Welcome Back to Wildwood by-the-Sea 2021 by The Sun by-the-sea

MAY - JUNE 2021

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Year 17 Vol. 1

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Where YESTERDAY and TODAY meet by-the-sea

“LOVE BEGINS WITH A SMILE.”

FUN SUN

we’re g on a bigge na need r boat!

THU MBS U KINDP 4 NESS

John & Vicki Lynch, Raelyn Bartee, Gianni Troiano, Layla & Colin Weiser and Mily Palacios

Read cover story inside.

M.S. Brown Jewelers SINCE 1950

STEAKS

OPENING MAY 27, 2021

RUSSO’S HOAGIES OPEN

Brand New Exclusive Items for Summer 2021!

BURGERS

3304 Pacific Ave., Wildwood, NJ 609-522-7604 MSBrownJewelers.com 5 South Main St., Unit 103, CMCH, NJ 609-463-8799

2 “May your home always be too small to hold all of your friends.” ~Housewarming Blessing

HoffmaN. agency inc real estate

WE KNOW WHAT MATTERS

D Since 1945 D OCEANFRONT. 2 BR, 2 Bath unit with pool, sauna, workout room and so much more. Cape May $995,000.

5 STAR AMENITIES. 2 BR, 2 Bath unit, w/pool, sauna, and more. Impressive rental income. Cape May $850,000.

EXQUISITE! Single Family with 5 BR, 3.5 Baths, 2 blocks to beach. Being built. Wildwood Crest $1,399,000.

Joseph & Rita Von Savage on the Wildwood Boardwalk, c. 1940s

CLEARED LOT. In residential area, near sports complex. Promising location. Build here! Wildwood $75,000.

NICE DUPLEX. Two units, each w/3 BR and Bath. New roof & windows, freshly painted. Wildwood Crest $649,000.

BEACH FRONT. Two 1 BR oceanfront units w/pool. Excellent rental income, or great vacation homes. Wildwood Crest $225,000.

WATERFRONT. Stunning views from 3 BR, 2 Bath unit w/boatslip, near boating & restaurants. Wildwood $599,000.

GREAT LOCATION. 3 BR, 2.5 Bath condo 2 blocks to beach and bay. Sold fully furnished! Wildwood Crest $519,000.

BRAND NEW. Two beautiful Townhomes, each with 5 BR, 3.5 Baths. Chef’s Kitchen, Bay views from every window in 1, from each balcony in the other. Both have every amenity that spells luxury and class. Don’t miss these! Wildwood Crest $849,000. $899,000

6301 Pacific Ave. Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 609.522.8177 Fax: 609.523.0472 www.hoffmanwildwoodcrest.com

Happy Summer 2021

Exercise daily- walk with God everyday.

“Walking is man’s best medicine.” ~Hippocrates The Sun is the first thing I look for when in the Wildwoods. It’s the Andy Griffith and Waltons of newspapers. So clean, so humble , so peaceful and so GOOD ! ~Joseph DeWan

While You Were Away - 6-17 Compiled by Al Alven, Meg Corcoran & Dorothy Kulisek

t o d ay m e e t b y - t h e - s e a

“At the beach, we seem to be able to leave complications behind, slow down, breath deeper, remember what’s important. . .” ~Sandy Gingras

I’ve been walking the beach for most of my life. It’s where I feel most at home. The beach makes me want to walk. Some of us walk to count steps, others because it’s magical and beautiful and mysterious. I especially love walking at sunrise. I began sharing my photos on social media over ten years ago because I wish for everyone to have a little beach in their heart, especially those who aren’t early risers or aren’t able to be here but yearn to be. People always tell me how lucky I am to live at the beach. (I couldn’t agree with them more!) I take not one step for granted. During my walks I like to stop and say a prayer of thanks. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve looked down to find a rare sanddollar or an angel-wing, as if they were an answer to a prayer at that very moment. The simple act of walking, of putting one foot in front of the other... every day, is the one spiritual discipline that is consistently associated with a life of faith. It has changed me, grown me and molded me over the years, and even overflowed onto the pages of The Sun. Author Mark Buchanan says this about walking in his wonderful book simply titled Godwalk, “It is so common, it’s almost pedestrian. We walk because we see things differently when we walk. We feel more deeply, think more clearly. We walk to figure things out. We walk to sort ourselves out. We walk to get in shape. We walk to get a sense of the scale of things—the real distance between places.” One of the most beautiful things I noticed during the pandemic was something I realized, had been missing from the landscape. The sight of whole families walking together was like a breath of fresh air. I noticed them because I too was walking ~ with my mother by my side, walking up and down the streets of North Wildwood, enjoying the extra time given to us so we could stop and smell the roses and say hi to our neighbors. Moreso than ever before, I think we walk because in many ways we are trying to make sense of this world. Experiencing land and sky and sea and light in a fresh new way has brought us closer to reality in the midst of uncertainty and fear. Walking slow to keep pace with God may just be the speed of our souls... Walking in rhythm to the speed of the rolling waves, may just be the way we find our true selves. AS I WALK WITH BEAUTY So, my wish for you this summer is to follow your own easy path, hopefully As I walk, as I walk touched by sand and surf, traveling The universe is walking with me at God’s steady, soulful speed toward In beauty it walks before me your very own Heaven on Earth, enIn beauty it walks behind me joying the view and every step along In beauty it walks below me the way... In beauty it walks above me Beauty is on every side Welcome Back to the beach! As I walk, I walk with Beauty.

Dorothy

Artist / Editor / Publisher The SUN by-the–sea, Wildwood, NJ

All-Things-Wildwood Old & New

Veteran Tributes - 4

dorothy’s

w h e r e y e s t e r d ay

See what’s inside

~A NAVAJO PRAYER~

Our House ~ Joe Russo 16 The Four Eldoradians - 18 NJ Coastal Heritage Trail - 20 Holly Doran’s Summer Fun -23 Five Miles of Smiles Joe McNamee, Sam Spera 26

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So it never ends! d again! and read again an er ov d an er ov it Flip ummer Sun}

ndless S {Enjoy The E

Take your T ime Don’t read too fast Soak in the S unshine Make it last!

This Old House & a Medal from King George 217 E. 20th Ave. - 28-29 FUN in the SUN with Mr. LUNCH - 30 Ed Morton’s Wild About Wildwood - 32 Blast from the Past Yearbooks - 33 THE FLIP SIDE The Story of Henny - 3 McMichael’s Summers on the Sound - 4 History of Wildwood WaterWorks 6-7 Catch Ya Later Joe B. 7 Our Gal Tony ~ Catherine DeAngelis 8 Poppy’s Place in The Sun 10 Capt. Tom Stocker’s Sightseer Replica 12 Capt. Chuck Schumann Retires from the Sightseer 13 Rachel Rogish Fishing with Capt. Gary & Tides 14 John Primerano Wildwood Memories 15 Churches on the Island 17 Charles Cook’s Health Resort 18-19 Remembering Kathryn Filippo 22 1940s Charlie Neill’s Boardwalk 24 1964 in Wildwood Al Brannen 25 Hollywood Comes to Wildwood Meg the Movie Buff 27

United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 83 of Wildwood will be holding VESSEL SAFETY INSPECTIONS at the following marinas: Pier 47 on May 22. Schooner Island on May 29. Shawcrest on June 5. Stone Harbor on June 12. Avalon Manor on June 19. Times are 8am till 3pm. There is no fee for the inspection. Please contact Paul Will @ 215-884-9190 for further information.

gggggggggggggg Artist, Editor & Publisher, Ad Sales

Dorothy McMonagle Kulisek 609.214.5608

The SUN by-the-sea©2021 The Original, Nostalgic, Magazine published by So You’ll Know, inc. Published, Edited & Designed by Dorothy Kulisek with the help of those listed here: Assistant Editor, Meg Corcoran Contributors: Al Alven • Al Brannen • Holly Doran Jessica W. Mumford • John Primerano • Rachel Rogish • Joe Russo • Gary Sloan

Next issue Out July 7, 2021 “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment or religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of people peaceably to assemble and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” – 1st Amendment to the Constitution of the U.S.A.

no beach bag can be without it!

LESS GOD B ETS! V OUR

Disclaimer The Sun by-the-Sea Newspaper© and So They’ll Know Inc. cannot pledge the accurateness or comprehensiveness of all editorial content in all of its constituent parts.

“Any society that needs disclaimers has too many lawyers.” ~Erik Pepke

4 “. . . and the waters He called Seas. . . and God saw that it was good.” “You can always find the sun within yourself if you will only search.” -Maxwell Maltz

~Genesis 1:10

May Events M AY Hath 31 Days.

5/26 FULL FLOWER MOON

Our Local Heros

Be like the Moon and Shine like the Sun!!

The moon, having no light of its own, reflects the light of the Sun in such a way that it illuminates the darkness of night...all we have to do is walk outside, bask in the Sun and receive it.

