers below).

Thanks to everyone for participating, and be sure to join us again next week for another mystery challenge. (Hint: it involves PIZZA!)

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Welcome to Friday FUN, brought to you as always by our good friends at Boardwalk Bucks!

After last week's Mystery Pic Challenge, we're going to change it up by going back to some Trivia. But, instead of asking just one question as we have previously, we have five questions to challenge our faithful readers.

The first person to correctly answer all five questions on our Facebook page will win gift certificates for two FREE 8x10 keepsake photos from Antique Images at the Boardwalk Mall.

(There is no limit on how many times you can guess. But, be especially careful when answering, because getting one or even four out of the five correct may help others guess all five. We won't indicate whether guesses are right until all five have been properly answered.)

Given that Antique Images is this week's sponsor, we figured we'd go back in time and test your knowledge of the Wildwoods' history:

#1 - Name the predecessor to Hunt's Pier, which existed at the same location from 1904-1943.

Answer: Ocean Pier

#2 - What was the name of the first Wildwoods' first roller coaster?

Answer: The Yankee Dip (at Ocean Pier)

#3 - What was the Boardwalk Mall prior to its conversion in 1977? (Specific name)

Answer: The Reagent Theatre

#4 - The legendary Red Garter in North Wildwood was later known by two different names. Name one of the two. (The structure no longer stands and is now home to Flip Flopz)

Answer: Jimmy's or The Beach House

#5 - Name two movies that were filmed in the Wildwoods (with Wildwood also serving as the primary setting) during the 1980's.

Answers: Touched (1983) & Birdy (1984)

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Well, there ya go. First person to correctly answer all five will be our winner.

Best of luck, everyone... and have FUN!

(Drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com if you have any questions)

And a very special THANK YOU to Antique Images for being this week's Friday FUN sponsor!

City of Wildwood Fire Department Recipient of Substantial Fire Grant

2012-02-02T10:31:00.000-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD – The City of Wildwood Fire Department will receive $351,554 in federal funding from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. This is the department’s third AFG award, receiving previous funding of $76,155 (2003) and $63,809 (2002).

“This is outstanding news for the City of Wildwood whose firefighters tirelessly work to keep the community safe day in and day out,” said U.S. Representative Frank A. LoBiondo (NJ-02), a member of the Congressional Fire Caucus.

“There is no shortage of need for additional resources by our local first responders which is why I will continue to strongly support the AFG program. This federal program has made a critical positive impact for so many of South Jersey’s fire and emergency departments while helping to keep countless residents safe.”

“This grant will ensure our firefighters are adequately prepared to fight fires,” said Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano Jr. “We can always count on Congressman LoBiondo when it comes to the safety of our firefighters.”

Because BLANK IS BORING: House of Print opens for business

2012-02-01T13:51:00.000-05:00

Small aircraft haven't been the only things landing at the Cape May County Airport of late; in fact, new businesses are beginning to take flight in Lower Township.

Next door to the recently-opened Cape May Brewery (the county's first microbrewery), the House of Print has taken up shop at 1288 Hornet Road.

Owner Carl Suit has worked in the graphic design business for 10 years, and holds a degree in communication arts and graphic design from Ramapo College of New Jersey.

His newest venture offers in-house production for t-shirts, stickers, murals, banners, posters and vehicle wraps, and much more.

“We can do pretty much anything you can imagine, and make it look better than you thought possible,” Suit told Shore News Today.

A grand opening gala for the House of Print was held on January 28, hosted by Suit and his wife, Lauren. Beer was provided by the print shop's next door neighbors and the event was catered by Cape May BBQ & Catering Co.

House of Print is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 609-435-5505 or email info@cmchop.com.

Also check them out on Facebook and Twitter.

Happy Golden Nugget Day!

2012-01-31T09:14:00.000-05:00

Golden Nugget, circa 1980 (Courtesy of the Wildwood Historical Society)

Three years ago today, hundreds of diehard Wildwood fanatics turned out in downright ARCTIC conditions to pay their final respects to a defunct amusement.

Of course, this wasn't just any ride. They came from near and far to honor the legendary Golden Nugget Mine Ride, in a wonderful ceremony hosted by the Morey Organization.

No question, it was a bittersweet (and, did we mention bitter COLD?) afternoon. But, it offered much more than the opportunity to say "farewell" to an old friend; despite the circumstances, the event took on more of a tone of celebration than funerary procedure.

On January 31, 2009, generations came together to reminisce and reconnect with a piece of their childhoods. Some in attendance (including my son) were too young to have ever had the chance to experience the Nugget and Hunt's Pier in all of its glory.

But, it was very important for them to be there. Along with their parents. And their grand parents. And in some cases, their great grandparents. And... well, you get the idea.

Above all, the ceremony honored the legacy not just of the Nugget, but of Hunt's Pier. Of the vision of W.C. Hunt, his sons Bud and Guy, and the extended Hunt family; those who blazed the trails in the Wildwoods, and (in some cases, literally) laid the foundation of the Boardwalk as we know it today.

We huddled together inside the hollowed shell of the Nugget, and heard heartfelt speeches from a number of honored guests on that afternoon, including John Allen IV (son of Nugget designer John Allen III of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company).

Mayor Ernie Troiano declared January 31 "Golden Nugget Day" in Wildwood. It's hard to believe that three years have already passed since. But, it's important that we remember, that we keep the spirit of what made the Nugget, Hunt's Pier, and our own personal histories in the Wildwoods so special.

Today, and for the rest of the week, we'd love to hear your own personal recollections of and stories about the Golden Nugget, as well as its neighboring attractions such as The Flyer, Jungleland, and SKUA. Who can forget the Wacky Shack and Keystone Kops?

Please share your thoughts and experiences with us through comment here, on our Facebook pages (Wildwood 365 and Wildwood Memories & Nostalgia) or via e-mail at wildwood365@gmail.com.

HAPPY GOLDEN NUGGET DAY, everyone!

Never forget...

Friday FUN: ID our "Mystery Pics" and win a FREE waverunner rental for two from Lakeview Docks

2012-01-27T18:02:00.004-05:00

Update: We have a WINNER! Congrats to Derek Artim for being the first to successfully identify all three of our mystery pics: Blue Marlin Motel, Dr. Blood's House of Horror, and Wildwood Municipal Building

Derek is the winner of a free waverunner rental for two from Lakeview Docks!

Thanks to everyone for participating this week. Tune in again next Friday for a challenge that will include some... "Antique" fun...

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Welcome to Friday FUN, brought to you as always by our friends at Boardwalk Bucks!

Over the past few weeks, we've featured Puzzle Challenges and a Trivia Question. We're looking to keep things fresh, so this week, we're going to run with a Mystery Pic Challenge.

Below are cropped versions of photos of three Wildwoods landmarks. (* Note, however, that all three may not necessarily still be in existence)

The first person to successfully identify all three on our Facebook page will win a FREE 30-minute waverunner rental for two, courtesy of Lakeview Docks.

Visit Lakeview Docks Waverunners and Boat Rentals online at www.lakeviewdocks.com

Unlike last week, there is no limit on how many times you can guess. But, be especially careful when answering, because getting one or two out of the three correct may help others guess all three.

We won't indicate whether guesses are right until all three have been properly IDed:

Best of luck, everyone... and have FUN!

(Drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com if you have any questions)

And a very special THANK YOU to Lakeview Docks for being this week's Friday FUN sponsor!

New dramedy "Wildwood" coming to FOX?

2012-01-26T16:30:00.001-05:00

Back in October, Deadline: Hollywood TV reporter Nellie Andreeva reported that Fox had purchased the rights to Wildwood, a one-hour show to be produced by Shonda Rhimes and written by Diane Ruggiero (Cupid, The Ex List).

Set in Wildwood in 1985, the "coming-of-age dramedy" centers on a teenage girl who lies about her age to land a job at a popular bar. She faces a variety of challenges over the course of one summer, dealing with her chaotic Irish-Italian family and romance, while leading a secret life at work.

The show is reportedly being produced by ABC Studios and Shondaland, with Rhimes, Ruggerio, and Betsy Beers executive producing.

We haven't heard much about the status of the project since then, but have been in touch with reps from Fox and hope to have an update very soon.

Obviously, this is exciting news for any Wildwood enthusiast. There remain so many unanswered questions, however...

In addition to when the show will debut, just how the town will be portrayed (especially in a 1980s setting), and whether real or ficticious landmarks will be represented are just some of our primary curiosities.

What are some of your thoughts on the concept, and/or some of the questions you have?

We'll do our best to get the answers soon. Stay tuned!

Mor-supial Madness: KANG'A'BOUNCE arrives at Surfside Pier

2012-01-26T12:43:00.000-05:00

While this year's major additions at Morey's Piers are slated to be waterpark attractions (Wipeout at Ocean Oasis & the new River Adventure at Raging Waters), visitors will notice some changes to the 2012 amusement lineup as well.

Yesterday morning, the new Kang'A'Bounce family ride from Zamperla arrived and will soon be installed at Surfside Pier.

According to Zamperla's website:

"Zamperla's newest family and tweener ride, the 'KANG'A'BOUNCE - It's a blast of family fun!', packs a powerful punch of fun as it takes riders on a 'land down under' bouncing adventure. Riders sit side by side in kangaroo themed seats and are treated to a ride full of bounces and surprises.

"Our design team set out to develop a new generation family flat ride building on the popular jumper ride idea which would use time tested technology for a budget and maintenance friendly ride."

Here's the Kang'A'Bounce in action...

Gia set to open at new location on February 8th

2012-01-25T19:17:00.000-05:00

Gia Ristorante will open at its new location (3800 Pacific Avenue) two weeks from today, on February 8th.

The building, currently undergoing a dramatic transformation, is the former home of Luna Restaurant & Club, and Garfield's Restaurant for many years before that.

The now-former location of Gia, meanwhile, will soon become home to the new DeeDee's Cafe (which we hope to have more info on soon).

A special thank you to Mia Chiarella for sharing the accompanying photos.

Best of luck to the Chiarella family on the big move, the upcoming Grand Opening, and the 2012 season ahead!

About Gia Ristorante...

Come to Gia to experience the true taste of Italy as you feast on traditionally prepared dishes amidst a warm Tuscan setting. The menu is a creation of love from chef/owner Vincent Chiarella , whose culinary education began thirty five years ago and his daughter Mia, graduate of the Culinary Institute. Their dishes reflect the "old world" style, utilizing the freshest & most ...authentic ingredients to ensure a most satisfying dining experience.

Gia celebrates its new location at 3800 Pacific Avenue in Wildwood. Offering off street parking, large banquet facilities, indoor and outdoor dining year round, entertainment, and multiple dining rooms and areas for private events.

Gia now offers an exquisite selection of the finest wines from Italy, France and Australia as well as an extensive collection of assorted spirits & beers. Daily Martini Specials compliment your dinner along with wine selections chosen just for you by our experienced sommelier.

Friday FUN: Answer this question to win a $25 gift certificate to Samuel's Pancake House

2012-01-20T16:35:00.003-05:00

Welcome to Friday FUN, sponsored by our friends at Boardwalk Bucks!

In each of the first two editions of this weekly feature we presented Puzzle Challenges. We're going to change things up a bit this week, and ask a simple question.

Well... a "simple" question with a not-so-easy solution...

The first person to get the answer right (and we're talking the exact number here) will win a $25 gift certificate to Samuel's Pancake House in North Wildwood.

So, here it is: How many gallons of syrup did Samuel's go through in 2011?

Now, so that everyone has a fair shot at this, we're not going to give out any hints (at least not until tomorrow, should it come to that). And we ask that you only guess once every 10 minutes, either by leaving a message here or on our Facebook page.

We'll be watching to make sure everyone plays by the rules. ;)

Best of luck, and have FUN!

(And if you have any questions whatsoever, simply drop us a quick line at wildwood365@gmail.com.)

And a very special THANK YOU to Samuel's Pancake House for being this week's Friday FUN sponsor. Visit Samuel's at 17th & Surf Avenues in North Wildwood!

A THANK YOU to our friends - Wildwood 365 turns 3-years-old today!

2012-01-18T14:02:00.000-05:00

It's hard for us to believe, but today marks the third anniversary of the inception of Wildwood 365!

Check out our very first post, from 1/18/09: Welcome to Wildwood 365!

At that point, we had no idea what our humble little blog would develop into. The initial idea was to create something that would allow us (and our close friends) to better keep track of the happenings and events taking place in the Wildwoods, particularly during the "offseason" months.

We are so thankful for all of the support we've received over the past three years, which has allowed us to grow and evolve into a more functionable resource.

We were thrilled and humbled to accept the 2011 Social Media Marketing Award from the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce. ("Seriously, I'm still waiting for someone to pinch me." -- Al)

Wildwood 365 is closing in on 25,000 "likes" on Facebook, which is a milestone we never dreamed we'd reach. But, as I've said in the past, it isn't really about the numbers...

It's about the friends, businesses, and Wildwood enthusiasts, in general, that we've been able to connect with. We sincerely hope you enjoy the blog, and please stay tuned: we have several upgrades and improvements coming in 2012, highlighted by our new website (which we hope to debut in March).

THANKS AGAIN to all of our friends and readers. Here's to the Wildwoods!

-- Al, Angie, Dave, Mike, Sean, Dana, Greg, Bob, & Vince

P.S. - And I would be remiss in not mentioning that today also marks the 8th anniversary of the day my little bundle of joy (and hyper destruction) came into the world. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Lucas! From, Mommy & Daddy. -- Al & Angie

YouTube Tuesday: Plunging for a Great Cause

2012-01-17T14:06:00.000-05:00

The annual New Jersey Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge is always a spectacle to behold (or... be COLD, if you're one of the participants).

According to the SONJ website, over $130,000 was raised at this past Saturday's event, which drew thousands to the beach near the Wildwoods Convention Center.

Here are some of the sights and sounds from the frigid festivities courtesy of YouTube, starting with a video uploaded by our friends at watchthetramcarplease.com...

From ascnikon...

And, finally, from granero13...

Wildwood Historical Society Elects Board Members

2012-01-16T15:29:00.000-05:00

The following press release contains info on the members elected to serve on the Executive Board of the Wildwood Historical Society for 2012, as well as some of the events/programmed planned for this year.

Don't forget, you can also now follow Wildwood Historical Society - George F. Boyer Museum on Facebook. Give 'em a "LIKE!"

PRESS RELEASE

A reorganization meeting for the Wildwood Historical Society was held recently and these members were elected to the Executive Board for the year 2012.

Seated: Larry Lillo, Secretary; Anne Vinci, President; Mary Ellen Shields, Treasurer; John Roat, Vice-President. Standing are trustees: Robert Scully, Scott Jett, Al Brannen, Joyce Jackson, Phyllis Bethel, Vice President, Donna Underwood and Chris Mento. Not pictured is Klaas Kramer.

Annual projects this year include the annual Post Card Show and Open house which will be held in June. Because of the 100th anniversary of the Titanic, artifacts will be on display as well as a collection of photos taken during the 1962 storm that ravaged this area 50 years ago.

The museum anticipates working with the City of Wildwood celebrating the centennial of the City, which was incorporated in 1912. There is also a planned fund raiser involving the sale of pavers for the exterior grounds of the museum.