Memorial Weekend Events

5/29-30, 7/3-4, 17-18, 8/7-8, 14-15, 8/21-22, 9/4-5 Boardwalk SID Craft Shows All handmade products. 9 am - 5 pm Daily. Free. 609.522.0378 or 609.522.0198 5/30 Wildwood Crest Summer Kickoff Concert, Centennial Park, Fern Rd. and Ocean Ave., Wildwood Crest. 7:30pm

5/28 Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony

On the beach next to the Wildwoods Convention Center. Official start of the 2021 Summer Season. 12noon. Guest speakers, kites in the air - get your feet sandy for the first time this year!

5/30 Memorial Day Parade & Candlelight Vigil. Lineup 6pm on Oak & Pacific Avenues, Wildwood, parade 7 pm 609.522.3613

5/28-31 Wildwoods International Kite Festival On the Beach at and inside the Wildwoods Conv. Center.

5/30 PATRICK CORCORAN 5k Memorial Day Run. 20th Ave. Beach, Reg. 7:45am, Race – 9am nwwvetrun.com | Tom - 267566-8359 | Dennis - 215-990-8689

5/28-30 State Gymnastics Competition Wildwoods Conv Center. 8:30am- 8pm

Bill Wallace WWII USAF Veteran

The Greatest Generation We heard of Bill’s passing at 100 years old in January 2021. Here he is in front of his North Wildwood summer home (above) and in the service (below). Bill loved spending time here at the shore enjoying his garden and his friendly neighbors Larry & Thoy Hippen and the Einhaus’s. There is no truer saying that “Those who saw the most, say the least.” I stopped by one day for a visit... Bill was more eager to share his garden with me then his story. As is true of many war heroes, Bill did not want me to publish his story. He left me speechless when he said “I remember EVERYTHING.” Thank you for your service Bill!

TSGT. George Watson, Sr. WWII Tuskagee Airman Few words have ever been written in the history books about the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. Wildwood native George Watson, was a member of the famed black unit of the U.S. Army Air Corps, a group whose ability to overcome adversity became a legend. George was born in 1920 in a house on Hand Ave. His family moved to Lakewood, where after graduating high school in 1941, he voluntarily joined the service. Watson’s first assignment with the group was as a technical supply sergeant, and he went on to serve with the airmen under the 96th and 523rd Service groups and the 322nd Fighter group in Italy at the height of World War II. In later years, Watson, along with about 300 airmen, received a Congressional Gold Medal from President Bush. These men were the first squad of black pilots in the US Military who made history by flying 200 strategic bomber escort missions over Europe with the 15th Air Force without the loss of a single bomber to enemy aircraft… A record unsurpassed.

5/29 Downtown Wildwood Farmer’s Market Season Kick-Off at Byrne Plaza. 3400 Pacific Ave., 8am every Saturday til Labor Day, 609.523.1602 or DOOWW.com

5/31 MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONIES at Veterans Monument, 1st & Spruce Ave., North Wildwood 10am. Moves to American Legion Post 184, 4200 Atlantic Ave., Wildwood, 11am.

Wildwoods Weekly Events! Free Weekly Events All Summer Long FREE Friday Night Fireworks FREE Outdoor Concerts 4-Nights Each Week FREE Boardwalk Parades 4-Nights Each Week FREE Movies Under-The Stars Every Tuesday FREE Beaches Always and Free Family Fun Visit our Events Calendar at WildwoodsNJ.com

Have Fun in the Sun!

“The beach is where our souls realign with the universe. The horizon answers questions. The surroundings give peace.” - Gracie Arbitell

June Events

J U N E Hath 30 Days.

“It was morning, and the new sun sparkled gold across the ripples of a gentle sea.” ~Richard Bach, Jonathan Livingston Seagull

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6/3-6 NJ Elks Convention ~Wildwoods Convention Center. Sat: noon. Parade begins 25th & Atlantic Ave. njelks.org

6/4-6 MOREYS PIERS SPRING BEACH JAM Wildwoods beach, Schellenger & Spencer 6/8-11 American Legion Convention & Pa-

rade Wildwoods Convention Center. NJAmericanLegion.org

6/14 AMERICAN FLAG DAY CEREMONY Veterans Monument, North Wildwood. 10am

6/14-19 Veterans of Foreign Wars and Ladies Auxiliary Convention & Parade. Wildwoods Convention Center. NJVFW.com 6/18 Nat’l Flip-Flop Day. Celebrate open toes and open hearts with a walk on the beach!

6/19-20 PigDog Beach Volleyball Classic Schellenger & beach, 6pm 6/20 CELEBRATE FATHER’S DAY.

“I love you Dad!” 6/24 Full Strawberry Moon

YOGA FLOW, burke Ave. Beach, 7:30PM

6/25 Wildwoods Boardwalk 1st Friday Night Fireworks Kick-Off – FREE 10pm from the Pine Ave. beach every Friday night through Sept 3rd. DOOWW.com 6/26-27 Cape Express Beach Blast Soccer

6/26 Grassy Sound Marina 14th Annual Flounder Tournament 6/27-7/1 YOUTH FOR CHRIST Heatwave. Wildwoods Convention Center & beach. 8am10pm 717.646.9900

Happy Summer Solstice “Shine like the Sun!” ~psalm 37:6

when the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky

June 20th at 11:31pm

15 hours, 17 minutes of daylight Low Tide: 10:19am High Tide: 5:01pm

JuLY PreView 7/2-4 Sports Card, Toys, Comics and Collectibles Show Wildwoods Convention Center.

7/4 “God Bless America” Celebrating the 245th year of American Independence 7/4 Independence Day Family Parade / Patriotic Pooch Parade Bill Henfey Park, 8th & Atlantic Ave., North Wildwood. 9am 7/9 Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival - Heather Road, Wildwood Crest. 9 am 7/9 Cape May County Lifeguard Championships - Rambler Rd, Wildwood Crest. 6 pm 7/9-11 NJ JEEP Beach Invasion -Wildwoods Beach south of the Convention Center 7/9-11 NJ State BBQ Championship & Anglesea Blues Festival -North Wildwood

7/10 Sidewalk Chalk Competition. Bill Henfey Park, North Wildwood. 9am

Save the Date! Monday 10am

July 12, 2021

at Hereford Lighthouse

PHOTO REUNION

Dr. Margaret Mace Babies Hattie Long’s Maternity & Babies Born at Home in Wildwood

Call (609) 522-2721

The most brilliant way to live is to always look for the light.

“Now is the season for bathing, whether in river or ocean. How delicious is a plunge in this thirsty weather!” – Eliza Cooke’s journal 1850 Sponsored by the Tourism & Development Commission

“WHILE YOU WERE AWAY. . “ “Long stormy spring-time, wet contentious April, winter chilling the lap of very May; but at length the season of summer does come.” ~Thomas Carlyle

Presents the

Summer 2021 4400 New Jersey Ave., Wildwood, NJ 08260 tel: (609) 522-2444 fax: (609) 523-2444 www.WildwoodNJ.org

Summer Events

Rockin’ at the Doo Wop

Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony

Ocean Ave. between Montgomery & Burk

in Wildwood by-the-Sea May 28

Official start of the 2021 Summer 12noon

International Kite Festival May 28 - 31

Wildwoods 33rd International Kite Festival on the Beach at and outside the Wildwoods Convention Center.

Memorial Day Services May 31

American Legion Post 184 4200 Atlantic Ave., Wildwood, 11am.

Restaurant Weeks

June 6 - 10 & Sept. 6 - 10 ChewWildwood.com

Joe Stamile Amphitheater at Fox Park *Every Sunday at 7:30pm FREE

2021 Schedule July 4

SENSATIONAL SOUL CRUISERS 60s, 70s, 80s Old School, Classic Soul, R&B, Motown & Disco

July 11 BIG BLEU

6-8 Piece Horn Band with Male/Female Vocals, playing the Best Mix of Motown Dance Rock

July 18

Friday Night Fireworks

CAPTAIN JACK TRIBUTE BAND Billy Joel

On the beach at Pine Ave., Wildwood 10pm FREE www.dooww.com

July 25 FRONTIERS

June 25 - Sept. 3

NJ Jeep Beach Invasion July 9 -11

Wildwoods Beach south of Convention Center.

Dutch Hoffman Memorial Lifeguard Races

July 30 Lincoln Ave. Beach, 6:30 pm

WILDWOOD

BEACH BASEBALL TOURNAMENT August 6 - 8, 13 - 15

Barefoot Country Music Fest New! August 19-22

Lincoln Ave. Beach, Wildwood

Wildwood Block Party and Music Fest Sept. 5 at Fox Park

Journey Tribute Band

August 1 Don’t Call Me Francis

10 Member, multi-instrumental Ensemble, many styles of Music

August 8

LISA ON TOUR & JERSEY HORNS Rock, R&B, Country, Dance Party

August 15

FOREVER TINA Tina Turner Tribute August 22 No Band this Week August 29 BOUNCE

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Ocean & Burk Aves., Wildwood. The only permanent replica in the Northeast. It is an exact, half size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C.

A bit of breezy chat about the island’s happenings from Labor Day 2020 through Memorial Day 2021 Ralph Waldo Emerson famously quoted, “Write it on your heart that every day is the best day of the year.” While the year 2020 may not have been our best year ever, we eased hopefully into 2021, with nothing but love in our hearts for all-things-Wildwood. A colorful fall led to a bright holiday season by the sea. Island improvements were underway, with ongoing construction and upgrades throughout. With Covid effecting so much of our planning, some projects are on schedule and some are not. Happily, our always-entertaining events were being planned with one thing in mind: Fun in the Sun. While-you-were safely social distancing at home, here’s a look at the noteworthy events that occurred While You Were Away…

CITY OF NORTH WILDWOOD ROAD IMPROVEMENTS CONTINUE

A section of 7th Avenue was reconstructed from Surf, halfway up to Central Avenue with an anticipated add-on for the reconstruction of Atlantic Avenue from 6th-8th Avenues. Partially grant funded through $185,000 NJDOT grant.

SEAWALL EXTENSION

Amended plans to reposition the metal sheets submitted to NJDEP and the Army Corps of Engineers – second changes to those submitted plans were also made based on comments provided by NJDEP/ USACE. Stone scour-rocks will be installed from 3rd-7th Avenue with the project starting likely in the Fall…+$6 million NJDEP funded.

BEACH PATROL BUILDING RENOVATIONS ~ Plumbing and drainage

improvements were made for the showers and bathrooms.

HEREFORD INLET PUMP STATION AND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS

Anticipated project start date for Fall 2021 +$10 million grant funded by NJDEP using HUD CDBG grant funds. Includes reconstruction of storm sewer system along Olde New Jersey Avenue, installation of a pumpstation and generator.

EMERGENCY SAND-BACK-PASS

While the City anxiously waits for the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to proceed with the Hereford Inlet to Cape May Inlet Shore Protection project (was supposed to occur in 2017), North Wildwood is yet again responsible for our own beach replenishment. The City moved approximately 345,000 cubic yards of sand (the largest amount to date) from Wildwood to replenish North Wildwood’s beach, predominantly being deposited between 5th-8th Avenues. During an annual Mayoral meeting via Zoom, Mayor Patrick Rosenello added with tongue-in-cheek... You see, we have this special agreement... each year we buy sand to make our beach and by the end of the summer we give it back:-) I suppose if we don’t laugh about it, we’ll cry. No matter how much we try, Mother Nature always wins. LOU BOOTH AMPHITHEATER AND HEREFORD INLET PARK ~ A $400,000 grant was awarded to support this project. Requiring NJDEP permit approval. The city is in the midst of reapplying for CAFRA to support this project.

HEREFORD INLET IMPROVEMENTS ANGLESEA SEAWALL REPAIR PROJECT

The endless construction at the Anglesea end of the Hereford Inlet seawall continues with its goal to protect essential infrastructure, businesses and homes from coastal storm damages. Agate Construction Co,. Inc. installed concrete block mattresses prior to rebuilding the north end of the seawall with more than 31,000 tons of stone fill and capstone.

GATEWAY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT

The city seeks to make special improvements along the road into town, including the Gateway Enhancement Project, highlighting a Gold Star Memorial, the first of its kind in the state. Also included in the project are landscaping improvemenets to Veterans Memorial Park, improvements to pedestrian safety Continues on next page. . .

Happy Summer 2021

“Today is the oldest you’ve ever been, yet the youngest you’ll ever be, so enjoy this day while it lasts.” ~ Tomas Ellsworth

North Wildwood Recreation & Tourism presents the Summer of 2021 North Wildwood, a place in the sun for family fun!

900 Central Ave, North Wildwood, NJ 08260 (609) 522-2955 Fax: (609) 522-0402 @North Wildwood Recreation and Tourism northwildwood.com

En oy

North Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony

northw

PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES, AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Monday, May 31, Veterans Memorial, Spruce & New York Aves. 10am

ildwood.com

Independence Day Family & Pooch Parade Sunday, July 4, 9th & Atlantic Aves. 9am

NJ State BBQ Championship & Anglesea Blues Festival

Fri., July 9 - Sun., July 11 Fri 4pm-11pm; Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-6pm, Olde New Jersey Ave., North Wildwood, njbbq.com

Sidewalk Chalk Competition

Sat., July 10 All ages. Bill Henfey Park. Contest 9am, Judging 10:45am, Prizes 11am

Miss North Wildwood Competition

Wednesday, July 14, Interviews 10am at North End American Grill Thursday, July 15, 6:30pm Crowning of Miss North Wildwood at Lou Booth Amphitheater, 2nd Ave.

Beschen-Callahan Memorial Lifeguard Races

Friday, July 16, 6pm 15 Avenue Beach, North Wildwood. 609.522.7500 th

Sun and Sand Police/Fire Survivors 5K Race & 1 Mile Walk

Saturday, July 17 Reg. 7:45am Race Begins 9am. - 1st & Olde New Jersey Ave.

Boogie Board Races

Saturday, July 17 Reg. 9am Contest Begins at 10am

on the beach at 15th Avenue, North Wildwood. Prizes!

Christmas in July with Santa Claus

Saturday, July 24 Begins at 1pm on the Beach, North Wildwood

44th Annual Around the Island Row

Tuesday, August 24 Begins at 7am on the Inlet Beach

Summer Camps

Buckets Basketball Camp NW Rec. Boys and Girls

July 5 - 9 9am-2pm Ages 9-15 yrs. July 19 - 23 9am-1pm Ages 6-9 yrs.

August 2 - 6 9am-2pm Ages 9-15 yrs.

North Wildwood Soccer Camp

Full Day 9am-3pm, Half Day 9am-12noon at Bill Henfey Park July 12 - 16, July 26 - July 30 Boys & Girls 5 to 15 yrs.

Kitchen Wizards Evening Cooking Camp

Igniting a love of the culinary arts in our young chefs Offering 10 different virtual classes at https://kitchenwizards.info/

New Logic Marine Science Camp

9am-2pm K-8 Outdoor Camp Experience June 28 - July 2, July 19 - 23 and Aug. 23 - 27

Concerts Under the Stars

at LOU BOOTH AMPITHEATER 2nd & Ocean Aves. FREE Concerts All Summer Long! All ShowsThursdays & Saturdays 8pm

July 1 “Disco Fever” Trammps Tribute July 3, 8, 10 No Show July 15 Lights Out Frankie Valli Tribute July 17 Discoteks July 22 The Fabulous Greaseband July 24 Real Diamond Neil Diamond Tribute July 29 Jimmy & the Parrots Jimmy Buffet Tribute July 31 Jesse Garron’s Elvis Tribute Aug. 5 52nd Street Billy Joel Tribute Aug. 7 Asbury Fever Springsteen Tribute Aug. 12 Light’s Out Jersey Beach Boys Aug. 14 Chicago 9 Chicago Tribute Aug. 19 Uptown Band Aug. 21 Village People Tribute Aug. 26 The Fabulous Greaseband Aug. 28 The Cameos Sept. 4 Beatlemania Sept. 11 Blue Notes Sept. 18 Soul Cruisers

The Best #1 Free Beaches!

North Wildwood’s Beach is 1.5 miles long and is guarded from the Inlet beach to 25th Ave. 22 Handicap Surf Chairs are available NWBP Headquarters 15th Ave. & Beach nwbp@northwildwood.com (609) 522-7500

Beach Patrol Programs

Every Tuesday & Thursday 8 sessions beginning Thursday June 24

Junior Lifeguards Grades 4 thru 9 NEX Guard Program Ages 14 - 15

The Surfing Beach is between 2nd & 4th Ave.

Save the Date!

September 10 - 12

51st Annual North Wildwood Rec Surf Fishing Tournament

Fri: 7am-5pm, Sat: 7am-5pm, Sun: 7am-11am

North Wildwood Allen Park

22nd & Delaware Ave. Playground, Tennis Courts, Hockey Rink, Basketball Court, Shuffleboard, Gazebos, and an observation pier overlooking the beautiful back bay wetlands area. Do n’t forget yo ur ! Safet y Eq uip me nt

North Wildwood Skate Park

23rd & Delaware Ave. OPEN EVERY DAY Free. * Weather Permitting * Helmets & pads required. No bikes or scooters.

Bill Henfey Park

8th & Central Ave. Playground, Basketball Court, Softball Field, Multi-Purpose Athletic Field

Playground on the Beach 16th & the Beach

5th Ave. Boat Ramp

5th & the Bay Seasonal Permits Available Kayak Storage Permits

Summer Basketball League K-2nd Beginner Co-Ed Play Thursday Nights 3rd-5th and 6th-8th Grades Co-Ed Play Monday and Friday Nights High School Boys Play Tuesday & Thursday Nights All Leagues $30 Fee

College/Men’s Competitive Play Sunday & Wednesday Nights Team Registration Only

Dance Creativity Class

6 week Sessions throughout the year Instructed by Jessica Donahue Visit northwildwood.com or call (609) 522-2955 for more info.