Monday Memories: September 1972

2012-01-16T12:21:00.000-05:00

Special thanks to Carmen Masciantonio for sharing these two photos of himself and his sister, from a family vacation during the week of September 11-18, 1972...

Remember those swings on the beach in North Wildwood? Can anyone identify the exact block in the background?

And who can forget the kiddie boats at Hunt's Pier, with the little bells in the front and back seats? For so many children, rides like this (perhaps this very one) were initial amusement park experiences.

Check out the cool Hunt's "H" emblem flags on each boat. Have to love that old fashioned attention to detail.

Thanks again to Carmen for the great pics!

If you would like to share your vintage (or even not-so-vintage) family vacation photos as part of our weekly Monday Memories feature, drop us a line anytime at wildwood365@gmail.com or upload your images directly on our Facebook pages (Wildwood 365, Wildwood Memories & Nostalgia, and/or Crazy About Wildwood).

Polar Bear Plunge photos

2012-01-14T16:19:00.000-05:00

We've received our first batch of photos from today's 2012 Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge, courtesy of Eileen Roseann Pop.

If you have pics from today's event and would like to share, drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com or post them directly to our Facebook page.

(Thanks to everyone else who has sent in photos; we'll do our best to get them all up soon!)

Enjoy!

Polar Plunge "afterparty" tonight at the Bolero (featuring Bigg Romeo)

2012-01-14T15:59:00.002-05:00

Special thanks to our friend @EgoPhilly for sending along this great pic of today's Polar Plunge.

Don't forget, the Bolero Resort will be hosting a "Post-Plunge Afterparty" tonight, featuring entertainment by Bigg Romeo from 7-midnight.

Feel the love!

(And if you were in attendance at today's Plunge, we'd love to see your photos, too. Drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com or post directly to our Facebook page.)

Giant Postcards Showing the Wildwoods’ Amusement Piers Featured Internationally

2012-01-14T11:38:00.000-05:00

Kalyn Magee, model-spokesperson for the “Giant Postcard Exhibition”, presents Tony Gorbatow
of Hankins Fudge with a “Giant Postcard” of Hunt’s Pier.

The December 2011 issue of “Amusement Today”, the leading trade publication for the amusement industry worldwide, contains the feature story titled: “Wildwood’s Hankins Fudge remembers shore heritage through ‘Giant Postcard’ series”.

The following is an excerpt from the story:

“Ken and Tony Gorbatow, the identical twins who have owned the sweet spot since 1977, are creating a trip back through time by helping to reinvent an iconic (albeit discontinued) Wildwood brand. They have acquired the first of a limited edition series of vintage three (3) foot by two (2) foot ‘Giant Postcards’ made from ‘Designer Series Postcards’ produced by Douglas Hunsberger and distributed on the island in the 1980’s. The image is now prominently on display as décor within the store.

"Morey’s Surfside Pier at Twilight, 1983”, 25th Street and the Boardwalk,
North Wildwood Copyright © 1983, 2011 (remastered) Douglas Hunsberger

‘We set out to replicate an old-fashioned candy store buying experience within a specific era,’ said Tony Gorbatow. ‘This image represents the Wildwood brand from the 1980’s. A large percentage of our clientele are baby boomers and their children. The postcards feature the scenes they saw here during their first visits to the resort as children or teenagers.

'Some may have sent the very same image to a friend when it was actually on a postcard.’

‘Giant Postcards are fun and educational for all ages,’ said Ken Gorbatow. ‘The older generation feels like they’ve stepped back in time, and the young ones have a chance to understand something of their parent’s history.’

"Hunt's Pier with Tramcar, 1984."
Copyright © 1984, 2012 Douglas Hunsberger

While the concept of making enlargements from scans of printed postcards is hardly new, the dot pattern used to create the printed card quickly degrades the image relative to the increase in size. “Giant Postcards” are made from digitally remastered drum scans of the original materials (photographic transparencies) used to make the cards. This is the first time postcards have been reinvented in this fashion in the United States. The resulting digital files are outputted as giclee (pronounced: “jhee – clay”) prints made with archival pigment based inks.”

Other businesses in and around the Wildwoods have also acquired Giant Postcards to use as artwork. Giant Postcards are an unforgettable addition to décor packages for motel lobbies, restaurants and retail establishments. They are also unique conversation pieces and attractive décor for inside the home.

For additional information, log on to facebook.com/giantpostcards and/or email: giantpostcards@rocketmail.com.

All Breed Dog Show Returns to the Wildwoods Convention Center, Feb. 1-5

2012-01-14T10:18:00.001-05:00

Once again, Wildwood's goin' to the dogs...

PRESS RELEASE

Attention all dog lovers!

Four-legged friends of all shapes and sizes will return to the Wildwoods Convention Center for the annual All Breed Dog Show hosted by the Boardwalk Kennel Club for five days in February. Competitions begin at 8 a.m. daily starting Wed., Feb. 1 through Sun., Feb. 5. Multiple judges will determine the winner of each category, and various prizes will be awarded. The schedule of competition is as follows:

Wed., Feb. 1 -

Union County Kennel Club will host their All Breed Dog Show and a Meet the Breed Showcase. The Meet the Breed exhibit is a great way to talk to the exhibitors and handle the dog

Thu., Feb. 2 -

Sand and Sea Kennel Club will host their All Breed Dog Show, Obedience and Rally Dog Show. The rally event is a must see – where dogs go through various obstacle courses

Fri., Feb. 3 -

All Breed Dog Show; Obedience and Rally Dog Show; Best Veteran in Competition; Canine Good Citizen Clinic; and All Breed Puppy Match Show

Sat., Feb. 4 -

The Boardwalk Kennel Club will host their All Breed Dog Show; Best Puppy in Show Competition; Canine Good Citizen Clinic; and Police K-9 Demonstration and Awards Ceremony. In celebration of the Boardwalk Kennel Club’s 50th anniversary, there is a first-ever Groomer on the Boardwalk Competition. The competition is open to all groomers and prizes will be awarded to Best Groomer in Show.

Sun., Feb. 5 -

All Breed Dog Show and Best Amateur-Owner Handler in Show Competition.

Additionally, vendors will offer unique merchandise for those looking for something special to pamper their pooch – from collars and leashes to books and training tools, along with everything in between. Guided tours and new exhibitor briefings will be available throughout the 5-day event to educate the public about all aspects of the sport of dog shows.

Ticket prices are $7 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and $2 for children under 12. Tickets will be available at the door the day of the event.

For additional information about the Boardwalk Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show, please call 856-456-2548 or visit www.BoardwalkKennelClub.com.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Friday FUN: Take our Puzzle Challenge for a chance to win some "sweet" treats from Hankins Fudge

2012-01-13T13:13:00.003-05:00

UPDATE: Thank you to everyone who participated in this week's challenge. We have our seven winners, only three hours after posting the puzzle. You guys are good. We'll have to come up with something even more challenging next week.

Here are the answers to this week's puzzle:

H - Aqua Beach Resort
A - Attache Resort
N - Yankee Clipper Motel
K - King's Inn
I - Imperial 500
N - Royal Hawaiian
S - Biscayne Motel

**************

Last week, we presented the first installment of a new weekly feature here at Wildwood 365.

In case you missed it, this year we're partnering with our friends at Boardwalk Bucks to present a contest every Friday, with chances for our readers to win some great Wildwood prizes.

Ready for PUZZLE CHALLENGE #2? Here's how it works...

Take a close look at the image above (click to enlarge) and try to guess the Wildwoods landmark signs that each of the letters comes from.

When you are ready to answer, leave a comment on either of our respective Facebook pages - Wildwood 365 and/or Boardwalk Bucks.

Now, here's the very important part...

This week, we're not giving away one prize - we'll be awarding gift certificates for ONE POUND of Hankins Fudge to seven individuals, the first who get any one of the letters right. So, it's crucial that when leaving your answers, you only guess one letter at a time.

Each person is only eligible to win ONE gift certificate. If all of the letters have not been guessed by tomorrow morning, we will begin dropping some hints on our Facebook pages, so be sure to pay close attention if you think you're close.

Best of luck, and have FUN!

(And if you have any questions whatsoever, simply drop us a quick line at wildwood365@gmail.com.)

And a very special THANK YOU to Hankins Fudge for being this week's Friday FUN sponsor. Visit Hankins at 3012 Pacific Avenue in downtown Wildwood!

Wildwood Catholic High School Launches Second Annual Appeal

2012-01-13T08:39:00.002-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

Wildwood Catholic High School’s (WCHS) second Annual Appeal to parents, alumni and the community will launch at the end of January. The Appeal supports the school’s efforts to build on the Advances in Education they have already put into place.

This campaign is also specifically dedicated to providing financial assistance and academic scholarships to the best and brightest students who want to attend Wildwood Catholic while still maintaining the lowest annual tuition of any catholic school in the state (under $7,000).

“The 2012 Annual Appeal will be the second anniversary of our efforts to keep the WCHS tradition alive through community support. We are thankful to everyone who participated in our first Annual Appeal,” said Kevin Quinn, Director of Development at Wildwood Catholic High School. “Our growth over the last two years has been astounding and with continued support through this year’s Annual Appeal, we look forward to continuing to make available an enhanced education to every student who walks through the door,” he said.

WCHS will kick off its second Annual Appeal outreach via mailings, email and social networking by the end of January.

“As a private institution, Wildwood Catholic High School is dependent upon the generosity of many benefactors, who annually underwrite the operation of this school through their financial support,” said WCHS’s Academic Dean Tony Degatano. “Tuition alone covers merely 70% of the total cost to educate each child. This appeal to alumni, parents, friends, businesses and foundations is essential and necessary so that WCHS is able to add more technological advancements, elective courses and first hand experiences for our students. Thanks to our donors' generosity, Wildwood Catholic continues to offer an exceptional education - academically, socially and spiritually.”

During the first Annual Appeal, donations came pouring in to this four-year, co-educational secondary school of the Diocese of Camden and Notre Dame de la Mer parish offering a values-centered education in the Catholic tradition. Two donations in particular – a generous donation from a local philanthropist and another five-digit gift from the Holly Beach Library Association – provided the WCHS staff the opportunity to expand its curriculum and academic experiences.

2011-2012 Curriculum Enhancements:

• Addition of a Boys Lacrosse Team

• Initiation of an International Student program, which enrolls students from other countries. The initiative enhances enrollment, but more importantly, allows students to learn about different cultures and countries from their fellow students; while the foreign students learn about theirs;

• Addition of a Research Seminar, where students meet with media and library specialists to learn about the online educational resources available to them and how to access them;

• Addition of a Law Seminar for Junior students, which educates them on the various aspects of the law directly by area attorneys. Courthouse visits allow the students to witness first-hand hearings and meet the judge.

Pending additions to the Wildwood Catholic curriculum include Medical and Writing Seminars, a Senior Success seminar and additional electives (thanks to a grant from the International Academy of Science). The school has also partnered with Seton Hall University and Kean University to offer their faculty professional development and their students higher-level educational opportunities.

More academic additions are on the horizon, and the 2012 Annual Appeal is a significant part of the rebuilding that has just begun at Wildwood Catholic.

For more information about the Annual Appeal, to make a donation or to find out more about Wildwood Catholic High School, visit www.wildwoodcatholic.org or call 609-522-7257.

Wildwood Business Improvement District Names John Donio President 2012

2012-01-10T21:39:00.001-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

John Donio, President of Tailfin Properties, Owner of The Daytona Inn and Suites of Wildwood, and Managing Partner of Tilton Holdings, is the new president of The Wildwood Business Improvement District (WBID).

“The Wildwood Business Improvement District has made tremendous strides in the past year and I’m looking forward to working with all of the talented people on this board to continue the positive momentum” said Donio.

Donio serves on the Town of Hammonton Parks Commission and Lake Water Quality Committees. He is a member of the Greater Wildwoods Chamber of Commerce and has served on the Board of Directors of the Greater Wildwoods Hotel and Motel Association and the Wildwoods’ Doo Wop Preservation League Board of Trustees. He is a graduate of The College of New Jersey.

Donio’s charitable activities include: collecting donations for the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, sponsoring the annual Nun’s Beach Surf Classic in Stone Harbor, NJ (benefiting the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary) as well as being honored by the Wounded Healer Crisis Center in Pitman, New Jersey for his annual work in giving underprivileged children and their families a place to vacation in the summer (Project K.I.D.S.).

Before starting his own real estate management and hospitality company, Donio spent most of his summers as a teenager working as a lifeguard in and around Wildwood.

Donio spends most of his free time raising his son Frankie and coaching for the Hammonton Youth Soccer Association and St. Joseph’s Regional Elementary School Soccer program as well as acting as lead vocals for a local South Jersey cover band called Furious George.

For more information about the Wildwoods Business Improvement District please visit www.dowildwood.com or call 609-523-1602.

Wildwoods campaign wins marketing award

2012-01-10T18:13:00.001-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP – Suasion Communications Group’s 2009-2011 public relations campaign for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA) has earned a Silver Adrian Award in the annual marketing competition’s Consumer Marketing Public Relations category.

Suasion Communications Group of Egg Harbor Township serves as GWTIDA’s public relations agency. The firm created the award-winning public relations campaign, which was selected from more than 1,000 international entries judged by senior industry and media experts. According to Suasion staff, the campaign publicizing the Wildwoods “as a value-filled, affordable, family-friendly vacation destination.”

The Adrian Awards are presented annually by the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) to honor achievements in advertising, public relations and website marketing in the travel industry. Founded in 1957, the Adrian Awards include all segments of the hospitality industry, including hotels, airlines, cruise lines, car rental companies, destinations and more, according to a statement from Suasion.

According to Suasion, their 2009-2011 public relations campaign for the Wildwoods, along with the Wildwoods’ advertising and marketing campaign, has meant more than 1,400 stories in local and national broadcast, print and web publications, in addition to 100,000 requests for vacation information packets from prospective vacationers, and over 4.5 million website visitors to the Wildwoods website.

“The Wildwoods brand continues to grow and remain top-of-mind for vacationers through our highly successful public relations and marketing campaigns,” said John Siciliano, GWTIDA executive director.

This is one of many awards that the Suasion Communications/GWTIDA partnership has garnered for its public relations efforts. The Wildwoods’ 2008 public relations campaign and 2010 public relations campaign for the Wildwoods’ Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall earned 2009 & 2011 New Jersey Governor’s Awards for Tourism Excellence from the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism, in addition to the partnership earning a Bronze Adrian Award for its 2009 public relations campaign promoting the Wildwoods’ marketing campaign.

“Being selected from over 1,000 national and international entries for this year’s Adrian Awards is a major accomplishment for Suasion, and we plan on continuing our award-winning work throughout 2012,” said Susan Adelizzi-Schmidt, President of Suasion Communications Group.

The 2012 Adrian Awards Gala will be held on Feb. 27, at the Marriot Marquis in New York City.

For more information see www.suasionmarketing.com or www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Reader Photo of the Day: 1/9/12

2012-01-09T11:25:00.000-05:00

Today's photo comes to us courtesy of Pam Ann Photography, which is based in Stockholm, NJ.

This image and artistry brings to life the vibrancy of the Pink Cadillac Diner's signage at the corner of Atlantic and Garfield in midtown Wildwood. Click for a larger view!

Check out Pam Ann on Facebook and Twitter.

*********************

If you would like to submit a photo for our daily feature, simply upload it to our Facebook page or drop us a line with an attachment at wildwood365@gmail.com.