Summer Fitness Classes ~ 7 days a week at Lou Booth Amphitheater, 2nd & Ocean Ave. $5 per class ~ Beginning June 21st Sunset Meditation and Yoga every Monday and Wednesday night beginning June 7th. Time will vary according to sunset.

8 “The kindest word in all the world is the unkind word, unsaid.”

Summer in the Crest www.wildwoodcrest.org

OUTDOOR SUMMER FITNESS CLASSES

SUMMER LIVE MUSIC SERIES

DAILY BEACH PIER FITNESS CLASSES

Centennial Park, Fern Rd. and Ocean Ave.

AEROBICS, PILATES, INTERVAL TRAINING & MORE

DAILY June 26 through August 29 8:30 a.m.

Wildwood Crest Beach Pier at Heather Rd. Various one-hour fitness classes overlooking the ocean from the scenic beach pier. Fee required.

OUTDOOR ZUMBA

at Centennial Park, Fern Road & Ocean Ave.

SATURDAYS, May 29 - Sept. 4 MONDAYS, May 31 & June 21 - Sept. 6 8:30 a.m. DANCE AEROBICS

at Centennial Park, Fern Road & Ocean Ave.

WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS June 23 through Sept. 3 8:30 a.m.

YOGA ON THE BEACH

at Centennial Park, Fern Road & Ocean Ave.

WEDNESDAYS 7:30 p.m.

June 30 ~ Barefoot Bobby & Breakers (pop/rock) July 7 ~ Magical Mystery Band (Beatles tribute) July 14 ~ Dead Reckoning (Grateful Dead tribute) July 21 ~ The Mugshots (rock/pop hits) July 28 ~ Billy D. Light Trio (classic rock) Aug. 4 ~ Fuse Box (pop/rock/R&B) Aug. 11 ~ Abe Ovadia (jazz) Aug. 18 ~ Christopher Dean Band (R&B) Aug. 25 ~ Star Band (oldies/Doo Wop/pop) Sept. 1 ~ Fatt Mezz Band (classic rock/funk)

SATURDAYS 7:30 to 9:30p.m.

Centennial Park, Fern Rd. and Ocean Ave. June 26 ~ Parrotbeach (Jimmy Buffet tribute) July 3 ~ Legacy Band (dance/party hits) July 10 ~ Laura Lea & Tripp Fabulous (rock/dance) July 17 ~ Shot of Southern (country/southern rock) July 24 ~ Reign Band (dance/party/oldies hits) July 31~ The Benderz (pop/rock/dance) Aug. 7 ~ Big Bleu (Motown/dance/rock) Aug. 14 ~ Damn The Torpedoes (Tom Petty tribute) Aug. 21 ~ The Deck Band (pop/rock/dance) Aug. 28 ~ B Street Band (Springsteen tribute) Sept. 4~ Roundhouse Band (dance/party hits) Sept. 11 ~ ‘70s Flashback (‘70s pop/rock/dance) Sept. 18 ~ Kevin Miller’s Smashed (rock/pop/dance)

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS June 29 through August 26 7:00 p.m. SPECIAL 4TH of JULY SHOW

SUNDAY JULY 4TH 7:30 p.m.

CREST COASTAL COMB

DON’T CALL ME FRANCIS

MONDAYS, June 14 - Aug. 23 Rambler Rd. Beach 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

WILDWOOD CREST SUNSET CELEBRATIONS

FREE MARINE SCIENCE PROGRAM

SUMMER BASKETBALL REGISTRATION Leagues held late-June through mid-August.: Grades 3-5 co-ed, Grades 6-8 co-ed and high school boys Deadline to register is June 4.

PIER PLAYMATES DAY CAMP SESSION 1: WEDS. JUNE 23 - TUES. JULY 27 SESSION I1: WEDS. JULY 28 - TUES. AUG. 17 Daily activities camp for children in Grades 1 - 5.

MONDAYS July 5 through August 23 7:30 in July, 7pm in August

Sunset Lake, Louisville and New Jeresey Aves. Family entertainment at sunset overlooking beautiful Sunset lake. Live music, street performers, FREE family photos, children’s activities and more.

LIVE MUSIC AT SUNSET LAKE

THURSDAYS July 1 through August 26 7:30 in July, 7pm in August Various artists performing in Sunset Lake Gazebo

~Anon.

WILDWOOD

CREST

IT’S BETTER IN THE CREST

RECREATION & TOURISM

Presents the Summer of 2021

WILDWOOD CREST RECREATION DEPT.

5800 Ocean Ave. Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 (609) 523-0202 Info Center: (609) 522-0221 Joseph Von Savage Memorial Pool (609) 522-0084 Wildwood Crest Tennis Courts

Summer Kick-off Concert Sunday, May 30th 7:30pm at Centennial Park, Fern Road & Ocean Ave. The ChatterBand

Cape May County Lifeguard Championships Friday, July 9th Rambler Rd. Beach, 6pm

9th Annual Crest Sand Sculpting Festival Friday July 9th Heather Rd. Beach 9am-2pm

Christmas in JulyFestival

Saturday, July 24th at Sunset Lake 6-9PM Christmas themed festival with visit from Santa. Boat Parade

Crest Sunset Lake Food TruckFest

Sunday, July 11th & 25th & August 8th 4-9PM, Louisville & NJ Ave.

Award-winning Food Trucks, crafters, family entertainment , FREE Movie screening

Wildwood Crest 5K Beach Run Saturday, July 31st, 8:30AM

Beginning and ending at the Wildwood Crest Beach Pier

National Night Out

Tuesday, August 3rd, Centennial Park 5:30PM - 8:30PM Fun for the whole family!

9/11 Memorial Services

Saturday, 9/11, Miami & New Jersey Ave.

Seafarers Celebration on Sunset Lake Saturday, Sept. 25th

9am-8pm Street festival along Sunset Lake

Crest Best Run Fest featuring the Crest Best 10-Miler Saturday, Oct. 9th - Sunday Oct. 10th

Fall Borough-Wide Yard Sale Saturday, Oct. 2nd, 8am - 4pm

Happy Summer 2021

“Today is a wonderful day! I’ve never seen this one before.” ~Maya

“Eyes that look at the world through a lens of wonder, find those things that make it wonder~full.”

“ W ILDWOOD - A NEW SEASON“ along NJ Ave from the triangle intersection to 5th Ave. The city is applying for $1.5 million in Cape May County Open Space funds as well as submitting a Small Cities Grant application for $450 thousand. The local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5941 plan to contribute funds particularly towards the Gold Star Memorial. This project is slated to begin in the Fall.

Mayor Byron along with Commissioners Mikulski and Fitzsimons are pleased with the much-needed roadway improvements that will alleviate drainage issues which have long plagued the neighborhoods along Lake Road, Susquehanna Avenue, Hand Avenue, Bennett Avenue and Hildreth Avenue.

WILDWOOD CITY ~ COMMUNITY

million dollar project began with a 15M grant from NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection to include a new Pump Station at Leaming Ave. beach. The project’s main priority to reduce flooding by collecting side street storm water from east of Pacific Avenue with installation of a water pump system has been successful. A new pipe from Cresse to Spicer Avenue on Ocean Avenue was installed, allowing for finishing touches to be completed by Memorial Day weekend.

PACIFIC AVENUE PARTICIPATION In October 2020, Cape May County Freeholder Will Morey and Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron held the 4th stakeholder meeting, giving Wildwood residents, second-homeowners and business owners the opportunity to contribute their ideas to the Pacific Avenue Redevelopment Project. Michael Sullivan, ASLA, AICP from the planning firm Clarke Caton Hintz introduced a preliminary analysis of Pacific Avenue while Nassau Capital Advisor Robert Powell offered a Market Analysis, touching on the potential the improvements might generate, including residential growth and more customers for the Pacific Avenue business commuByron “This nity. According to Mayor Byron, is an opportunity to revitalize a beloved but neglected part of our community with only 20% cost to the City and 80% cost to the County.” Although the mayor is pleased overall with the “positive vibes” this has created, he is hoping that the speed-bump which has paused the demolition for the downtown rebuild due to permit issues, is resolved quickly.

ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS AND COMPLETION PUMP STATION: SPRING 2022

The master plan to “rebuild Wildwood from the ground up,” as stated by Troiano continues former Mayor Ernie Troiano, on with the new government with the majority of the project consisting of repaving streets, replacing sidewalks and curbs and renovating the foundation, of which the majority of underground pipes have not been replaced since the turn of the 20th century. The 202 0-21 phase involved Hildreth and Lake Avenues, with the infrastructure work coinciding with Cape May County’s Pump Station project.

PACIFIC AVENUE FLOOD RESILIENCY PROJECT: In the fall of 2019, a 24

The idea of a Gateway from the Boardwalk to Pacific Ave. was featured in our While You Were Away column back in 2007. It is back on the table as the US Department of Agriculture is investing $38,000 to prepare design concepts for a pedestrian walkway from the Boardwalk Boardwalk SID is takto Pacific Avenue. Boardwalk ing the lead while working with the City of Wildwood on this initiative.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS & HISTORIC HOLLY BEACH PARK The City of Wildwood Parks & Recreation and Wildwood Fire Department sponsored the first annual Holiday Light Show and Island-wide House Decorating Contest. With much success, 44 homes in Wildwood, North Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, and West Wildwood participated. The community welcomed year-round residents and visitors to enjoy this new drive-around-the-island holiday event, ending with a spectacular Light Show at Holly Beach Park every half-hour on Friday & Saturday nights. The newly renovated Holly Beach Park is located at 123 E. Andrews Avenue. Sure to be a Wildwoods tradition, Holly Beach Park Holiday Light Show will run from Thanksgiving thru New Year’s this year. Anyone wishing to enter their home in the contest can register at: https://cityofwildwood.recdesk.com or call (609)522-5837. Continues on next page. . .

~Anon.

Authentically Irish {except for the fact that we’re in North Wildwood}

Anglesea Pub Voted Best Irish Pub in NJ!

utside O & e d i s In Dining!

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10 “Give us Lord, a bit o’ sun, a bit o’ work and a bit o’ fun. Give us all in the struggle and sputter, Our daily bread and a bit o’ butter.”

CURRAN’S

great drinks! great food! great friends! Where Olde & New Meet

~An irish blessing

“WHILE YOU WERE AWAY. . “ After a year of the ongoing pandemic,some residents kept their lights glowing in the winter darkness, bringing much needed light and hope.

WILDWOOD BOARDWALK REPAIRS c. 1910

Est. 2021

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Governor Murphy first met with Byron in April 2020 following a wind storm that uplifted sections of the boardwalk causing nearly $400,000 in damage. The governor acknowledged at the time that the boardwalk was a key asset to the city and a uniquely important attraction to the Jersey shore. In February 2021, Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron announced that Murphy contacted him confirming that the 2021 state budget will include $4 million for boardwalk repairs. The city engineers recently concluded a report updating the boardwalk’s deficiencies in addition to outlining a five-year program to rehabilitate the aging structure. The program prioritizes the repairs to 15 of the most deteriorated and heavily used blocks on the boardwalk, including most of its business district. The blocks from 26th street to Oak Avenue and Lincoln to Montgomery are estimated to cost an annual $3.9 million for the five-year period. Byron said, “The $4 million in state funds will jumpstart our rehab program by paying for 2 to 3 blocks in most urgent need of repairs.” The city believes a rehabilitation program is the most practical and affordable approach to sufficiently upgrade the boardwalk and keep it operational for visitors, businesses and safety vehicles for years to come.

BOROUGH OF WILDWOOD CREST Sunrise Park Renovations ~ A three-blocklong beachfront park located between Lotus and Rambler Roads in Wildwood Crest, has been refurbished by means of a grant from the county’s Open Space Board. Revised plans included additional parking in a lot along Beach Avenue. Sunrise Park contains a gazebo and a small playground, and new this year is another playground for older kids, foot showers, seating areas, bike racks and stroller parking areas, an outdoor gym and the new Sunrise Splash featuring an interactive, programmable water feature as a Splash Pad. A big welcome to Splash Park and Fitness Station! Scoop Taylor playground is currently being upgraded with new ADA acces-

sible equipment. All paid for with a DCA grant. Completion date is June 2021.

STORM HITS LITTLE LEAGUE FIELD

Mayor Don Cabrera launched a fundraiser to help rebuild the Greater Wildwood Little League concession stand and replace equipment that was damaged in a storm last August.

CREST BEACH PATHS MAY BE THE BEST ~ The wooden walkways at all

beach entrances in the borough will be extended by approximately 120 feet each, according to Wildwood Crest Mayor Don Cabrera. Cabrera The wooden beach walkway extensions should be in place by mid June. Existing beach walkways that may be old and worn will also be replaced.

“The length of the borough’s beaches has certainly proven to be an asset when it comes to storm surge protection, but it has also presented our many residents and visitors with additional challenges in traveling on and off our world-class beach,” Mayor Cabrera said. “These extensions are being constructed in response to requests and suggestions by our residents and visitors. We anticipate that the extension of the beach walkways will help ease the burden of traveling on and off our beach.” STREET SIGN AUCTION The Borough of Wildwood Crest offered residents of the borough an opportunity to purchase old public street signs. Sales of signs were awarded through a lottery drawing. Signs not sold during the lottery drawing process are available to the public on a first-come, firstserved basis. Proceeds from all sales of old public street signs are being dedicated to the preservation of Wildwood Crest historical artifacts.

WEST WILDWOOD WORK

In December 2020, a 4-mile project to replace the lines running from Middle Township along the route of a previous railroad into West Wildwood was underway, with the objective of improving the durability of the power grid. The wooden power lines and steel towers running across Grassy Sound Island were replaced with new steel poles that are able to withstand storms and winds of up to 120 mph, resulting in fewer power outages. Continues on next page. . .

Have Fun in the Sun!

“Life is a lot like JAZZ. . . it’s better when you improvise.”

2Ye3 ars

~ George Gershwin

BBQ & BLUES NJ STATE BBQ CHAMPIONSHIP

• Championship Barbeque Competitors • Live Cooking Demonstrations

• $10,000 in Prizes • Specialty Vendors

ANGLESEA BLUES FESTIVAL FRIDAY JULY 9TH The Outcrops 4-7 PM Billy The Kid & The Regulators 7:30 - 10:30 PM

SATURDAY JULY 10TH Looseleaf 11 AM-1 PM Bluestime 1:30 -3:30 PM The Supra/Ayers Band 4-7 PM Rollin ‘N’ Tumblin 7:30-10:30 PM

SUNDAY JULY 11TH The BC Combo 11 AM-4:30 PM

N E W J E R S E Y S TAT E B A R B E C U E C H A M P I O N S H I P AWA R D S S u n d a y 4 : 3 0 p m

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Friday 4pm-11pm Sat 10am-11pm Sun 10am-6pm Along Olde New Jersey Ave. in North Wildwood Fun for ire t n E e h t ! Family

Proceeds Benefit the Anglesea Volunteer Fire Co. Scholarships & More

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12 “The trouble with talking too fast is you may say something you haven’t thought of yet.” ~Ann Landers

“ W ILDWOOD - A NEW SEASON“ THE PRICE OF SUNBATHING

Due to ever-increasing expenses, including Boardwalk repairs and major beach renovations, discussions are in the early stages in Wildwood, North Wildwood and Wildwood Crest to require beach tags beginning in 2022. Proceeds are meant to cover the expense of beach maintenance (not offset property taxes or support other priorities). Projects have been put on hold due to funding beach replenishment, with the mayors of each town looking for funding sources without having to burden local property owners when millions of people use the beaches. The mayors are considering all their options, evaluating property owners’ support while also looking at tourism taxes and other alternatives. There is talk of putting the topic on the ballot for taxpayers to decide.

INSIDE & OUTSIDE DINING

WHILE YOU WERE AWAY WEATHER REPORT

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17TH AVE. NORTH WILDWOOD Between N.J. & Central Aves.

As always, the weather in our coastal town provided more ups and downs than the Great Nor’easter Roller Coaster! As we begin with Labor Day 2020, it was reminiscent of the old days when the town would “roll up the sidewalks.” Although September’s weather was ideal, and many people remained at their summer homes, mostly due to Covid, many businesses closed their doors.

Sept. 19 ~ Despite it being approximately 800 miles off shore, Hurricane Teddy created a powerful tidal surge, with waves barreling over the Seawall from 2nd to 7th, taking out the ramps and the beach again... Did you ever see a sunny storm? Oct. 29-30 ~ Storm remnants from Hurricane Zeda caused major beach erosion. Nov. 3 ~ 30mph winds appropriately greeted Election Day followed by mild weather…the proverbial calm after the storm. Nov. 7-9 ~ We experienced Indian Summer, with temperatures soaring into the 70s, as hundreds of beachgoers flocked to the sea for the last of fun in the sun! Nov. 25-29 ~ Thanksgiving Weekend was more like spring (including a little rain on Thanksgiving morning). Crowds arrived for the Wildwoods Downtown Holiday Shopping Village. Village Business was booming! Look for its return this year! Dec. 4-5 ~ Mild weather was in store for the Hereford Tree Lighting Ceremony followed by the annual Wildwood Jaycees Parade.