The more info on the image, the better. Photos can be current, pics from your vacation last summer, or vintage shots of your grandparents at the beach in 1952. So long as they're part of your Wildwood story, we'd love to see them!

Reader Photo of the Day: 1/6/12

2012-01-06T17:02:00.002-05:00

Sometimes, you just have to marvel at the natural beauty of our island and its surrounding areas. What better place to "take it all in" than up at Hereford Inlet, where our friend Ann Delaney (Blog / Twitter) snapped this glorious scene at sunset.

As a bonus, here's the other side of the sunset sky - the back bay entering Stone Harbor...

*********************

Friday FUN: Take our Puzzle Challenge for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to the Vegas Diner

2012-01-06T11:42:00.022-05:00

THANK YOU to everyone who participated in our Puzzle Challenge today. We have a WINNER - Chris Corr was the first to identify all of the signs correctly and will be the recipient of a $50 gift certificate to the Vegas Diner!

Here are the answers (and be sure to look out for our next challenge in one week):

B - Bel Air Motel
O - Wildwood Sign @ Rio Grande ave
A - Sea Shell Motel
R - Condor Motel
D - Doo Wop Diner
W - Boardwalk Mall Sign
A - Mack's Pizza
L - Florentine Motel
K - Ala Kai Motel

_________________________________________________

This year, we're partnering with our friends at Boardwalk Bucks to present weekly contests for our readers, with chances to win some great Wildwood prizes.

We're kicking things off today with the return of our PUZZLE CHALLENGE!

Here's how it works...

Take a close look at the image above (click to enlarge) and try to guess the Wildwoods landmark signs that each of the letters comes from. Some are definitely more tricky than others.

When you are ready to answer, leave a comment on either of our respective Facebook pages - Wildwood 365 and/or Boardwalk Bucks.

The first person to successfully identify ALL 9 signs in order will win a $50 gift certificate to the Vegas Diner!

If there is no winner by tomorrow morning, we will begin dropping some hints on our Facebook pages, so be sure to pay close attention if you think you're close.

Best of luck, and have FUN!

(And if you have any questions whatsoever, simply drop us a quick line at wildwood365@gmail.com.)

Last call for Morey's Holiday Sale

2012-01-06T10:03:00.003-05:00

There are, literally, just hours left to partake in Morey's Piers' annual Holiday Sale, which officially ends tonight at midnight.

Take advantage of the best prices of the year - Save up to 45 percent on Season Passes, Waterpark Admissions, MOR-EZ ticket cards and more.

NEW for 2012, Morey's is turning the Lazy River at Raging Waters into a River Adventure. Float for hours among geysers and waterfalls, discover serenity in the grotto and enjoy Raging Waters in an adventurous new way.

At Ocean Oasis, race friends and family to a wet and wild finish on the new six-lane Wipeout! racer slide!

> PURCHASE HERE <

Morey's Holiday Sale - 4 days left to shake things up!

2012-01-02T19:44:00.001-05:00

Morey's Piers & Beachfront Waterparks' annual Holiday Sale ends at midnight this Friday, January 6th.

That leaves only four days to take advantage of the best prices of the year. Save up to 45 percent on Season Passes, Waterpark Admissions, MOR-EZ ticket cards and more.

NEW for 2012, Morey's is turning the Lazy River at Raging Waters into a River Adventure. Float for hours among geysers and waterfalls, discover serenity in the grotto and enjoy Raging Waters in an adventurous new way.

At Ocean Oasis, race friends and family to a wet and wild finish on the new six-lane Wipeout! racer slide!

> PURCHASE HERE <

Wildwoods Named Among TripAdvisor’s Destinations on the Rise

2011-12-31T18:55:00.001-05:00

Great news to end 2011 on, as we look ahead to another great year in the Wildwoods...

PRESS RELEASE

The Wildwoods have received their first major honor of 2012 as they were named one of TripAdvisor’s® “15 Destinations on the Rise.”

According TripAdvisor’s® website, the seaside destination was included on the list because “The Wildwoods and its beach and boardwalk are where city denizens from Philadelphia and New York have escaped to for decades. Soak it all in... the '50s-style theme motels, the fried food palaces, the Doo Wop tours that recall the many rock 'n' roll stars who performed here.”

TripAdvisor® goes on to say that the Wildwoods are “a trip back in time to a more optimistic age.”

Click here to view Trip Advisor’s complete 15 Destinations on the Rise story.

“It’s a tremendous honor to once again be recognized by TripAdvisor® and be among their 15 Destinations on the Rise,” said John Siciliano, Executive Director for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA). “This accolade, along with all of the other recognition we’ve received from renowned publications and websites over the past years, is a huge credit to all of our visitors, as well as each and every person that works tirelessly to continue making the Wildwoods one of the country’s most popular vacation destinations.”

The Wildwoods have also been recognized as one of TripAdvisor’s® top three “Travelers’ Choice Family Award-Winning U.S. Amusement Park Destinations” and one of National Geographic Traveler’s “Top 10 U.S. Boardwalks” in 2011; Smarter Travel’s “Best Beach Town In America For a Classic Experience” in 2010; and one of Forbes Traveler's "Top Ten American Boardwalks" in 2009.

The Wildwoods are also home to “New Jersey’s Best Beaches” as awarded by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium in 2011 and 2010, as well as over 180 festivals and events throughout the year, plus the country’s largest concentration of mid-century “Doo-Wop” architecture TripAdvisor® is the one of the world's largest travel websites, enabling travelers to plan and have the perfect trip by offering trusted advice from real travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools. TripAdvisor® Media Group, operated by TripAdvisor LLC, attracts more than 50 million unique monthly visitors across 18 popular travel brands operating in 27 countries worldwide with 20 million members and over 45 million reviews and opinions.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from Wildwood 365!

2011-12-25T08:52:00.000-05:00

From our family to yours, we would like to wish all of our friends and supporters a very happy, healthy, and MERRY CHRISTMAS and best wishes for a fun and fantastic 2012!

(Photo above edited by the newest member of our staff - the talented Greg DiBruno)

-- Al, Dave, Angie, Mike, Chris, Dana, & Greg

New Bikes for Wildwoods Youth

2011-12-21T14:14:00.000-05:00

This is such a heartwarming tale, courtesy of one of our heroes, John Lynch, and the generosity of the island's brave and caring firefighters.

It's amazing what can be accomplished when a community pulls together, especially to help those less fortunate. Just imagine the smiles on the faces of so many of the Wildwoods' children on Christmas morning when you read below.

And please support the Lunch With Lynch Foundation and the Lynch Who Stole Christmas... from the Grinch program. Toy and gift deadline is tomorrow - Thursday, December 22nd!

PRESS RELEASE

More than 35 dreams will come true for Wildwoods youth this holiday season, thanks to the "Lynch who Stole Christmas from the Grinch" Program.

The program, which annually delivers more than 300 Christmas gifts to at-risk children throughout the 5-mile island area each year, will continue its tradition in 2011 by delivering via local fire trucks, dozens of new bicycles to children located all over the island.

Jack Holland, past fire Chief of the Wildwood Crest Volunteer Fire Department (aka Buddy the Elf) challenged every Volunteer Fire Company on the Island to buy new bikes for the "Lynch Who Stole Christmas … from the Grynch" 2011 Christmas Drive.

In less than 5 hours, every Fire Department, along with the paid Fire Fighters of Wildwood FMBA 50, jumped on board to purchase bikes for the area’s most needy children,

The fleets fire trucks will meet on Tues., Dec. 20, at noon in front of the Wildwood Convention Center; and then travel via caravan to the local Wal-Mart store in Rio Grande, NJ to purchase 35 new bikes, which will be delivered this holiday season along with more then 300 other donated gifts, to at-risk children throughout the island.

For additional information, please contact John Lynch at 609-849-8887.

Over halfway through Morey's Cheers "12 Days of Christmas" giveaway

2011-12-20T13:32:00.002-05:00

It's the 5th Day of Christmas (just like the song)... and there's still time to participate in Morey's Cheers "12 Days of Christmas" giveaway promotion!

Just fill out the entry form on this page each day to be entered to win a prize, up until Christmas morning. Winners will be announced daily and prizes will be mailed out the week of January 2nd.

Four great prizes remain, including gift certificates to Joe's Fish Co., waterpark family four-packs, amusement pier family four-packs, and the big one - a 2012 Season Pass!

Already, Morey's has given away:

* 12 Limited edition 2011 ornaments
* 11 Buckets of Curley's Fries
* 10 Morey's Piers t-shirts
* 9 Morey's Piers towels
* 8 Signed copies of A Wild Ride
* 7 Morey's Piers sweatshirt blankets
* 6 Gift certificates to Ocean Oasis
* 5 Gift certificates to Jumbo's

Also, don't forget to take advantage of all of the HUGE savings on season passes, gift cards, and a whole lot more with Morey's Annual Holiday Sale!

Happy Hanukkah from Wildwood 365!

2011-12-20T11:26:00.000-05:00

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all who celebrate a very Happy Hanukkah, from your friends here at Wildwood 365!

The Jewish Festival of Lights begins tonight and ends December 28th.

(Photo above courtesy of www.iloveshelling.com)

"Mack" splits from "Manco" in Ocean City

2011-12-19T11:03:00.000-05:00

Yet further proof that nothing stays the same forever...

Over the weekend, the Press of Atlantic City broke the news that the famed Mack 'n Manco's pizza shops in Ocean City will officially become "Manco & Manco Pizza," effective January 1st.

The change is being reflected on the institution's official website (which remains under construction), and workers answering the phone at the 9th & Boardwalk location are already using the new name.

The reason for the split from the Mack family remains unclear, but is a matter of much local curiosity. It has been explained as a private matter.

"It's just two separate entities that decided among themselves that one would take back their name and we would all go our separate ways," Manco & Manco co-owner Chuck Bangle told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "There's nothing else to say about it."

The name change will affect all three of the locations on the Ocean City Boardwalk. No change will be made to the two Mack's Pizza restaurants in Wildwood.

Mack's Pizza has been an institution in Wildwood since 1953, when Anthony Mack, his wife Lena, and three sons, Joseph, Vincent, and Duke, opened their original (and still operating!) location on the Boardwalk at Wildwood Avenue.

"Tony" and Lena had previously operated a restaurant in Trenton, where Mack's Tomato Pie was born. They would go on to open three additional locations on the Wildwood Boardwalk. Today, one other remains in operation, at Roberts Avenue.

(For the most complete history of Mack's Pizza in Wildwood, check out this fascinating retrospective written by Ralph Grassi at Funchase.com. Ralph, the true afficianato of all things "Mack's," has an entire section devoted to the iconic pizzerias, with tons of photos, video, and more!)

Mack & Manco's was born on the Ocean City Boardwalk three years later, in 1956, when Tony and his cousin, Vincent Manco, went into businesses together.

More than a half-century later (55 years, to be exact), the Mack's name is being removed from the Ocean City locations. While we have no doubt that the traditions of integrity and quality at both the Wildwood and Ocean City shops will remain the same for years to come, it is still a somewhat bittersweet occurance for longtime fans of these true Jersey Shore institutions.

For more, check out our friends at the Wildwood Pizza Tour and their take on the news.

Toy drive tonight at Westy's, featuring StellarMojo

2011-12-17T14:28:00.001-05:00

Tonight at 9 p.m., Westy's Irish Pub (101 E. Walnut Ave.) will be hosting a toy drive featuring live entertainment by StellarMojo.

From StellarMojo's Facebook page:

Happy Holidays!!! Tonight, Westy's IrishPub and Stellar Mojo are hosting a Holiday Toy Drive at Westy's in which every gift will be donated to the children of families with less than NOTHING. Every toy will be specially given to each child from "Santa" and will surely bring a wonderful smile!! The act of giving is a gift in itself...

We couldn't agree more!

Of particular need are gifts for children 11 years and older. Please bring new and unwrapped toys so that each present can be customized to specific children and families.

Boardwalk Basketball Classic Tournament Returns

2011-12-16T14:33:00.000-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

The 14th annual Boardwalk Basketball Classic will return to the Oceanfront Arena at the Wildwoods Convention Center Mon., Dec. 26 through Mon., Jan. 2, featuring an impressive lineup of high school boys and girls basketball teams from the South Jersey and Delaware Valley areas.

Included in this year’s annual holiday basketball tournament will be an additional day of competition, titled Battle at the Boards, which will feature six games that include each of the boys and girls high school basketball teams from Cape May County.

The Boardwalk Basketball Tournament was founded in 1998 and continues to be the largest single-venue coed high school holiday basketball tournament in the United States.

The tournament has raised nearly $300,000 in college scholarship money for graduating seniors at Wildwood and Wildwood Catholic high schools, the two host schools of the event, since its inception. The tournament is run by an all-volunteer board that solicits sponsorships, ticket sales, and other support.

For the first time, the Boardwalk Basketball Classic will expand to a seventh day on Mon., Jan. 2, 2012. The Classic will stage a Battle at the Boards showcase event featuring all of the boys and girls basketball teams from Cape May County’s high schools including Wildwood, Wildwood Catholic, Ocean City, Cape May Tech, Middle Township, and Lower Cape May Regional. The Battle at the Boards is made possible thanks to additional sponsorship courtesy of Crest Savings Bank.

The Boardwalk Basketball Classic is sponsored by Crest Savings Bank, the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority, the City of Wildwood, the City of North Wildwood, the Borough of Wildwood Crest, the J. Byrne Agency, Wawa, and by 98.7 The Coast WCZT.

All games begin at 9 a.m. daily with select games being broadcast live on 98.7 The Coast radio.
The Boardwalk Basketball Classic Tournament is still seeking boys and girls teams to complete this year’s event lineup. Interested teams can contact Brian Cunniff via email at boardwalkbballclassic@yahoo.com.

For further information about the tournament, including the complete schedule, past results, tournament records and ticket information, log on to www.bbclassic.net.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

Joey Contino sings "White Christmas"

2011-12-16T07:58:00.001-05:00

You may recognize Joey Contino from the Guest Services booth at Mariner's Landing (under the Sea Serpent), where he works as a supervisor. I've had the pleasure of getting to know Joey over the past year; never once have I seen him without a smile on his face, while displaying the incredibly helpful and pleasant demeanor that makes him such a true credit to the Morey Organization.

What I didn't know about Joey, until recently... is that he can sing!

Shouldn't come as any surprise, given his apparent talent. I really enjoyed his recently-recorded version of "White Christmas," and I hope you do too. This really helped me continue to get into the holiday spirit.

Please leave Joey a comment on his YouTube page and check out his other videos as well.

Great job, my friend!

Countdown to Christmas with Morey’s Piers - Giveaways Everyday through Christmas Day

2011-12-15T15:38:00.002-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

From ornaments to Curley’s Fries, tickets and one BIG surprise, Morey’s Piers is turning summer fun into Christmas cheer during its 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway taking place through Christmas Day.

During the giveaway, Morey’s Piers will offer its loyal guests the chance to win a daily prize every day during the 12 Days of Christmas including: twelve Christmas Balls, eleven Curly’s Fries, ten T-shirts, nine Towels, eight Signed Books, seven Sweatshirt Blankets, six Oasis Café $25 Gift Certificates, five Jumbo’s $25 Gift Certificates, four Joe’s Fish $25 Gift Certificates, three Waterpark Family 4 Packs, two Amusement Pier Family 4 Packs and one 2012 Season Pass.

To enter, visit www.facebook.com/moreyspiers daily to fill out an entry form to be entered to win that day’s prize.

For more information about events at Morey’s Piers, please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call 609-522-3900.

###

About Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers, located on the boardwalk in the Wildwoods, New Jersey is a classic seaside amusement park, family owned and operated since 1969. Voted the third best seaside amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers has over 100 rides and attractions spanning over eighteen acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Convenient to the major population centers of the Northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Visit them at Surfside Pier, featuring the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club at 25th Avenue, Mariner’s Landing Pier, featuring Raging Waters Waterpark at Schellenger Avenue, and Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com or phone (609) 522-3900.

Morey's Cheers 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway details...

2011-12-12T13:43:00.000-05:00

Over the next twelve days (yes, there really are only twelve days left until the big day... scary, isn't it?), Morey's Piers will be giving away a variety of prizes, from ornaments to Curley's Fries to waterpark passes.

(And, rumor has it, one "BIG" surprise.)

To participate, fill out the entry form on this page each day to be entered to win a prize, from tomorrow (Dec. 13) until Christmas morning.

Winners will be announced daily and prizes will be mailed out the week of January 2nd.

Also, don't forget to take advantage of all of the HUGE savings on season passes, gift cards, and a whole lot more with Morey's Annual Holiday Sale!

Reader Photo of the Day: 12/9/11

2011-12-09T17:30:00.000-05:00

This photo literally took our breath away.

Frankie Gallagher snapped this scene moments before the official sunrise in Anglesea one morning in September. As those who have witnessed a pre-dawn festival of pinks and purples such as this, the sky changes color so quickly as the sun gets closer to rising over the ocean's horizon.

Fortunately, Frankie acted quickly and captured an image we can all savor forever!

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Previous Reader Photos of the Day:

December 7 (Heather McCallion)
December 8 (Greg Hnath)

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If you would like to submit a photo for our daily feature, simply upload it to our Facebook page or drop us a line with an attachment at wildwood365@gmail.com. The more info on the image, the better.

Photos can be current, pics from your vacation last summer, or vintage shots of your grandparents at the beach in 1952. So long as they're part of your Wildwood story, we'd love to see them!

American Red Cross blood drive on Monday

2011-12-09T11:10:00.001-05:00

There are some gifts that money simply can't buy.

This Monday, December 12, the American Red Cross will be holding a blood drive at the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce (3306 Pacific Ave.) from 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Please consider donating. Just one hour of your time could save up to three lives. To set up an appointment, contact Anne Bourke at 609-729-4000.

Reader Photo of the Day: 12/8/11

2011-12-08T15:00:00.000-05:00

Continuing our revived Reader Photo of the Day feature (see yesterday's submission HERE), we received this beautiful pic from our old friend Greg Hnath.

From Greg: I took this picture of my brother and my father in 2009 during our vacation. My brother has Downs Syndrome and the beach has become his favorite place in the world. Every year, he waits patiently for our trip to Wildwood. He can't speak many words, but the smile on his face during vacation says it all.

This is really what it's all about, isn't it? Family, natural tranquility, and the magic of the Wildwoods.

Thanks, Greg!

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Reader Photo of the Day: Santa and his Little Helper

2011-12-07T13:17:00.000-05:00

In recent weeks, we've asked our readers what new features they would like to see here on the Wildwood 365 Blog. One of the top general requests we've received is for the return of our "Reader Photo of the Day" posts.

After Heather McCallion shared the above photo with us, we thought, "What better time than the present?"

This is Jim McCallion (Heather's father) playing the role of "Sandy Claus," posing with his grandson, three-year-old Conlon Achuff at the famous Wildwood sign.

Jim also dons the red suit for "Breakfast with Santa" at the Grand Hotel in Cape May.

Thanks to Heather for the great pic!

If you would like to submit a photo for our daily feature, simply upload it to our Facebook page or drop us a line with an attachment at wildwood365@gmail.com. The more info on the image, the better.

Photos can be current, pics from your vacation last summer, or vintage shots of your grandparents at the beach in 1952. So long as they're part of your Wildwood story, we'd love to see them!

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

2011-12-07T08:17:00.003-05:00

Today we solemnly mark the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which propelled the United States into World War II.

On that tragic day, 2,402 Americans were killed, 1,282 were wounded, and our nation was rocked to its very core. It was only through our collective courage, resolve, and strength that we were able to see through the dark days ahead.

At noon today, a Remembrance Ceremony will be held at St. Demetrios Church (321 St. Demetrios Ave.) and Hereford Inlet Seawall, to honor those who lost their lives. All are encouraged to attend.

Whether you are able to make it or not, this occasion is an opportunity to remember not only those who perished at Pearl Harbor, but all of the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of our freedom - including those who continue to serve today.

To those past and active members of the military who are reading this, we simply say...

THANK YOU.

And God Bless America.

Wildwood 365 update and plans for the future

2011-12-05T15:47:00.007-05:00

Many of our readers have asked why we have not updated the blog in several weeks. I hope that the following adequately answers that question.

But, before I even get into this, I would like to offer my most gracious thanks to all of those who have supported and continue to support Wildwood 365 (hard to believe we'll be celebrating our third anniversary next month!).

Though we have been inactive of late, we are looking forward to bigger and better things, in 2012 and beyond. This is an exciting time to be a fan of the Wildwoods, with so much going on and so many landmark projects set to get underway.

I sincerely hope that all of our friends are doing well, and would also like to offer each and everyone the very best, good health, and happiness this holiday season!

*********************

(Alright, *deep breath* Here we go...)

For literally months, I had the date "Friday, December 2nd" circled on my calendar.

With growing anticipation, I was looking forward to piling into the car with my family and making the trip down to Wildwood (for those who don't know, I live and work in Philly) to take in the events of the island's Family Holiday Celebration.

I had never made it to the tree lighting ceremonies at the Hereford Lighthouse or the Convention Center, or experienced the annual Christmas parade. Visions of sugarplums at the shore were dancing through my head all through September and October, but the seasonal festivities weren't the only reason I was excited about last Friday.

After much planning and consideration in mapping out future plans for Wildwood 365, I had decided that morning would be an ideal time to announce our ideas for "expansion" in 2012. We have a new website on the way, as we feel our humble blog has outlived its practicality.

Our staff has some other ideas in store as well, including some interactive features that we are very excited about and can't wait to share with everyone.

Again, my original intention was to post about these things on Friday. Unfortunately, those plans began to change several weeks ago, due to what I can only describe as... well, something that has been a life-changing period of time for me.

Suffice to say, I never did make it down for the holiday celebration, either.

As some of our friends and readers know through our private conversations, I have been suffering from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD); this came on very suddenly, though, in retrospect, there were warning signs that I apparently chose to ignore. In recent weeks, it has become particularly gripping and, at times, all-consuming in effect.

Every day of the past month has been a challenge, particularly due to the physical symptoms and bouts of depression that have manifested as a result of this ordeal. I hope that this doesn't come off as sounding overly-dramatic or too much of a downer. I simply feel that it's something I have to get out in the open.

Those who have dealt with this affliction and are helping me through (and you guys know who you are) have told me that I will emerge a better person for it. My perspective has already changed, as I've gained a new understanding for what those who battle emotional and mental disorders in their daily lives.

And, I swear - I SWEAR - I will never take my health and well being for granted again.

Lately, I've had some encouraging signs of improvement. A trip to Ocean City and Smithville on Saturday certainly raised my spirits, and Sunday was a good day at home. Today was a more difficult day, but I'm doing my best to focus on the positives while accepting that there will be inevitable "setbacks" along the way.

While I'm working toward getting better, two of my closest friends - my younger brother Dave Alven and my virtual older brother Mike Crater (Crazy About Wildwood) will be handling main posting duties here on the blog and on our Facebook page.

To them, and all of the others who have been helping me through this - especially my dear friends from the Doo Wop Preservation League Forum - I am deeply indebted.

And on that note - One additional discovery I've made during this time is that there is no shortage of basic human kindness in this world. Sometimes, it's very scary out there and the "unknowns" in life can be truly terrifying.

But, never underestimate the importance of a simple smile, a kind encouragement, or even a simply pat on the back.

*********************

... Alright, enough of the depressing stuff. Wildwood 365 WILL be back in full force, sooner than later, and we'll have a ton of new features and programs for 2012.

When we started this blog back in January 2009, it was for pure love of the Wildwoods and nothing else. The island is our collective passion and we look forward to continuing to share it with our friends and readers for years and years to come!

*********************

Also want to note two great new blogs that celebrate the Wildwoods that we highly recommend everyone check out (if you haven't already):

Watch The Tram Car Please is a terrific new site started this past summer by Bob Ingram and Tony Deutsch. The site hosts tons of features, and is highlighted by the incredibly colorful, insightful, and informative Boardwalk Blog.

Check it out daily for great updates, and also be sure to "Watch The Tramcar" on Facebook!

Another really cool blog was recently initiated by my friend Martin Melucci: Wildwood Motels - Yesterday, Today, Forever.

The site features profiles of Wildwood motels in tremendous detail, including many current and vintage photographs.

Please be sure to check out these great sites, and tell them that the gang from Wildwood 365 said hello!

We will be back. Soon. Be well and take care, everyone!

Al Alven
Wildwood 365

Wildwoods Hosts Festive Holiday Events for the Entire Family Dec. 2-3

2011-11-16T11:34:00.001-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

Kick-off the 2011 holiday season in the Wildwoods with festive events for the entire family on Fri., Dec. 2 and Sat., Dec. 3.

The festivities start on Fri., Dec. 2, when the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse hosts a special Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Lighthouse Courtyard. Santa Claus will make a special appearance and refreshments will be available.

The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m. and is free to attend. The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is located at 1st and Central Avenues in North Wildwood. For more information, call 609-522-4520.

Holiday house tours will take place from 7 - 9 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 2 at three locations in the Wildwoods – The Candlelight Bed and Breakfast, located at 24th and Central Avenues in North Wildwood; Summer Nites Bed and Breakfast, located at 2110 Atlantic Avenue in North Wildwood; and the J. Thompson Baker House, located at 3008 Atlantic Avenue in Wildwood.

The holiday house tours are free to attend. For more information, call 609-522-3639.

The Wildwoods Family Holiday Celebration starts with the Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade on Fri., Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. Bring a blanket or chairs and some hot cocoa, and enjoy a festive holiday procession along the streets of the Wildwoods.

The parade steps off from 15th Avenue in North Wildwood and heads south along Central and Pacific Avenues through the Holly Beach Station Mall to Heather Road in Wildwood Crest, then proceeds east onto Ocean Avenue, as the parade makes its way north, ending at the Wildwoods Convention Center.

Parade registration will begin at 6 p.m. with parade line-up at 6:30 p.m. at the North Wildwood Recreation Center, located at 10th and Central Avenues.

There is no fee to submit an entry for the parade. Trophies will be awarded later in the evening during the Christmas Parade awards ceremony inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. Awards will be given in the following divisions: Community Service, Commercial, Marching Bands and Public Service.

The rain date for the Christmas Parade is scheduled for Sun., Dec. 4 at 5 p.m. with parade line-up at 4 p.m. If the weather is uncertain, tune in to 98.7 The Coast or visit www.WildwoodHoliday.com for more information.

Immediately following the Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade, the fun continues at the Wildwoods Convention Center with a traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. After the tree lighting ceremony, head inside the Convention Center for the Christmas Parade awards ceremony where free hot chocolate and cookies will be served.

Prior to the Convention Center Tree Lighting Ceremony and Christmas Parade awards ceremony, the venue will host a Shopping Bazaar beginning at 6:30 p.m., featuring holiday-themed crafters offering unique, one-of-a-kind gift items.

On Sat., Dec. 3, the free Wildwoods Family Holiday Celebration continues at the Wildwoods Convention Center from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. with a full day of shopping, crafts, face painting, local school children’s choruses & band performances, music, gymnastics & cheer performances, a magician, free holiday movies with free popcorn, and a special visit from Santa Claus.

The exciting and fun-filled entertainment schedule for the Wildwoods Family Holiday Celebration is as follows:

ALL DAY (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) – Children’s Holiday Craft Making Table & Face Painters
ALL DAY (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) – Shopping Bazaar, Holiday Movies & Fun Entertainers
10:00 a.m. – Performance by Crest Memorial School Chorus and Band
10:30 a.m. – Performance by Gibson School of Irish Dance
11:00 a.m. – Art of Gymnastics & Cheer
11:30 a.m. – Performance by Wildwood Catholic High School
12:00 p.m. – Santa Claus arrives!
12:30 p.m. – Magician Ken Northridge
1:30 p.m. – Performance by Glenwood Choir
1:50 p.m. – Performance by Wildwood Middle School Choir
2:10 p.m. – Performance by Wildwood High School Choir
2:30 p.m. – Performance by Avalon String Band
3:30 p.m. – Performance by Cape Trinity Catholic Choir
4:00 p.m. – Performance by Margaret Mace Choir
4:30 p.m. – Jersey Cape Dance & Gymnastics Academy

Grab a seat and enjoy some of the most festive holiday films in two separate viewing rooms playing FREE holiday movie classics! The movie schedule is as follows:

Meeting Room 1:

10:30 a.m. – Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
11:30 a.m. – Frosty the Snowman
12:30 p.m. – Santa Claus is Coming to Town
1:30 p.m. – Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol
2:30 p.m. – How the Grinch Stole Christmas (cartoon version)
3:00 p.m. – A Charlie Brown Christmas
3:30 p.m. – Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Meeting Room 2:

10:30 a.m. – How the Grinch Stole Christmas (starring Jim Carrey – PG)
12:30 p.m. – Polar Express (G)
2:20 p.m. – The Santa Clause (PG)

Don’t miss your chance to take part in a fun-filled, free holiday weekend celebration! Bring the entire family and create holiday memories that will last a lifetime.

For additional information about the Wildwoods Family Holiday Celebration, please call 609-729-9000 or visit www.WildwoodHoliday.com.

Toys For Tots application information

2011-11-15T09:10:00.001-05:00

Toys For Tots applications for families with children in need of a new toy this Christmas can now be picked up at the Wildwood Police Department (4400 New Jersey Avenue).

This is the application center for Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest residents only.

Toy pick up date and location have yet to be announced.

The following press release contains Toys For Tots application info for all of Cape May County...

Cape May County Toys for Tots Application Information

If you are a resident of Cape May County and your child is in need of a new toy for Christmas, the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program may be able to help.

Applications for toys are being accepted until Dec. 2, 2011 at various municipal offices and police departments in the county.

Applicants must be custodial parent or legal guardian, must apply in person, and must be residents of Cape May County.

All applicants must present a photo ID for themselves as well as a birth certificate for each child (another form of ID may be accepted if BC is not available for child).

Residents may apply at any center in Cape May County, except Wildwood which is for Wildwood residents only. Applicants will pick up toys at the center where they applied.

Toy distribution will be held Dec. 18, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., except for Wildwood. Wildwood date and times will be announced.

For more information contact Dave Burton at 609-861-2334 or visit www.toysfortots.org
To Apply for Toys:

Lower Township: Municipal Clerks Office, 2600 Bayshore Rd., Villas. 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Applicants at this site will pick up toys at this site.