All was Calm & Mild for hanging Christmas lights. More homes than ever were decorated, casting an extra cheerful glow over the island, bringing muchneeded comfort to our souls. Dec. 16-17 ~ Storm Gail left major beach erosion in her wake. Dec. 21 Winter Solstice. On the darkest night, the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn formed the Christmas Star (amazing that this would happen in the year 2020 after 800 years, God’s work clearly in place!) January was mild up until its final days when Old Man Winter ushered in with gale force winds and wind chills in the teens. February welcomed Winter Storm Orlena. Although it was a stormy couple of weeks, we didn’t accumulate more than an inch of snow. Temperatures were frigid for the first two weeks. Valentine’s Day/President’s Day long weekend brought long lines on the boardwalk for the opening of Sam’s Pizza. Sadly, the sun hadn’t shown its Pizza face in nearly a week. March came in like the proverbial Lion, with all the elements of a lingering winter… high winds, rain, freezing wind chills… It also went out with a roar... April fooled us all with its frigid wind chills and snow flurries for Easter weekend, however a lovely Easter Sunday brought out many boardwalk strollers after church services let out. April showers brought May flowers! And The SUN!

IT’S A WRAP!

“Friends, sun, sand and sea, that sounds like a summer to me.” With the Summer of 2021 moments away, we here at The Sun are looking forward to all of the above! Our summer goal is Simple: to enjoy every sandy, sunny, seaside moment with you, our fellow summer lovers. We have the most creative, culinary delights on every corner of the island to keep us healthy, the Seawall to keep us fit and the picturesque scenery to make every day feel like heaven on earth. We wish you your own fun-filled season and look forward to a summer overflowing with sun, surf and endless stories best shared by the sea…

Compiled & reported over the long winter months by Dorothy Kulisek and Meg Corcoran.

Happy Summer 2021

“If something goes without saying, let it.” ~Anon.

“WHILE YOU WERE AWAY. . “

New and Old Business

by Al Alven, the ‘Director of fun’ from WW365 There’s an old adage - practically cliche at this point - about the Wildwoods “coming back to life” each spring. Yet, there’s nothing typical about this year’s reawakening, which actually feels more like a revival. Last summer, while it seemed as if the entire world had been turned upside down, the local business community planted its collective feet in the sand and made it work. Though much uncertainty remains, and challenges persist in the forms of ongong restrictions and a severe workforce shortage, a vastly more positive and optimistic vibe has defined the approach to the 2021 season. Officials have pointed to unprecedented surges in real estate sales and early vacation bookings. All over the island, construction and important public works projects persist. Perhaps most surprising - new businesses abound! While the past year has not been without casualty, investor confidence in Five Mile Beach appears to be growing, as we continue to emerge from the grips of the pandemic... CRESTIN’ THE WAVE We start this year down in Wildwood Crest, where a series of major projects that will bring big improvements to the borough are underway. A recentlycompleted renovation of Sunrise Park at Ocean & Rambler Avenues includes the addition of new playground equipment, a fitness area and a splash pad. In-process and future works to keep an eye on include a multi-purpose community center at the site of the former borough library at Wisteria Road, an extension and renovation of the iconic fishing pier at Heather Road and the eventual revitalization of the proposed downtown business district, along New Jersey Avenue between Wisteria and Heather Roads. A new entry within that zone is Barry’s Buns, at 6107 New Jersey Avenue. The Buns husband-and-wife team of Joel and

Jen Singer have expanded from their original bakery in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia with a delectable menu of goodies, highlighted by their signature sticky buns. The Crest location will also feature Nitro Coffee and made-to-order breakfast sandwiches.

MORE ‘WELCOME’ CHANGES

Last summer saw the official rededication of the Rio Grande Boulevard entranceway in Wildwood, following the completion of roadwork, enhanced lighting and signage installation, and specialized landscaping. The new pump station is now operational and several structures have been cleared to make way for future construction. Adding to the “Doo Wop” stylings of the welcome corridor will be a new Sinclair gas station and convenience store, complete with retro design featuring the brand’s signature dinosaur. This will essentially take the place of the recently-demolished Riggins Gas Station at 325 Rio Grande Avenue. Closer to the foot of the George Redding Bridge, Philadelphia restaurateur Santorini, Florian Furxhiu plans to open Santorini a Mediterranean-themed concept, at the former home of Backfin Blues Bar & Grill. It should be noted that persistent rumors of forthcoming “Super” Wawa on Rio Grande Avenue remains just that - rumors. Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron has confirmed that there are no official plans for such an entry, and that the current “Doo Wop” Wawa on the south side of the boulevard will continue to operate as is (complete with newly refurbished signage).

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT ALL SUMMER LONG

Tacos & Tequila Restaurant & Bar

IN THE HEART OF TOWN

Each year, it seems, we are reminded that no institution lasts forever. Sadly, the iconic Big Blue Sightseer sailed its final voyage last August, and the view from Ottens Harbor will never be the same. Captain Chuck Schumann made the announcement official, citing the economic effect of the COVID-19 panRead on! Continues on next page. . .

Mon - Fri 3pm-3am Sat - Sun 12pm-3am

Olde New Jersey Ave. in North Wildwood 609.522.0104

14 “My therapist told me the way to achieve true inner peace is to finish what I start. So far I’ve finished 2 bags of M&Ms and an icecream cone. I feel better already.” -- Dave Barry

“WHILE YOU WERE AWAY. . “

New and Old Business

by Al Alven, the ‘Director of fun’ from WW365

•Soft Serve •Hand-Dipped •Specialty Sundaes •Specialty Fluringos •Belgian Waffles

& Ice Cream •Milk Shakes •Banana Splits •Floats 2 LIZZY’S LOCATIONS •Gelatis 1801 New Jersey Ave. North Wildwood •Water Ice 6305 New Jersey Ave. Wildwood Crest

Open Weekends 8am-1pm ( ‘til June 14th)

Located in West Wildwood at C Marina between Avenues P & Q

Look! It’s the same ‘kid-magnet’ guy on the front cover! Walk, Bike, Paddle, Kayak or Boat...

come see us at The

dockside

DOWNTOWN HAPPENINGS

WILDWOOD & OCEAN AVE. WILDWOOD, NJ

609-729-1555

1-800-4-LAURAS

Since 1926

demic, in a Facebook post in October. Schumann noted that the Sightseer had operated for 67 seasons, the first 25 with Captain Otto Stocker at the helm. Orange Moose Golf Carts has set up shop at 3200 Park Boulevard. In addition to its fleet of golf carts, the store will rent and sell Pedego Electric Bikes. Sensing a trend toward takeout and delivery services, Joseph Carpenter took a third of his dining space at The Wild Burrito and converted it into The Boneless Bird late last year. The two entities are operating simultaneously this season, with the latter specializing in chicken sandwich takeout at the corner of Ocean & Youngs Avenues. Classic family dining is back in fashion Kitchen just steps off at Nan & Pop’s Kitchen, the Boardwalk at the northeast corner of Ocean & Wildwood Avenues (the Shack longtime home of the Lobster Shack). Owners Christy & Jasen Mitchell have created a unique experience that transports guests back to a simpler time once they walk through the doors - but we don’t want to give away too much! Nan & Pop’s Kitchen serves up “comfy, American cuisine” and will be CLOSED on Sundays.

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the sun

In early March, the City of Wildwood revealed it’s Pacific Avenue Development Plan, Plan the goal of which is to support existing residents and businesses along the downtown corridor while attracting new investment in the area. Shortly after, an unexpected CAFRA permit issue arose, forcing a delay on several large-scale projects. These include already-approved redevelopment ventures by PhiladelphiaCapital including “100 E. based BG Capital, Magnolia” project, which will eventually see 38 residential units built on the former site of St. Anne’s/Cape Trinity School, and the Residences on Pacific, a 28,000 square foot residential complex with street-level commercial units on the east side of the 3600 block of Pacific Avenue.

The latter project will take the place M.T. of a block of former businesses (M.T. Bottle, 2nd Street Annie’s and Fairview Cafe) which cannot be demolished Cafe until the CAFRA situation is resolved. BG Capital has also acquired the west side of the 3800 block of Pacific, which includes the former VFW Post 3509 building. The old Garfield’s Restaurant at the other end of the block is the new bar/nightspot home of The Wood bar/nightspot. A few blocks north, across from Byrne Plaza, 5 Mile Grind takes over for Scoop The Cobucci family The Wild Scoop. will operate the combination coffee bar and ice cream parlor, with offerings from New Jersey-based partners Revolution Coffee Roasters (Collingswood) and Evermore Coffee Roasters (Burlington). The retail chain Krispy Krunchy Chicken has moved into the former home of Center City Video Outlet at 3115 Pacific Avenue, an expansion of the location in Cape May Court house that opened last year (along with neighboring Pizza Heaven). Sure to be a hit with historians and Legends music lovers is Wildwood Legends, at 3010 Pacific Avenue. Owned and Mattera the operated daily by Mike Mattera, store features hundreds of originallydesigned posters showcasing a diverse roster of performers who have played the Wildwoods from the 1930’s to today. Mugs, buttons and other items are being added regularly, with custom orders also available. The popular One Fish, Two Fish Restaurant moved to 3001 Pacific Avenue, taking over the building occupied by Coastal Prime last summer, and forMia’s. It’s former location, 5209 merly Mia’s Duffer’s), is Pacific (directly across from Duffer’s Kitchen as entrethe new home of Tara Kitchen, preneur Chef Aneesa Waheed brings Moroccan cuisine to the Wildwoods for the first time.