Middle Township: Applications accepted at MT Police Department, 31 Mechanic St., CMCH, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Toy pick up at CMCH Fire House, 112-B Hand Ave., CMCH.

Upper Township: Applications at Municipal Clerks Office, 2100 Tuckahoe Rd., Tuckahoe. Toy pick up at Marmora Fire House, 40 County Hwy 662. (Old Tuckahoe Rd.), Marmora.

Dennis Township: Applications at Municipal Clerks Office, 571 Petersburg Rd., Dennisville, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Toy pick up at Dennisville Fire House, 721 Petersburg Rd., Dennisville.

Woodbine Borough: Applications at Municipal Clerks Office, 501 Washington Ave., Woodbine, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Toy pick up at Woodbine Fire House at DeHirsch and Adams Ave., Woodbine.

Wildwood: This application center is for Wildwood, North Wildwood and Wildwood Crest residents only. Applications at Wildwood Police Department, 4400 New Jersey Ave., Wildwood (rear of building), open 24 hours. Toy pick up date and location will be announced at a future date.

Morey’s Piers Announces New Digital Marketing and PR Manager

2011-11-11T12:37:00.001-05:00

Nick Lassor Joins Morey’s Piers' Marketing Team

Morey’s Piers welcomes Nick Lassor to its Marketing Department as the Digital Marketing & PR Manager.

Lassor began his career at Morey’s Piers as a Marketing Intern in 2007. He joined the Events and Entertainment team after graduating from Grove City College in 2008 and managed the Beach Sports Program including Beach Blast Sand Soccer Tournaments, Beach Lacrosse and The Wild Half – Half Marathon.

Lassor’s passion about social media and new marketing techniques has helped to build Morey’s Piers online and social presence.

“We’re very pleased to have Nick join our talented young Marketing Team full time,” said Jack Morey, Executive Vice President of Morey’s Piers. “He’s sure to be an asset in Public Relations and Digital Marketing.”

Lassor will be responsible for all public and media relations, as well as digital marketing of the Morey’s Piers brand.

He grew up in Cape May Court House, where he still resides, and enjoys everything Cape May County has to offer – especially surfing along the beautiful beaches.

For more information please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call 609-522-3900.

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About Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers, located on the boardwalk in the Wildwoods, New Jersey is a classic seaside amusement park, family owned and operated since 1969. Voted the second best seaside amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers has over 100 rides and attractions spanning over eighteen acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Convenient to the major population centers of the Northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Visit them at Surfside Pier, featuring the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club at 25th Avenue, Mariner’s Landing Pier, featuring Raging Waters Waterpark at Schellenger Avenue, and Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com or phone (609) 522-3900.

Toys For Tots Beef & Beer tomorrow at the Bolero

2011-11-11T10:46:00.001-05:00

The Wildwood FOP will be hosting its annual Toys for Tots Beef & Beer at the Bolero Resort tomorrow (Saturday, November 12) from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Tickets will be available at the door.

Please consider attending and help us spread the word, as this fundraiser will help ensure that local children will not go without toys this holiday season.

For more info, contact the Bolero Resort at 609-522-6929.

Veterans Day commemorations today

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

On behalf of us here at Wildwood 365, we would like to thank all of our veterans for the sacrifices they have made and for their service to our country.

Veterans Day will be commemorated in the Wildwoods today at the following events...

North Wildwood Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5941 will be hosting two services to honor those living veterans who have served and are now serving our nation by their military service.

The first service, which will honor our local veterans, will be at 9:30 a.m. at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse (1st & Central Avenues).

The second service will be at 10 a.m. at the North Wildwood Veterans Monument (New York & Spruce Avenues) and will honor all veterans.

Vietnam Veterans America Chapter 955 and American Legion Post 184, Wildwood will be holding an observance for veterans which will include the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation, and a wreath ceremony at the Wildwood Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Fox Park at 11 a.m.

236th Marine Corps birthday party this Saturday

2011-11-07T10:30:00.000-05:00

American Legion Post 184 (Atlantic & Roberts Avenues) will be hosting a party celebrating the 236th birthday of the United States Marine Corps this Saturday, November 12th.

The event begins at noon and entrance is free. A buffet will be served all day and there will be live entertainment.

Those in attendance can purchase "Bottomless Mugs" for $15 (or with t-shirt for $27).

All profits will be donated to local charities.

Check out the event's info page on Facebook HERE.

* For those interested in staying the night on the island, the Days Inn across the street will offer a discount price if you mention Post 184. Call 609-522-0331 to make reservations.

"Casino Royale" set for Saturday night

2011-11-03T11:27:00.001-04:00

The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce will host "Casino Royale" this Saturday night, November 5th at the Bolero Resort & Conference Center (3320 Atlantic Avenue).

Tables open at 6:30 p.m., with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the GWCOC Foundation, which benefits scholarships for local students. The foundation awarded $12,000 to students in 2010, and will be looking to top that number.

Admission to "Casino Royale" will be $25.00, which also includes hot roast beef sandwiches, house salad, pizza, desserts, and $50.00 in playing chips.

Prizes will also be given away throughout the night, including gift cards, golf and spa packages, a fishing trip, and more.

For additional info, tickets, or early bird specials, contact the GWCOC at 609-729-4000 or visit the chamber's offices at 3306 Pacific Avenue.

North Wildwood Veterans Day Services

2011-11-02T13:20:00.001-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

North Wildwood Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5941 will be hosting two services on Veterans Day, Fri., Nov. 11, 2011 to honor those living veterans who have served and are now serving our nation by their military service.

The first service, which will honor our local veterans, will be at 9:30 a.m. at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse located at 1st and Central Aves. in North Wildwood. The second service will be at 10:00 a.m. at the North Wildwood Veterans Monument located at New York and Spruce Aves. in North Wildwood, and will honor all veterans.

All are welcome to attend to remember those living who have served and are now serving to ensure the freedoms we have in our great nation.

For more information about serves or qualifications on joining the Veterans of Foreign Wars, contact VFW Post 5941 Commander Joe Orlando at 1-609-729-5832.

Morey's FEARS weather updates (Latest: Final night has been CANCELED)

2011-10-29T13:25:00.000-04:00

Due to inclement weather, the final night of Morey's FEARS has been canceled.

There is no make-up date, so Morey's Piers is now closed for the 2011 season. (On a bright note, it was officially announced on Morey's Facebook page that Terror on the Boardwalk will return in 2012!)

Guest who have pre-purchased tickets for tonight which have not yet been redeemed have two options.

The tickets will be valid for Morey's FEARS 2012. If a refund is preferred, you can call 609-729-0022 on Monday, October 31st.

Original (1:25 p.m.):

We have just received word that, due to current weather conditions and forecast, Morey's FEARS opening tonight has been pushed back to 7:30 p.m.

An update is expected around 4 p.m. this afternoon.

Check back here, or at Morey's Piers' official website and Facebook page for more info.

Pumpkin Run moved indoors - but IT'S A GO!

2011-10-29T08:27:00.000-04:00

From our friend John Lynch, via Facebook...

A little rain …. A little wind … it’s not enough to the stop 3rd annual The Wildwoods Boardwalk Pumpkin Run - The event is a GO!!!!!

The 1 MILE FAMILY WALK will be held indoors at the Wildwoods Convention Center Main Hall.

Come on up and sign in - $25 Adults - $10 Students.

Doors Opens at 8:30am - Race and Walk - 10am

The students for the 4 elementary schools on the Island appreciate your efforts….

Final Weekend to Check Out Morey’s Piers

2011-10-27T11:09:00.002-04:00

New Halloween Event – Morey’s FEARS- Terror on the Boardwalk Friday, October 28 and Saturday, October 29
PRESS RELEASE

Morey’s FEARS, Morey’s Piers’ new-for-2011 Halloween event and the country’s only haunted pier, will horrify guests for two more nights – Friday, October 28 and Saturday, October 29 – this coming Halloween weekend. Leading up to its final weekend, Morey’s FEARS has thrilled, chilled and terrified thousands with its frightening attractions and abandoned theming of Mariner’s Landing October 14-15 & 21-22.

In addition to dark incarnations of the Sea Serpent, Super Scooters, Tea Cups, Pirates of the Wildwoods, Rollie’s Coaster, Musik Express, Moby Dick and Ghost Ship, Morey’s FEARS also features two, all-new, horrifying, Halloween-only attractions built exclusively for the event – CornStalkers, a creepy cornfield that ominously sprouted on the beach that twists, turns and terrifies those who dare to enter, and CarnEvil, a creepy clown-themed scare zone where the games are rigged, the snacks may attack and the clowns could catch you.

Executive Chef Wally Jurusz has also cooked up some seasonal favorites for the event, as well as food items new to Morey’s Piers. Pumpkin funnel cake will be available at various eateries on the pier, as well as Wally’s famous chowder in bread bowls. Other themed and seasonal treats include ice cream in chocolate or pumpkin cake bowls, pumpkin shaped pretzels and more. For drinks, hot cider will warm your chilled bones and Jumbo’s Restaurant will serve seasonal craft beer to guests over 21.

Morey’s FEARS is a gated event open from 6:30-11 p.m. with admission required for entry. General admission tickets for the event are $25 per person and include unlimited access to all available rides and attractions for the night. Season Pass Members can present their valid Season Passes at the gate for $10 off the admission price. Due to expected long lines on Saturday, October 29, guests are encouraged to attend Morey’s FEARS on Friday, October 28 if possible.

Be warned: this event is NOT for the faint of heart (or children under 8). Guests are not permitted to wear masks, costumes and/or makeup to the event.

For more information about Morey’s FEARS- Terror on the Boardwalk, please visit www.moreyspiers.com/fears or call 609-522-3900.

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About Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers, located on the boardwalk in Wildwood, New Jersey is a classic seaside amusement park, family owned and operated since 1969. Voted the third best seaside amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers spans over eighteen acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Convenient to the major population centers of the Northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Visit them at Surfside Pier, featuring the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club at 25th Avenue, Mariner’s Landing Pier, featuring Raging Waters Waterpark at Schellenger Avenue, and Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com or phone (609) 522-3900.

Wildwoods Launch Smartphone Website For Online Visitors

2011-10-22T08:53:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) has enhanced their current tourism website at WildwoodsNJ.com to cater to the growing number of Smartphone users looking to surf the web with ease and readability via their mobile devices.

The new Wildwoods “Smartsite” is a streamlined version of the original website, with one-touch navigation tools that make it easy to surf on-the-go from a Droid, iPhone, Blackberry or any other Smartphone device.

The mobile version of the website was developed with special features and icons that allow Smartphone web browsers to surf and scroll through information quickly and efficiently via their touch screens.

The “Smartsite” targets both potential visitors and those vacationers already enjoying the Wildwoods by incorporating targeted sections of the original website that the “surfer on-the-go” would most likely want to access for more information about what to see and do in the Wildwoods.

These sections include:

Events Calendar

A day-to-day listing of where and when all of the exciting events are happening in the Wildwoods.

Shopping

A search tool showing where the best places can be found for any type of shopping needs.

Where to Stay

Easy access to hotel and motel accommodations throughout Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood.

Where to Eat

Restaurant locations for any type of craving which can be searched by cuisine type and other criteria.

Fun Things to Do

Endless information about all of the fun attractions and activities the Wildwoods have to offer.

Contact Form

To get more information by mail and/or be added to the Wildwoods’ e-mail marketing list.

“We wanted to reach the growing number of potential visitors, as well as visitors already enjoying their Wildwoods vacations, who depend on their Smartphones for instant information about what to do, where to stay, where to eat and more – all while strolling the Boardwalk or traveling down the Garden State Parkway,” said Ben Rose, GWTIDA’s Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

“Because our website address is always a prominent feature on billboards and outdoor displays, it is especially important that Smartphone users be able to plug in that web address and be taken to a site they can easily navigate and use to plan their vacation.”

The Smartphone-friendly website, www.WildwoodsNJ.com, adapts the exciting and colorful look of the main Wildwoods website, but functions more like an “app” with simple and quick navigation options that can be selected by scrolling or tapping the touch screen.

Bright colors and a fun flash photo gallery can be found on the main homepage, giving visitors the warm welcome the Wildwoods are known for. The Smartphone website provides browsers the opportunity to have a true virtual experience of the Wildwoods from anywhere.

For more information on the Wildwoods and to experience the Smartphone website, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com on your Smartphone, or call 800-992-9732.

This Weekend: More FEARS, dead presidents (well, just one), Bonfire and "buggies" on the beach

2011-10-21T10:10:00.000-04:00

Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk returns for the second of three weekend sets - tonight and tomorrow from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The inaugural Halloween event at Mariner's Landing is coming off of a highly successful opening weekend, and we're anxiously looking forward to what the ghosts, ghouls, and zombies have planned for Round 2.

Did you attend Morey's FEARS last weekend, or do you plan on going tonight or tomorrow? We'd love to see your pics and hear about your experiences.

Visit us on Facebook or drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com.

Also see:

Morey's FEARS Opening Night (Facebook)

Wildwood's Wicked Ways: Morey's Piers gleefully embraces its darker side for debut ghoulish attraction (Press of Atlantic City)

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If you're looking for even more scares on the Boardwalk, don't forget that Morbid Manor (23rd & Boardwalk - Sportland Pier) is also open on weekends through Halloween.

Visit Gramma Morid, Shamron, and the rest of the manor's residents on Facebook, for more updated info and hours of operation.

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Over at the J. Thompson Baker Home (3008 Atlantic Ave.), weekend festivities will center around the 99th anniversary of a visit from Woodrow Wilson.

Just five days after campaigning in Wildwood, Wilson was elected the 28th president of the United States.

Activities include historical guided tours and a special dinner on Saturday night.

For more information, call 609-729-4515 or 609-522-0060, or email David Williams at davidwms1@comcast.net.

(Hey, who knows... maybe the spirit of 'ol Woodrow will make an appearance at Morey's Fears, as well. You never know who - or what - might show up...)

Also see:

Baker House: Woodrow Wilson Slept Here (Cape May County Herald)

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The 2nd Annual Bonfire on the Beach will take place on Saturday night from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 1st & Surf Avenues.

Last year's event was a big hit, and this one should be even better.

Live entertainment will be provided by Stellar Mojo and DJ QUIK.

Admission is $10 (kids under 12 are free).

Sponsored by the Anglesea Irish Society and the Greater Wildwood Jaycees.

Don't forget to bring your beach chair!

***************

Windy conditions this weekend should make for even more fun at the Wildwood Buggy "Fall Bash," hosted by the New Jersey Buggy Club.

Morey's FEARS Frightens Thousands During Opening Weekend

2011-10-20T12:07:00.002-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

Over the weekend, the gates to Morey’s Fears - Terror on the Boardwalk lurched open to welcome brave guests for Morey’s Piers inaugural Halloween event. The event was very well-attended and guests were thrilled, chilled and thoroughly terrified with the attractions and abandoned theming of Mariner’s Landing.

“Our survey results are overwhelmingly positive,” said Dino Fazio, Director of Pier Operations. “Every guest we spoke with rated the event between very good and outstanding. 90% of those surveyed say they will definitely return next year, with the remaining 10% indicating they are likely to return in 2012.”

Morey’s Fears combines seven of the most thrilling rides on Mariner’s Landing with a supercharged Ghost Ship experience and two all new attractions – CarnEvil’s creepy clowns crawl out of unexpected places to terrify guests, and CornStalkers, a corn maze located on the beach, is one of the most intense horror attractions around.

“We’re thrilled with the first weekend and we’re amped up to keep the momentum going for four more nights,” said Will Morey, President and CEO. “Morey’s Fears is definitely a hit.”

Visit Morey’s Fears - Terror on the Boardwalk on Friday and Saturday nights, Oct. 14 through 29 from 6:30-11 p.m. This is a gated event and admission is required. Tickets are $25 and include unlimited access to all available rides and attractions for the night. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at www.moreyspiers.com to avoid long ticket lines.

Be warned: this event is not for the faint of heart (or children under 8). Guests are not permitted to wear masks, costumes and/or makeup to the event.

For more information about Morey’s Fears - Terror on the Boardwalk, please visit www.moreyspiers.com/fears or call 609-522-3900.

Spend a "Wild" weekend with Woodrow Wilson

2011-10-20T11:46:00.002-04:00

On October 30, 1912, Woodrow Wilson campaigned in Wildwood and stayed at the house of J. Thompson Baker. Five days later, he was elected to his first term as the 28th president of the United States.

The island will mark the 99th anniversary of this historic occasion with a variety of activities this weekend, presented by the Friends of the J. Thompson Baker Historical Home (3008 Atlantic Avenue).

Here's the daily rundown of events...

Friday, October 21

* Soup and sandwich supper from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. with guided tours at the Wildwood Historical Society (3907 Pacific Avenue)

Saturday, October 22

* Historical tours and a Victorian Tea at the J. Thompson Baker House from noon . - 1:30 p.m.

* Woodrow Wilson Dinner featuring a special guest speaker at the Baker Home, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday, October 23

* Open house, guided tours, and brunch at the Baker House, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Admission for the Saturday dinner is $35 and for other individual events from $12-$15.

For more information, call 609-729-4515 or 609-522-0060, or email David Williams at davidwms1@comcast.net.

Reminder: Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner tonight

2011-10-19T10:03:00.000-04:00

The Greater Wildwood Kiwanis Club will host a spaghetti dinner tonight at La Piazza Cucina (4600 Pacific Ave.) from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Proceeds will be used to carry out the mission of Kiwanis and for various childrens educational programs in the Wildwoods.

Guests can enjoy dinner (eat-in or take-out) at a price of $10 for adults and $6 for children (10 and under).

Tickets are available at the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce's offices at 3306 Pacific Ave. or by calling 609-729-4000.

CBS Philly previews Terror on the Boardwalk

2011-10-14T07:17:00.000-04:00

CBS Philly meteorologist Kate Bilo is reporting on location from Wildwood this morning, where even at this hour the inhabitants of Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk are beginning to stir.

Outside of Mariner's Landing, Bilo encountered ghouls, zombies, and executive chef Wally Jurusz, who previewed his uniquely-themed food and drink menu for Morey's Piers inaugural Halloween event...

Behind the SCREAMS

2011-10-13T16:19:00.000-04:00

We are now just ONE DAY AWAY from the debut of Morey's Piers' inaugural Halloween event: Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk!

Check out this Behind the SCREAMS photo gallery, courtesy of the official Morey's FEARS Facebook page.

Also see: Frightening Funnel Cakes!

Six-story "Grand Wildwoodian" to rise on former site of the Rio Motel

2011-10-13T08:56:00.000-04:00

You know that glaringly large, empty lot across from the Wildwood Sign at the foot of the Rio Grande Avenue entrance boulevard - the space that for decades was home to the venerable Rio Motel?

According to Trudi Gilfillian of The Press of Atlantic City, it will soon be vacant no more.

The property was acquired last year by the Morey Organization, which plans to build a six-story hotel called the Grand Wildwoodian. It will merge with the preexisting Starlux Hotel to create one ultra-modern 140-unit entity, in the shadow of the Wildwoods Convention Center.

According to the Press article, the hotel will cost over $10 million and will include a banquet facility, indoor and outdoor pools, and a 124-seat restaurant on the ground floor.

Construction is slated to begin next year, and the hotel may be open by 2013.

The Grand Wildwoodian is being designed by Philadelphia-based architect Richard Stokes, whose numerous projects on the island include the Starlux (opened in 2000 following a dramatic renovation of the original Wingate Motel).

Watch Felix transform...

2011-10-12T12:08:00.000-04:00

We are now just TWO days away from the debut of Morey's Piers' inaugural Halloween event: Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk.

Felix is getting ready... are you?

Also See:
Halloween could be a lucrative venture for Morey's, boardwalk business
Maybe it's the Flu?If they build it... You will SCREAMHappy World Zombie Day!
Transforming Mariner's LandingMorey's Piers announces Halloween event

Lineup for Saturday's Fabulous '50s concert

2011-10-12T11:04:00.000-04:00

The Saturday night concert is the centerpiece and highlight of the annual Fabulous '50s Celebration.

Last year, Chubby Checker rocked the Wildwoods Convention Center as the island paid tribute to the 50th anniversary of the icon's first performance of "The Twist" (at the famed Rainbow Club on Pacific Avenue).

The stars will be out again this weekend (Saturday, October 15), as Little Anthony and the Imperials will headline a concert that will also include performances by Diamond Dave Somerville (former lead singer of The Diamonds), Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners, The Cadillacs, and The Elegants.

The concert will begin at 7 p.m., with doors opening an hour earlier. For more information and tickets, click HERE.

Little Anthony and The Imperials

Diamond Dave Somerville

Jimmy Beaumont and The Skyliners

Hunt's Legacy: Special Edition screening next Monday

2011-10-11T13:50:00.003-04:00

Next Weekend: Fabulous '50s, Morey's FEARS, NJ Lighthouse Challenge

2011-10-10T11:00:00.000-04:00

October continues to roll right along, picking up steam as we approach one of the most anticipated weekends on the Fall calendar...

Friday will mark the kickoff of both the 8th Annual Fabulous '50s Celebration and the inaugural Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk Halloween event at Mariner's Landing.

The weekend's festivities will also include the NJ Lighthouse Challenge.

Fab '50s will run the entire weekend, with a host of events highlighted by Saturday's (free!) street fair and that evening's concert at the Wildwoods Convention Center (featuring Little Anthony and The Imperials, Diamond Dave Somerville, Jimmy Beaumont and The Skyliners, The Capris, and The Elegants).

Morey's FEARS will terrify guests on Friday and Saturday night (Morey's Resorts is running some great package deals, which include tickets, motel/hotel stay, and dinner at Jumbo's; call 1-800-242-8386 for more info).

Check back this week for more info on these events, and much more...

Seafood & Music Festival today

2011-10-08T08:11:00.000-04:00

The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce will host this FREE street fair from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Atlantic Avenue between Wildwood and Schellenger Avenues.

Live music, crafters, food vendors, pie eating contest, clam chowder contest and much more! Two stages of FREE musical entertainment will feature Frank Bay and Swing City Blues Band, The Rocktologists, The Good Tymes Band, Large Flower Heads and Bandstand.

A Kids Korner with kid activities including pumpkin painting, face painting, bounces and cotton candy will take place from noon to 4 p.m. 609.729.4000 or http://www.gwcoc.com

3rd Annual Boardwalk Pumpkin Run set for October 29th

2011-10-06T08:43:00.002-04:00

The 3rd Annual Wildwoods Boardwalk Pumpkin Run has been announced for Saturday, October 29th at 10 a.m., presented by our friends at the Lunch With Lynch Foundation.

The event will include 10 k and 5 k runs, as well as a 1-Mile Family Fun Walk/Run.

Registration is $25 for adults and $10 for children, and all proceeds will benefit the Margaret Mace, Glenwood Avenue, St. Ann's, and Crest Memorial schools.

Over the past two years, this event has raised and donated $11,400 to these education foundations!

Come on out to support this great cause, and be sure to get into the "spirit" of things (prizes will be awarded for the best costumes).

For more information, check out www.BoardwalkPumpkinRun.com.

Transforming Mariner’s Landing into Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk

2011-10-05T15:37:00.000-04:00

This Sunday, Mariner's Landing will close for the season following the first annual Souper Sunday Cook Off and Closing Day Celebration (wristbands will be only $22).

That will give the Morey's Piers staff less than a week to finalize preparations for its first ever (and loooong awaited) Halloween event.

Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk will debut on Friday, October 14th and Saturday, October 15.

It will continue on the following two weekends (Oct. 21-22 and Oct. 28-29).

Suspense is building as the witching hours draw near...

PRESS RELEASE

Transforming Mariner’s Landing into Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk

Morey’s Piers Transforms the Pier in Just One Week

The Wildwoods, NJ – October 5, 2011 – Mariner’s Landing officially closes for the season on Sunday, October 9. After that, Morey’s Piers’ staff has less than a week to twist the pier into the mangled frightening carnival that will be Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk.

“It’s an all-hands-on deck event,” said Dino Fazio, Director of Pier Operations. “We have about four days to erect two custom attractions, theme the rides, create new signage and prepare all the fog machines, lights and other electric components.”

The event will feature CarnEVIL, a custom-created clown-themed scare zone filled with demented ex-circus performers as well as CornStalkers, a corn maze constructed right on the beach behind Mariner’s Landing. Morey’s Piers’ team members are building these unique attractions in-house with items found, repurposed from old rides or created by the staff.

“We’re building entrance façades for the mazes along with an extensive list of unique props that will help push the entire event beyond expectations,” said Mike Monaghan of the Morey’s Piers Facilities Team.

Guests may also recognize props from old dark rides and possibly some other high profile Wildwood Boardwalk props, like a haunted segment of the infamous tramcar.

Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk will take place on Friday and Saturday nights, October 14 through 29 from 6:30-11 p.m. This is a gated event and admission will be required. Tickets are $25 and include unlimited access to all available rides and attractions for the night.

Be warned: this event is NOT for the faint of heart (or children under 8). Guests are not permitted to wear masks, costumes and/or makeup to the event.

For more information about Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk, please visit www.moreyspiers.com/fears or call (609) 522-3900.

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Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce's 73rd Annual Installation Dinner & Awards

2011-09-30T14:43:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

On Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2011, the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce hosted its 73rd Annual Installation Dinner. The event was held at Neil’s Restaurant in Wildwood with over 120 in attendance. Attendees enjoyed an hour of networking, followed by a wonderful sit down dinner and installation program.

During the program the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce was happy to award board members and businesses owners of the Wildwoods with the following accolades:

• New Construction: Splash Zone’s Boardwalk Central

• Best New Facade: Gateway 26

• Renovation: Diamond Beach Bums

• Best New Boardwalk Business: Wildwood Insectarium

• Best New Attraction: Dragon’s Lair Blacklight Mini Golf Photo

• Best New north Wildwood Business: North End American Grill

• Best New Wildwood Business: Pacific Grill

• Best New Take-Out Restaurant: Crab and Seafood Shack

• Best New Attraction Ride: Morey’s Piers “it”

• Volunteer of the Year: Beverly Trapp of GWTIDA
For your dedication and contributions to the organizations of The Wildwoods.

• Business Person of the Year: Stephanie Marcella Patitucci
Marcella’s Café & Gelateria

• Business/Community Person of The Year: Jackie Fulginiti-Fiore Photo
In recognition of your commitment and dedication to The Wildwoods

• Board Member of the Year: Patrick Davenport
In Recognition Of Your Outstanding Contributions To The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

• Board Appreciation Award: Michael Posternock
For your service to The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

• Social Media Marketing: Al Alven from Wildwood 365
For your continued support and positive promotion of The Wildwoods

• Special Event: Roar to the Shore
Presented to One Off Marketing
For the positive economic impact that this event has to the businesses of The Wildwoods

• Quarter of a Century Award: Aldo Tenaglia
In appreciation of 25 Years of Service, Dedication, Support and Guidance to The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Staff.

• President’s Award: William “Yogi” Kurtz
With sincere appreciation for your outstanding contributions and dedication to our organization.

Monster Trucks are here and ready to THUNDER

2011-09-30T09:17:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of the Doo Wop Coffee Shop

The Thunder on the Beach Monster Truck Races begin today, with a 7 p.m. show on the beach at Lincoln Avenue.

The trucks will make various appearances around the island this weekend, so keep your eyes open.

Word is that Megasaurus is already on the beach.

World famous Grave Digger and Spider-Man will be unloading this morning at Doo Wop Coffee Shop, at Atlantic & Sweet Briar in the Crest.

Bring the kids down for a great photo-op!

A Peek at the Week: 9/25 - 10/2

2011-09-25T20:05:00.001-04:00

The following is a rundown of activities and events in the Wildwoods this week. If you see something missing, please drop us a line at wildwood365@gmail.com.

For a full calendar of Wildwoods events, click HERE.

Featured Event of the Week: Thunder on the Beach Monster Truck Races

The thrill and exhilaration of monster truck racing will take place on the beach at Lincoln Avenue in Wildwood. Monster trucks will square off on a custom beach race course for their chance to win the title of "King of the Beach."

Show also includes quad wars, tough truck competitions and stunts. Four jam-packed shows on the beach - rain or shine.

Featuring (subject to change): Gravedigger, Avenger, Spiderman, Stone Crusher, Gunslinger, Brutus, Mopar Magic, and the fire breathing, car crushing Megasaurus!

Monday, September 26th

American Kitefliers Association Convention

Tuesday, September 27th

American Kitefliers Association Convention

Wednesday, September 28th

American Kitefliers Association Convention

Thursday, September 29th

American Kitefliers Association Convention

Friday, September 30th

American Kitefliers Association Convention

Mid Atlantic Law Enforcement Survivors Weekend
Wild Thang  - Cars displayed on the Boardwalk (8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.)
An Olde Time Italian Festival  - Fox Park (5 p.m. - Midnight)
Thunder on the Beach Monster Truck Races  - Beach at Lincoln Ave. (7 p.m.)

Saturday, October 1st

American Kitefliers Association Convention - Featuring the Mega Flag Kite Fly

Mid Atlantic Law Enforcement Survivors Weekend
57th Annual Pennsauken Surf Fishing Club Tournament - (7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.)
Wild Thang  - Cars displayed on the Boardwalk (8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.)
Governor's Cup Hydrofest  - Sunset Lake (9 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

POW MIA Tribute  - Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall (10:30 a.m.)
An Olde Time Italian Festival  - Fox Park (Noon - Midnight)
Ed's Funcade Treasure Hunt & DQ Ice Cream Eating Contest - (Noon - 3 p.m.)
Morey's Piers Fall Fest  - Mariner's Landing (Noon - 10 p.m.)
Thunder on the Beach Monster Truck Races  - Beach at Lincoln Ave. (Noon / 7 p.m.)

Sunday, October 2nd

Mid Atlantic Law Enforcement Survivors Weekend

Governor's Cup Hydrofest - Sunset Lake (9 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

Morey's Piers Fall Fest - Mariner's Landing (11 a.m. - 5 p.m.)
Thunder on the Beach Monster Truck Races - Beach at Lincoln Ave. (Noon )

Last rides of the season at Adventure Pier - Farewell to the Jersey Junkyard

2011-09-25T09:15:00.000-04:00

Today is the final day of operation this season for Adventure Pier.

Not only is this your last chance to ride the Great White in 2011, it's your last opportunity to ride the Jersey Junkyard EVER.

(Bonus points if anyone out there remembers the Junkyard's original name and theme...)