ON THE NORTH END

Working our way up into North WildStore a wood, we find That Shore Store,

Have Fun in the Sun!

“Give us this day, God, what we need.” #dailybread ~Matt. 6:11

“WHILE YOU WERE AWAY. . “

OPEN DAILY from 7:30am

New and Old Business

Large Screen TVs Inside & Out

by Al Alven, the ‘Director of fun’ from WW365 new boutique gift store specializing in unique items at 1707 New Jersey Avenue. Moving in next door is Rios Construction, at the former location of Jack McCartney’s North Wildwood Shirt Shop. Shop The newly branded Island Surf Shop has moved into new digs, along with Renee McCartney’s Shore Couture, at 200 New Jersey Avenue. Couture After a two-year wait, 5 Girls Sandwich Shop has opened at 2010 New Jersey Avenue, taking over the former Blitz’s Market. Next door, Sun Rey’s Beach Market Rentals offers a wide variety of rental options, including golf carts, beach chairs and carts. Trio, a gastro eatery offering “American Trio American cuisine with a global flair” has arrived at the former home of the Amish Market at 7th & New Jersey. Owners Debbie & Paul Gioquindo decided to relocate from Stone Harbor, where they had operated Kitchen 330 since 2018. They are joined by executive chef Gus Zimmerman, who is locally renowned Zimmerman for his farm-to-table stylings. A major change in the Olde New Jersey bar/entertainment district sees The Establishment at 100 move out, with Curran’s Irish Inn taking over. This marks owner Gerry Curran’s first expansion outside of Pennsylvania. He opened his popular bar in Northeast Philly’s Tacony neighborhood (just off of I-95) in 2000, followed by a second location in Bensalem in 2007. Across the street, Keenan’s Irish Pub has introduced the newest addition to its entertainment complex, The Neighborhood Grille. Grille The open space eatery and bar will take the place of the Cabana Grille at the corner of Olde New Jersey & Chestnut Avenues. A unique partnership with John’s Water Ice of South Philly will offer guests Water Ice Martinis (sure to be a hit this summer).

THE BOARDWALK SHUFFLE

The most noticeable change on the Boardwalk this summer is the transformation of Stewart’s Root Beer into Papi’s Tacos, Tacos at Magnolia Avenue. The BYOB taco bar serves up a full menu of authentic Mexican cuisine, while

continuing to offer beach and ocean views (and a prime vantage point for Friday Night Fireworks). After its inaugural season at 3012 Boardwalk, Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls has moved to 2701 Boardwalk, at the base of Hunt’s Pier, where it has taken over for the departed Johnson’s Popcorn. Moving into Quincy’s previPopcorn ous spot is the Great American Lobster Roll Co. Big changes are in the works at the 2000 block of the Boardwalk in North Wildwood, which was acquired by New Jersey LLC earlier this year for $2.9 million. Plans for the future of the block, which sits adjacent to Seaport Pier, remain under wraps. In the meantime, keep an eye out for businesses to fill the vacated units this summer. Of the handful of businesses on the block, only 3 Brothers Pizza has returned for the 2021 season. Owner Guy Piccitto has stated that he plans to remain in the location for years to come. Seaport Beach Outlet and Shore Delights Ice Cream have moved out, while The Fractured Prune has jumped to a larger location one block south. Ed’s Funcade is also out, but continues into their 45th year of business operating two Boardwalk locations, at 23rd Avenue and Lincoln Avenue. Last summer saw the return of Little Nicky’s Pizza and Pompeo’s to the north end of the Boardwalk, both under new ownership. Improvements at these iconic locations continue, with Pompeo’s adding Cafe Mila, Mila featuring Lavazza Coffee, Coffee in addition to a selection of hot and iced drinks, juices and fruit loaded smoothies. The start of another season is always a time of great anticipation in the Wildwoods. In addition to all that is new, the island’s annual reawakening summons that wondrous mix of timeless nostalgia and memory-making magic WW365 fervently CountsDown to. As you stroll the boards or walk through town this summer, keep in mind that all was once fresh and unfamiliar; and the best time to begin a new tradition is NOW. It’s a wrap!!

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16 “It’s a smile, it’s a kiss, it’s a sip of wine ... it’s summertime!” ~Kenny Chesney

Live Entertainment Sindi Raymond Band Saturdays The Juliano Brothers Wednesdays & Fridays

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Surfside West wishes you all a safe & happy summer

Thank you for your vote!

BY JOSEPH RUSSO “Russo’s at Ramblantic” by Dorothy Kulisek

B ack

in 2005 I wrote a story called ‘WILDWOOD 2010.’ It was at the beginning of the condo boom, when developers recognized an untapped potential and started changing the face of the island forever. It was a tongue-in-cheek piece in which I depicted Wildwood as a gated community, where only the privileged were allowed. It was all in good fun. It’s not so funny anymore. In the Winter of 2021, the wrecking ball came a-callin’ for the house I grew up in, on the corner of Rambler Road and Atlantic Avenue in Wildwood Crest. It was the last period of the last sentence in the final chapter of the story of my parents. My grandparents bought them two lots across the street from the Church of The Assumption (at my grandmother’s insistence) as a wedding gift in 1955. Will Morey built them a sturdy brick home and they raised five children and lived there for 60 years. The song ‘Our House’ by Madness always reminded me of “Ramblantic,” (which is what our kids called it). There was always something happening, it was usually quite

loud, and a mess was definitely not allowed. People dropped in all the time. A friend of my mother’s once told her that she liked to come over when she was bored. I could fill an entire issue with stories, but I’ll share a special one: The 5th Dimension once ate dinner at our house. In 1968 my stepbrother, Gerry Petriccione, managed the motel where they were staying. He bragged to them about what a good cook my mother was. And they, perhaps craving a home-cooked meal, accepted a dinner invitation. When everyone arrived, we opened the dining room windows and blasted ‘Up, Up, and Away’ from our console stereo. Billy Davis, Jr., Marilyn McCoo, and the other members stayed and chatted with us for the rest of the day. It was where I learned what the phrase ‘surrey down’ meant (thanks to Billy). Now Mom and Dad are gone and we all have our own lives. The house has served her purpose. When she was sold in February, we all knew change was coming, that the condo boom was going to reach down to our part of town. My brother said, “It should just be a one-family house,” and it will be. This is the next phase in the evolution of our island. I am grateful for the organizations like The Doo-Wop Preservation League for keeping parts of our heritage intact, but people are still going to come here, attracted by the beaches and the ambiance, and they are going to invest in the future. So, I want to send this message out to whoever occupies the corner lot at 7200 Atlantic Avenue: Have a fine time, have a happy time, just like we did. Keep her spirit alive.

Happy Summer 2021

When you don’t see the sun, be the sunshine

“Our first teacher is our own heart.” – American Indian Proverb, Cheyenne

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ANALEMMATIC SUNDIAL

November 19, 2020 Wildwood, NJ The idea of an outdoor learning center was first birthed when Covid-19 kept Karen Morey from going to school to teach her little students at Glenwood Avenue Elementary School. SOLCOW (Socratic Outdoor Learning Center of Wildwood), located at the park on New York Avenue and West Poplar Avenue, offers outdoor learning for students ages six to 12 years old. The shared venture includes Jack and Karen Morey of Morey’s Piers and Resorts alongside the City of Wildwood and numerous personal donors. The singular ingredients of the park incorporate math, science and philosophy in a modern style, along with supporting recycling and sustainability. It also includes elements of efficiency and adaptive recycling

by using objects in various ways. Some of the components of the park are the Sundial, the Stage and the Entrances. During the late November gathering Mayor Pete Byron and Commissioners Fitzsimons and Mikulski thanked the many sponsors, including graduates and local businesses, for giving Wildwood students and residents something to celebrate during the pandemic, while commemorating their grand opening. The event was also attended by students, teachers and administrators who initially requested the park for their learning center. A 30-year Time Capsule featuring contributions from the city, schools and residents highlighting the historic year of 2020 will be opened in 2050.

Create tradition. Build your family legacy.

Nick Giuffre

Realtor® — nick.giuffre@compass.com M 609.224.3837 O 856.214.2639 Nicholas Giuffre is a Real Estate Salesperson affiliated with Compass RE. Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker and abides by equal housing opportunities laws. COMPASS RE 129 Chester Ave, Moorestown, NJ 08057

18 “Trust me friend, 100 years goes faster than you think.” ~Kenny Chesney

The Four Eldoradians

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12 Years

The Eldorado Hotel & Restaurant c. 1920s - 1955

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today this is the housing development next to wawa Social media has a wonderful way of keeping us connected while inspiring the best memories. Thanks to the Ed Zaberers story published in the Summer ‘20 issue of The Sun, a photo of the old Eldorado caught the attention of follower Maureen Czabas, sparking a memory of her dear grandfather Ed Andres, who performed at the Eldorado (purchased by Zaberer in 1955) with the musical act the Four Eldoradians.