The dark ride will be removed shortly; according to Morey's Piers' official Facebook page, some of its props and scenery will be used at various locations for Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk.

Both Adventure Pier and Mariner's Landing will be open from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. today.

Mariner's Landing will be open for the first two weekends of October, then will be transformed for Morey's FEARS for the weekends of Oct. 15-16, 22-23, and 29-30.

Irish Fest concludes today with mass, parade, and more...

2011-09-25T07:42:00.000-04:00

Today is the final day of the 20th Annual Irish Fall Festival.

Catholic Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anne's Church (2900 Atlantic Avenue).

The annual parade will begin at 1 p.m. at 24th & Surf Avenues, and will proceed north on Surf up to Spruce & Olde New Jersey Avenes.

Food, vendors, refreshments, and other activities will continue to be held at the festival's central hub at Olde New Jersey between 8 a.m - 7 p.m.

The live entertainment schedule at the main music tent on Olde New Jersey is as follows:

1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. – Paul Moore Band
2:30 p.m. - 2:50 p.m. – Fitzpatrick Irish Dancers
2:50 p.m. - 4:10 p.m. – The Highland Rovers
4:25 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. – Derek Warfield and the Young Wolfe Tones
6:15 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. – Paul Moore Band

Welcome to LepreCarSeafarerJam '11!

2011-09-24T07:52:00.000-04:00

Um, OK... maybe that title needs some work.

The important thing is, the rain has cleared out and we are looking ahead to a (hopefully!) beautiful first full day of Fall, packed with events and activities all over the island.

Today is Day 3 of both the Irish Fall Festival and the Boardwalk Classic Car Show, and both events are in full swing.

There is absolutely no shortage of live entertainment options up in North Wildwood at Irish Fest today, and continuing well into tomorrow. Click the link above or HERE and HERE for more info and schedules.

Classic cars will be displayed on the Boardwalk from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The car show wraps up with an auction today (10 a.m. - 6 p.m.) and the awarding of the "Best of" prizes (6 - 8 p.m.), both at the Wildwoods Convention Center and FREE to all spectators.

Down in the Crest, the borough is holding its annual Seafarers Celebration today.

The all-day event features a festival from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. out at Sunset Lake along New Jersey Ave., between Rambler & Miami Roads.

The fun concludes with live entertainment at Centennial Park from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. and a beachfront fireworks show immediately after.

Today is also Morey's Piers' 13th Annual Beach Jam - Fall Fest.

Both Mariner's Landing and Adventure Pier will be open from noon - 10 p.m. tonight (and 11 a.m - 5 p.m. tomorrow).

(Note: Tomorrow will be your last chance to ride the Great White in 2011, as Adventure Pier closes for the season. Mariner's Landing will be open for the first two weekends in October, then will be transformed for Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk for the weekends of Oct. 15-16, 22-23, and 29-30).

Morey’s Piers' 1st Annual Chili/Chowder Cook Off set for October 9th

2011-09-23T12:31:00.002-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

Get Cookin’ at Morey’s Piers'

1st Annual Chili/Chowder Cook Off

Cooks compete for “Souper” Stardom Sunday, October 9

What would fall be without the smell of chili simmering on the stove? Get a true taste of Jersey on the Wildwoods Boardwalk at Mariner’s Landing on Sunday, October 9 at Morey’s Piers’ 1st Annual Souper Sunday Chili and Chowder Cook Off – where chefs, restaurants and talented individuals will compete for the glory of being named the “Best Of” in their chosen category.

The competition will begin at 11 a.m. on Sunday, October 9 with a 2-hour cooking period. Public tastings will begin at 1 p.m. Guests can purchase tasting kits for $10 and Season Pass Members can purchase kits for $8. Tasting kits include 5 taste tickets, tasting cups and a Guest’s Choice Ballot.

“Our West Coast friends over at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk have two great cook off events each year so we decided to bring the idea to the best boardwalk on the East Coast,” said Kristel Jenkins, Events and Entertainment Manager. “What better way to end a season and welcome winter than with a hot bowl of chili or chowder?”

Got a great recipe? Register in one of three categories – Individual, Professional (for restaurants and caterers) or Corporate/Media. Each team to enter the competition receives 2 all-day, unlimited ride passes to Morey’s Piers and the chance to be named Best Chili or Chowder. Plaques will be awarded to the winners in each division.

For more information please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call 609-522-3900.

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Let the fun begin - Irish Fest / Car Show Weekend is underway

2011-09-22T10:15:00.000-04:00

Forget the fact that today is the last official day of Summer 2011.

The Wildwoods' "second season" is set to get underway with the start of one of the biggest weekends on the annual event calendar. That's right, both the Irish Fall Festival and the Boardwalk Classic Car Show kick off today.

**********

Irish Fest, which is expected to draw 200,000 people (!) to the island this weekend, will run through Sunday.

The four-day celebration of Irish culture begins tonight at the "Official Irish Music Tent" (where Olde New Jersey Ave. meets the beach), which will be transformed into a boxing arena.

Ten amateur bouts, sanctioned by the Middle Atlantic Boxing Association, will feature the Harrowgate Boxing Club (Philly) vs. the Holy Family Boxing Club (Belfast, Northern Ireland). The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $25.00 in advance and $30 at the event. To reserve or for additional info, call 215-465-1778.

**********

Car Show Weekend begins tonight with a Classic Car Street Fair, which will be held on Sweet Briar, Wisteria, and Columbine Roads in the Crest. A drive-in-style movie showing will begin at dusk.

Cars will be displayed along the Boardwalk tomorrow and Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Prizes will be awarded Saturday night from 6 - 8 p.m. in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center.

All car show events are FREE to spectators.

For more info, call 609-523-8051 or visit www.ThunderMoto.com.

**********

We will have a full preview of the weekend's festivities tomorrow.

Additional events also include:

Morey's Piers Annual Beach Jam Fall Fest

Wildwood Crest Seafarers Celebration

American Kitefliers Association Convention (begins on Sunday and runs through next week)

Fall schedule of events

2011-09-21T11:25:00.001-04:00

This Friday will mark the first day of Fall, and the kickoff of the "second season" in the Wildwoods.

Here's a rundown of the major events scheduled for the remainder of September and October:

September 22 - 24: Boardwalk Classic Car Show & Car Auction

September 22 - 25: Irish Fall Festival

September 24: Wildwood Crest Seafarers Celebration

September 25 - October 1: American Kitefliers Association Convention

September 30 - October 1: An Olde Time Italian Festival

September 30 - October 2: Thunder On The Beach Monster Truck Races

October 1 - 2: Governor's Cup Hydrofest International Powerboat Races

October 7 - 9: Charismatic Conference

October 7 - 9: Fall Thunder in the Sand Pro/Am Beach Motocross Races

October 8: Seafood & Music Festival

October 9: Morey's Piers Souper Sunday Closing Day & Chili Cook Off

Ocotber 14 - 15: Fabulous '50s Celebration

October 14 - 15: Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk

October 15 - 16: New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge

October 21 - 22: Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk

October 21 - 23: Wildwood Weekend with Woodrow Wilson

October 28: Halloween Parade & Fun Fair

October 28 - 29: Morey's FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk

October 29: 3rd Annual Wildwoods Boardwalk Pumpkin Run

Prep and design underway for Morey's FEARS

2011-09-20T12:10:00.001-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

Design and Preparations Begin for Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk

Morey’s is preparing the piers for some serious fear

Imagine strolling through Morey's Mariners Landing Pier at night without the welcoming light show of the Ferris wheel. Rides lie dark and dismantled. Somewhere in the distance there’s laughter, but it’s not the happy, carefree variety that comes with spinning the teacups too fast.

“Morey’s FEARS is designed to be one of the most intense Halloween attractions out there,” said Dino Fazio, Director of Pier Operations. “We’re putting our own twist on ten years of haunt research to make this event unforgettable.”

The Ghost Ship, having undergone numerous changes before the start of the 2011 season to make the experience more intense and immersive, will serve as a centerpiece for Morey’s FEARS.

“We’re significantly increasing the number of actors in the Ghost Ship,” said Terry O’Brien, Ghost Ship Manager. “It’s going to be a non-stop nightmare.”

Morey’s FEARS will feature a supercharged Ghost Ship experience, themed food and drink, dark versions of the Sea Serpent, Super Scooters, Teacups, Pirates of the Wildwoods, Rollie’s Coaster, Moby Dick and the Musik Express as well as a couple of all-new Morey’s FEARS only attractions, among other shocking surprises.

“Two new mazes have been designed in house by the talented team responsible for the hugely successful and ever-changing Ghost Ship,” said Jack Morey, Vice President of Morey’s Piers.

Walk through looming corn stalks in Cornstalkers – a horrifying corn maze situated on the beach near Mariner’s Landing featuring a custom soundtrack designed to disorient and terrify guests. In addition, clowns that no circus wanted run rampant in CarnEvil – a truly twisted carnival maze sprawling over one quarter of the pier. There will be plenty of other scream-inducing surprises packed into the pier as well.

A team of 16 makeup artists is preparing to mutate more than 50 actors into creepy clowns, living scarecrows and denizens of the undead with unique makeup looks.

“We’re working on hundreds of costumes for various characters,” said O’Brien. “Our actors will be clad in a variety of shop made and hand crafted costumes, all designed to instill fear and unease in any guest unfortunate enough to encounter them.”

Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk will take place on Friday and Saturday nights, October 14 through 29 from 6:30-11 p.m. This is a gated event and admission will be required. Tickets are $25 and include unlimited access to all available rides and attractions for the night.

Be warned: Morey’s FEARS is NOT for the faint of heart (or children under 8). Guests are not permitted to wear masks, costumes and/or makeup to the event.

For more information about Morey’s Fears - Terror on the Boardwalk, please visit www.moreyspiers.com/fears or call 609-522-3900.

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Firemen's parade today, fireworks tonight

2011-09-17T08:45:00.000-04:00

Today is the final day of the annual New Jersey State Firemen's Convention.

The highlight of the festivities, the Firemen's Parade, will kick off at 1 p.m. sharp from Crocus Road in the Crest. It will continue up New Jersey Avenue, eventually ending at 8th Avenue in North Wildwood.

On average, the parade is four and half hours long. This year's procession will feature over 300 pieces of apparatus by over 200 individual companies from four states. A total of 18 bands will perform along the parade route, and prizes will be awarded at the Wildwoods Convention Center tonight at 9 p.m.

At 10 p.m., the final fireworks display of the year will be set off on the beach at Pine Avenue.

Crest's Seafarers Celebration set for Sept. 24th

2011-09-16T19:35:00.000-04:00

Every year, Wildwood Crest marks the official end of summer with its Seafarers Celebration. The all-day festival features music, dance, and a wide variety of additional family entertainment, vendors, and more.

Here are the details on this year's event, set for next Saturday, September 24th...

Wildwood Crest to host Seafarers Celebration

The Borough of Wildwood Crest will host its annual Seafarers Celebration Saturday, Sept. 24. This yearly end-of-summer celebration is an all-day festival that will take place at both Sunset Lake and Centennial Park.

The Seafarers Celebration will begin at 9 a.m. at Sunset Lake, located along New Jersey Avenue between Rambler Road and Miami Avenue. Scores of craft vendors and a variety of food vendors will line the Sunset Lake area. The event will also include live music, children’s and family entertainment and much more.

Live music includes classic and progressive rock with local favorites the Nobody Band; classic rock and pop with Dogged N Driven; pop and oldies hits with Michael James; and more.

Children’s and family entertainment includes an entertaining puppet show for the entire family by Kamp Kreatures, a thrilling stunt bike exhibition, karaoke, an exotic bird show, magic shows and more. Face painters, a moon bounce and much more will also be on hand.

At 7 p.m., the festival continues near the beachfront at Centennial Park, located at Fern Road and Ocean Avenue, with a live musical performance by Bandstand, one of the longest-running and most popular dance and party bands in the Delaware.

Following the performance by Bandstand, the Seafarers Celebration culminates with a spectacular beachfront fireworks show scheduled to go off at 9 p.m.

For more information, log on to www.visitwildwoodcrest.com, www.wildwoodcrest.org or call 523-0202.

Morey's Piers reveals more info on Halloween event

2011-09-15T13:19:00.000-04:00

This morning, Morey's Piers issued more details on its first ever Halloween event - Morey's FEARS -Terror on the Boardwalk - which take place at Mariner's Landing on Friday and Saturday nights, from October 14th - 29th.

Here's the full press release, which includes background on the creation of the event, as well as info on two exclusive attractions, seasonal food and drink options, and more...

PRESS RELEASES

Coming Attractions at Morey’s FEARS - Terror on the Boardwalk

Morey’s FEARS takes over Mariner’s Landing this October

For six nights in October, Morey’s Mariner’s Landing will transform into a nightmare – called Morey’s FEARS – that will include dark incarnations of the Sea Serpent, Super Scooters, Tea Cups, Pirates of the Wildwoods, Rollie’s Coaster, Musik Express and Moby Dick.

Also, look for an especially traumatizing Ghost Ship experience at the heart of the event.

“This event has been ten grueling years in the making. We’ve been talking about it, having meetings and making plans; we just needed a centerpiece to justify something of this magnitude,” said Jack Morey, Executive Vice President.

The Morey Brothers and their team have spent those ten years researching successful Halloween events. They have made trips to the most intense haunts and horrors all over the country, as well as around the globe, to make Morey’s FEARS the most immersive, intense event possible.

“The event is being produced in house by a 20-member team of associates from all departments,” said Dino Fazio, Director of Pier Operations. “All of our full time associates will play a role in the build up and nightly productions of Morey’s FEARS.”

Morey’s FEARS will feature 2 all-new horrifying, Halloween-only attractions built exclusively for the event. CornStalkers, a creepy cornfield that ominously sprouted on the beach, will twist, turn and terrify those who dare to enter. Decaying clowns no big top would take creep around every corridor of CarnEvil. Both mazes will only appear during Morey’s FEARS.

“Our architect has done some incredible work designing and rendering two new mazes, and we’re preparing a heightened Ghost Ship experience by doubling the actors throughout,” said Jack Morey.

Executive Chef Wally Jurusz will cook up some seasonal favorites for the event, as well as food items new to Morey’s Piers. Pumpkin funnel cake will be available at various eateries on the pier, as well as Wally’s famous chowder in bread bowls.

Other themed and seasonal treats include ice cream in chocolate or pumpkin cake bowls, pumpkin shaped pretzels and more. For drinks, hot cider will warm your chilled bones and Jumbo’s Restaurant will serve seasonal craft beer to guests over 21.

Morey’s FEARS will be a gated event with admission required for entry. General admission for the event will be $25. Season Pass Members can present their valid Season Passes at the gate for $10 off the admission price. Attendance to the event will be limited each night to provide guests with a more intimate experience as well as to maintain a high level of show quality.

For weary travelers looking for respite from zombies and ghouls, Morey Resorts is offering hotel packages, including a one or two night stay in one of the Morey hotels, tickets to Morey’s FEARS and a pizza dinner at Jumbo’s. Hotels offering packages include the Port Royal, The Starlux and the Blue Palms. For more information about hotel packages, please call 1-800-2-HAV-FUN.

Be warned: Morey’s FEARS is NOT for the faint of heart (or children under 8). Guests are not permitted to wear masks, costumes and/or makeup to the event.

For more information about Morey’s Fears - Terror on the Boardwalk, please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call 609-522-3900.

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Firemen's Convention begins today

2011-09-14T14:06:00.002-04:00

The annual New Jersey State Firemen's Convention begins today and will run Saturday, with activites centered at and around the Wildwoods Convention Center.

The highlight of the four-day gathering will be the parade on Saturday. Procession will begin at 1 p.m. on New Jersey Avenue, from Crocus Road in the Crest to 9th Avenue in North Wildwood.

Other events will include a Firefighters Weekend Craft Show on Friday and Saturday, and a special fireworks display (the very last of the year!) on Saturday night at 10 p.m. on the beach at Pine Avenue.

For more information, visit the official website of the NJ State Firemen's Association.

Also, check out the Wildwoods Event Calendar for a list of additional events for the remainder of the year.

Celebrate Autumn in the Wildwoods with Morey’s Piers

2011-09-12T14:29:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

Beach Jam and Fall Fest
entertain families this fall

The fun doesn’t stop after Labor Day!

Morey’s Piers welcomes the changing seasons with Fall Fest on Saturdays and Sundays, October 1-2 and 8-9 on Mariner’s Landing Pier. Bring the whole family and enjoy discounted ride wristbands, giveaways, strolling entertainment, face painting and more.

“Autumn is one of the best times to visit Morey’s Piers and the Wildwoods,” said Kristel Jenkins, Events and Entertainment Manager. “There are fewer crowds and the beach and boardwalk are beautiful. It’s an ideal setting for laid back family entertainment.”

Fall Fest will coincide with Morey’s Piers’ 1st Annual Souper Sunday Chili and Chowder Cook Off on Sunday, October 9. The Cook Off will be an opportunity for local restaurants and talented individuals to showcase their talents and compete for the title of best chili and chowder.

From September 23-25, Morey’s Piers will host Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts from all over the East Coast at the 17^th Annual Fall Beach Jam event. Aside from camping on the beaches and enjoying Morey’s Piers amusements, Scouts will be treated to something new this year.

“We’re excited to introduce some new features to our Fall Beach Jam activities,” said Jenkins. “We’re gearing up for our Halloween event with some more family friendly activities for our Scouts like hayrides and exclusive ride times for the Ghost Ship.”

Scouts can enjoy an all-new “Creepy Friday” on Friday evening. Morey’s Piers is planning a hot chocolate bar called “Cocoa Café Friday night along with hayrides, a bonfire on the beach and exclusive entry to the Ghost Ship.

For more information about Fall events at Morey’s Piers, please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call 609-522-3900.

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About Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers, located on the boardwalk in the Wildwoods, New Jersey is a classic seaside amusement park, family owned and operated since 1969. Voted the third best seaside amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers has over 100 rides and attractions spanning over eighteen acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Convenient to the major population centers of the Northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Visit them at Surfside Pier, featuring the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club at 25th Avenue, Mariner’s Landing Pier, featuring Raging Waters Waterpark at Schellenger Avenue, and Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com or phone (609) 522-3900.

It's Mummers Stringband Saturday!

2011-09-10T09:48:00.000-04:00

One of the most colorful events of the year takes place this afternoon in North Wildwood as nine famous string bands will take part in the town's annual Mummers parade, starting at Olde New Jersey Ave.

The festivities will kick off at 4 p.m. with a Mummers strut contest.

The parade will begin at 4:45 p.m. and will feature: Aqua, Avalon, Durning, Fralinger, Ferko, Hegeman, Quaker City, South Philly, and Woodland.

Remembering 9/11 in the Wildwoods

2011-09-09T14:20:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of the Greater Wildwoods Chamber of Commerce...

As we take time to reflect on the 10th Anniversary of a day none of us will ever forget, let us come together to grieve, to remember, to express our gratitude to those who demonstrated what it is to be a hero, and to pledge ourselves to live in honor of their bravery. Join the Wildwoods as we remember.

Wildwood

Wildwood will hold the 10th anniversary 9/11 Memorial Ceremony at 8:00 am at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall located across the street from the WildwoodsConvention Center on Ocean Ave. At 9 am a moment of silence will be observed along the waters edge behind the Convention Center for all the victims of 9/11. For more information, call 609.729.8870.

Wildwood Crest

Wildwood Crest's Patriot's Day Memorial Service will be held at 5:30 pm on New Jersey Ave. & Miami Road adjacent to Sunset Lake. Call 609.522.0202 for more details.

"Hands Across the Wildwoods" will be held in Centennial Park (Fern Rd. and the Ocean) at 8:00 am. Join us for a peaceful gathering to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the tragedy of 9/11 which took the life of Andrew Alameno and 2,996 other citizens of our country. A small ceremony will take place followed by a patriotic procession down to Rambler Rd. to the beach that Andrew served as a lifeguard in his youth. All are asked to join hands for a moment of silence as an American Flag will fly overhead by a banner plane at the approximate time the towers fell. 609.827.8474.

North Wildwood

North Wildwood's Commemoration of the 9/11 tragedies is 8:45 am at City Hall, 9th & Atlantic Aves. Call 609.522.2030.

___________________________________________________________

Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders invite you to attend the 10th annual Patriot Day Ceremony. The ceremony will be held at 1:00 pm outside the County Administration Building, 4 Moore Road (Exit 11 off the Garden State Parkway) in Cape May Court House.

*A resolution has been passed by the United States Congress as well as Cape May County Freeholders calling all communities, churches, firehouses and the public to acknowledge this anniversary with the ringing of bells for one solid minute at exactly 1:00 pm.

Thousands of Motorcycles Thunder into the Wildwoods During 'Roar to the Shore'

2011-09-07T14:38:00.001-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

The Wildwoods welcomes motorcycle riders and enthusiasts from all over the east coast to the five-mile island Thu., Sept. 8 through Sun., Sept. 11 for the resort’s annual Roar to the Shore motorcycle rally.

The four-day Motorcycle Rally will feature vendor areas containing hundreds of top-of-the-line merchants offering everything from pin-striping for your bike, souvenirs and new leather, to eye protection and fine cigars.

Merchants will be spread across five separate vending areas, located at the Wildwoods Convention Center’s parking lots and all along Oak and Atlantic Avenues in downtown Wildwood.

Vendor areas open at 10 a.m. on Thurs., Sept. 8 and at 9 a.m. Friday through Sun., Sept. 9-11 and will also include demo rides on the three-wheeled Can-Am Spyder Roadster; as well as tours of the Jack Daniels Experience – a mobile Jack Daniels museum, and meet-and-greets with this year’s Grand Marshal of the Rubber Duck Ride: Animal Planet’s The Pit Boss, Shorty Rossi.

Roar to the Shore 2011 will also feature free live musical entertainment from Kathouse – an all-female rock cover band. Kathouse will perform on Sat., Sept. 10 from noon-4 p.m. at the vendor areas at the Wildwoods Convention Center’s parking lots.

Up-and-coming rock band, The Groove, will perform live from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. on Sun., Sept. 11. Other ongoing entertainment taking place during the rally includes the Lucky Daredevil Thrill Show inside the Wildwoods Convention Center and ‘adult’ comedienne Suzanne Austin at the Casba Comedy Club, located at 3810 Atlantic Avenue in Wildwood, on Fri., Sept. 9 at 10:30 p.m. and Sat., Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased by calling 609-522-8444.

Roar to the Shore will also include classic events such as a Friday gathering at Bolero Hotel and ride to Kindle Ford for a Pig Roast that leaves from the Wildwoods at noon; a FREE Walking Poker Run on Saturday at noon, a Biker Babe Contest on Sat. at 7 p.m.; and Sunday’s Rubber Duck Boardwalk Ride and 2011 Harley Davidson 1200 Custom Sportster Give Away at 12:30 p.m. starting at the southern end of the Wildwoods Boardwalk and ending at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Roar to the Shore will commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11 by dedicating the Boardwalk Ride to all of the men and women who were impacted by the Sept. 11 tragedy.

A small ceremony will be held at Fox Park, across the street from the Wildwoods Convention Center, on Sun., Sept. 11 at 8 a.m. to honor all of those who lost their lives as a result of the tragedy on Sept. 11 2001. Following the ceremony, the procession will head down to the waters edge where everyone will stretch across the Wildwoods beaches and observe a moment of silence at approximately the time the towers fell.

The 2nd Annual Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash will be held in conjunction with Roar to the Shore, from Fri., Sept. 9 through Sun., Sept. 11, inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. The Tattoo Beach Bash will host over 85 major national tattoo artists, as well as activities including: tattoo contests, a traveling tattoo museum, seminars, art exhibits, door prizes and more. Celebrity tattoo artist Tim Hendricks from TLC's New York Ink will be in attendance at the event. Also, be sure to check out the rarely seen Japanese Hand Method of Tebori Tattooing on display.

Sponsored by Budweiser, Jack Daniels, Rider Insurance, Atlantic County Harley Davidson, Stark & Stark Attorneys-at-Law, the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority and the City of Wildwood, the Wildwoods’ Roar to the Shore 2011 promises to provide non-stop excitement for motorcycle riders and enthusiasts from across the region.

For more information about Roar to the Shore 2011, visit www.roartotheshoreonline.com or call 609-729-8870.

For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.

20th Annual Irish Fall Festival to Begin Sept. 22

2011-09-03T16:09:00.001-04:00

PRESS RELEASE

The largest Irish festival on the east coast begins on Thurs. Sept. 22, and concludes on Sun., Sept. 25.

This festive four day event is sponsored by James J. Reilly, Division 1, Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH). The AOH is an organization which fosters and preserves Irish culture and heritage.

The success of this festival has been overwhelming, and continues to draw more and more people each year. With over one hundred vendors, sixteen food vendors, and an estimated crowd of over 200,000, this gathering will definitely be the place where you want to be!

The activities begin on Thursday, September 22, at 7:30 a.m. with a round of golf at the Avalon Golf Club on Route 9 in Swainton. The fee is $90 on or before September 15 and $100 after. The fee includes golf fees, cart, cap, buffet, beer and many prizes. Space is limited and reservations are suggested. For additional information, please contact the AOH.

On Thursday evening, the festival will begin where Olde New Jersey Ave. meets the ocean. The tent at The Pointe at Moore’s Inlet will be transformed into a boxing arena.

Ten amateur boxing bouts, sanctioned by the Middle Atlantic Boxing Association, will feature the Harrowgate Boxing Club, Philadelphia, PA vs. the Holy Family Boxing Club, Belfast, Northern Ireland. The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.. For advanced ticket sales please call 215-465-1778.

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday the festivities will take place on Olde New Jersey Ave. Here the street vendors will display their Irish memorabilia, and the food vendors will offer a variety of Irish and non-Irish treats.

This activity begins at 8 a.m. each morning and continues until 7 p.m. Stop by and visit the AOH table for additional information.

On Friday and Saturday, there will be free live entertainment continuously from noon until 10:30 p.m. As always, the concert will begin with the National Anthem sung by Dolly McGee, followed by the Irish National Anthem sung by Mary Pat Hastings.

Other featured performers include: Timmy Kelly, Maura McKinney-Mastro, Ballina, Broken Shillelaghs, Birmingham 6, Celtic Pride and many, many more.

Saturday begins with a 5K Run. If you are interested, you can sign up at 8AM at the AOH tent (between 1st and 2nd aves.) on Olde New Jersey Ave. Cash prizes will be awarded.

Saturday at 10 a.m. the Brian Riley Pipe Exhibition will take place at the field located at 8th and Central aves. This event attracts thousands of spectators. Come see and hear some of the best pipe bands in the East!

Also on Saturday, the AOH will host free Irish Dance Lessons at the Anglesea Volunteer Fire House, located in the heart of the festival activities at 2nd and Olde New Jersey aves. from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.. Later that evening join in the action and spend the evening at the Ceili taking place from 7 – 11 p.m.

The Pearl River Ceili Band, featuring Patty Furlong, Felix Dolan and Dylan Foley, will perform at this event. There is a $15 admission fee and includes a light fare (coffee, tea, cookies and cakes). Other refreshments will be available.

On Sunday, everyone is welcome to celebrate our faith and heritage at Saint Anne’s Roman Catholic Church in the Notre Dame de la Mer Parish, Glenwood and Atlantic aves., for 10:30 a.m. Mass. There will be a procession from the main entrance to the altar by the Protectors of the Faith Guards, the Cape May County Emerald Society Color Guard and a liturgical bag piper soloist.

Sunday at 1 p.m. the parade begins at 24th and Surf aves. and will continue to Spruce and Olde New Jersey aves. The Irish Fall Festival is honored to announce that retired Staff Sergeant Jon R. Cavaiani, United States Army soldier and recipient of the United States military’s highest honor, the Medal of Honor, will serve as the 2011 Grand Marshal.

Jon served with the Special Forces in Vietnam in 1970, was captured and spent two years as a prisoner of war. Jon was released by the Provisional Government of Vietnam on March 27, 1973.

In addition, we are honored to have Shamus Boyle, National President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, as a special guest. All AOH organizations are welcome to be a part of this celebration of Irish history and heritage.
The parade will also feature Miss North Wildwood, Grace Lederer, many fraternal organizations, bag pipe bands, Irish dance groups and much, much more.

The official Irish Music Tent, featuring continuous Irish entertainment throughout the weekend is located in the municipal parking lot across from The Pointe at Moore’s Inlet.

The Irish Music Tent will feature non-stop entertainment with The Paul Moore Band, Broken Shillelaghs, Celtic Connection, Sean Fleming Band, Secret Service The Bogside Rogues, The Barley Boys, The Highland Rovers, Split Decision and Derek Warfield and the Young Wolftones.

For discount weekend admission tickets, $20 for all three days, please call 215-397-5909.

Irish food and entertainment will be available at most of the clubs and pubs in North Wildwood all weekend long.
As always, bus service will be available from the Anglesea Fire Hall – 2nd and Olde New Jersey Ave. along Surf Ave. to 26th St. Additional bus service will be available through Wildwood and Wildwood Crest.

As a result of this extremely successful annual fund raising event, the AOH achieves significant charitable accomplishments. These contributions reflect the loyalty and ideals which have helped to strengthen our families, community, and national character.

This festival is sponsored, in part, by Budweiser and Greater Wildwood Tourism Improvement and Development Authority.

The AOH would like to acknowledge and thank Mayor Bill Henfey and the City of North Wildwood for their annual support of this event.

For entertainment schedules and biographical information for Staff Sergeant Jon R. Cavaiani, CLICK HERE.

For additional information contact the AOH at 800-IRISH-91 or www.cmcaoh.com.

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A little rain …. A little wind … it’s not enough to the stop 3rd annual The Wildwoods Boardwalk Pumpkin Run - The event is a GO!!!!! The 1 MILE FAMILY WALK will be held indoors at the Wildwoods Convention Center Main Hall. Come on up and sign in - $25 Adults - $10 Students.

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A little rain …. A little wind … it’s not enough to the stop 3rd annual The Wildwoods Boardwalk Pumpkin Run - The event is a GO!!!!!

The 1 MILE FAMILY WALK will be held indoors at the Wildwoods Convention Center Main Hall.

Come on up and sign in - $25 Adults - $10 Students.

Doors Opens at 8:30am - Race and Walk - 10am

The students for the 4 elementary schools on the Island appreciate your efforts….