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The Eldorado became Zaberer’s

Since memories, naturally, need to be shared, the following day I received these classic photos, which I then passed on to John Harkins since the Zaberer’s story was based on his memories of growing up close to the hotel/ restaurant. John shared, “Back in the days before air conditioning, music from the Eldorado heralded summer’s arrival each year. With all windows open to welcome the seabreezes, the music in the air was an integral part of summer for the neighborhoods in Olde Anglesea…The Eldorado was memorable until Zaberer’s Anglesea Inn,” which, according to John, “was the best use of this property in the last 100 years. Everything else pales in comparison to Ed & Charlie’s wonderful restaurant idea.” A big thank you to Maureen Czabas for sharing this hidden glimpse into Wildwood’s past. Judging by the photos, we can only imagine how much fun and entertaining her grandfather and his friends must’ve been and happily welcome them into our ever-growing collection of Wildwood by the Sea stories…

Happy Summer 2021

“The summer wind, came blowin’ in from across the sea. It lingered there to touch your hair and walk with me...”

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20 “On the ocean of life let your mind be the ship and your heart be the compass.” ~James David Manning

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New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail A joining together the Jersey shore areas with Coastal Habitat, Maritime Heritage, and Wildlife Migration

The New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Trai is not really a trail, it is a route designed to be leisurely seen by auto for the benefit of the public to provide education, understanding, and enjoyment of natural, maritime, and cultural sites of the coastal area of New Jersey. The concept is to join together the Jersey shore areas into five regions with three major themes; Coastal Habitat, Maritime Heritage, and Wildlife Migration. The trail hugs the coastline of New Jersey and runs nearly 300 miles, being divided into regions from Sandy Hook along New York Harbor, south to Barnegat Bay, the Absecon, the Cape May, and the Delsea Region along Delaware Bay. You will be able to meander along the area east of the Garden State Parkway from the Raritan Bay south to the area north and west of Cape May and south of Route 49 to the vicinity of Deepwater. The trail includes many New Jersey state parks and facilities with all of the Trail destinations loosely owned and operated by other agencies and organizations. Since September 30, 2011, as a result of a sunset clause, the National Park Service is no longer the legislative authority to be involved in the management of the Trail. At this time there is no single authority responsible for the management of the trail, although there are legislative efforts to reinstate the NPS as the legislative authority. Although The New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route is designed for vehicular touring, it connects areas of interest to hikers. In addition to the five themes, The Coastal Heritage Trail is divided into five regions, linked by the common heritage of life on the Jersey Shore and the Raritan and Delaware bays. From your vehicle, The Coastal Trail will take you along a fascinating journey past lighthouses, beautiful sandy beaches and

dunes, fishing villages, reclaimed marshes with wildlife, and cranberry bogs. Along the route of the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail, the visitor will experience fresh water creeks and tidal marshes that can be ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Rentals are available from local outfitters. There are also many bike routes along the New Jersey Coastal Trail. Within the Maritime heritage you can experience the history of trade, navigation, and coastal defenses. The ocean, bays, rivers, and tributaries were key to the fishing industry, boat building and other maritime activities. Lighthouses were erected as maritime navigational aids to warn mariners of hazards to their ships and prevent loss of crew and cargo. Within the Wildlife migration, New Jersey’s coastal regions provide critical habitat for many migrating species in the Western Hemisphere. The New Jersey coast is a critical route for the migration of many birds, marine animals, and insects. Dolphins, whales, seals, fish, hawks, osprey, eagles, warblers, and butterflies are many of the animals that nurture on New Jersey’s coastal habitats. The visitor learn about the habitats that serve as seasonal refuges for the migrating species. Here is what you can experience in one of the five coastal heritage trail regions. The Cape May Region’s highlights include the Wildwoods with the best white, powdery sand beaches along the east coast. The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is Wildwood’s oldest structure on the barrier island built in 1874. Stop by the completely restored landmark and learn more about its fascinating history and make sure to stroll the grounds in the award-winning Victorian gardens, with a boardwalk leading to the North Wildwood Seawall overlooking Hereford Inlet. Afterwards, there are many eateries to choose from for a bite to eat and a drink.

https://www.new-jersey-leisure-guide.com/coastal-heritage-trail.html

Happy Summer 2021

A little sand between your toes always takes away your woes.

“The difference between what you were yesterday and what you will be tomorrow is what you do today.” ~ Stephen Pierce

James Catanoso Broker Salesperson

Ashley S. Peoples Managing Broker

Sophia Peters Salesperson

Brooke Clary Salesperson

Heather Delmonte Melissa Jastremski Justine Kelly Griffin Scott “Bick” Murphy Richard Parker Salesperson Salesperson Salesperson Salesperson Salesperson

901 NEW JERSEY AVENUE, NORTH WILDWOOD, NJ 08260 OFFICE: 609.551.4066 FAX: 609.551.2480

Carli Quinn Broker Salesperson

Kevin M. Quinn Salesperson

Jason Ruffenach Salesperson

Zachary J. Ruffo Salesperson

Todd H. deSatnick Broker of Record/Owner

Katherine Youschak Salesperson

22 “A board and a wave. . . sometimes that’s all you need. . .”

“BOOgIe BoardiNG” ...it’s time to get your boogie board on!

SAVE THE DATE! JULY 17, REG. 9 AM, CONTEST 10 AM 15TH ST. BEACH, NORTH WILDWOOD

Miles Bettle

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by HOLLY DORAN Victoria and Alex Weryzynski

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Mia and Ava Dibello

Owen & Harrison Koniecki with Frelyn Cahill in between

Party Wave with Teddy Bernard and Jules Valentino

Falyn Savage

Katie Cargill

Timmy Staab

Leah Fedorchak

Collin McAnaney

Samantha and David Ehling

Claire Cortese

Nick Dehoratius

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Have Fun in the Sun!

“God stirs up the sea so that it’s waves roar...” ~ Isaiah 51:15

WiLDWooD by-the-sea: Summer Memories written by Holly Doran

C O F F E E® AV A L O N RIO CAFE AND GRILL 3167 Rt. 9 South, Rio Grande, NJ Open Daily 7am to 3pm • 609-463-0275

Holly & Makayla My shore story started when my parents bought our family beach house in 2010. I was only in first grade at the time. Every year since then, my family spends the whole summer in WIldwood and visits often during the winter. Lucky for me, I was able to grow up by the sea. Our family has so many amazing memories from all of our time spent at the shore. I still remember the first time I walked in a shore house that was our very own. It was elating and exciting beyond words. I remember the first bayside sunset and how magical it looked and how lucky I felt. And I remember the first time that I was tall enough to ride the Sea Serpent on Morey’s Piers. I sat next to my dad and my sister sat with my mom behind us. My eyes were closed the whole time, though that did not stop me from yelling, Again, again! As soon as we stepped off. Still to this day, one of my favorite beach activities is scouring the sand for the biggest and smoothest seashells. My whole family would collect these perfect shells. When we came home from our day at the beach, we would rinse them off and paint them. Another one of my favorite parts of the shore is coming into our beach house and smelling the shrimp cooking while Jimmy Buffet plays in the background. My sister Makayla and I, still in our bathing suits, would go outside to join my parents on the porch. We would eat dinner and watch the sun slowly sink below the bay, leaving beautiful colors in its wake. My mom and I would walk to the end of the street and try to capture it with our cameras. There were other days though, that were not quite as peaceful, but instead an ongoing party! At least

Holly, Makayla Laurie & Ed Doran and their Roxy once a year the entire extended family comes to our beach house to watch the Kentucky derby. We all sit on the porch telling stories from noon until the stars come out. Sometimes, when feeling up to it, our family would wake up before the sun. We would all ride our bikes to the beach, feeling the cool morning air, just in time to watch the sun rise and start our day. Bike rides are one of my favorite parts of the shore. I love feeling the warm sun while riding up and down the beachside paths. But my favorite part of having a beach house is being able to go to the ocean. Surfing in the cool blue water, while my family relaxes and enjoys the warmth. My dad cheers me on and always helps me believe I can do it. Other days, all it takes is walking by the ocean with the water on my toes and the salty wind in my hair to make me smile. Though restaurants and stores may change in Wildwood often, the joy and the spirit of the little beach town will be something I will always cherish.

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24 “Always love people more than things.” ~Ànon.

Unequaled Product, Price & Professionalism for36 years!

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5 MILES Smiles!

Today’s message for you is that you should let your smile be your most commonly worn accessory. It is beautiful, it is priceless, and it matches every outfit in your closet.

Jim & Bonnie Carlson out on their bike ride, stop by to check on Jules Gould at the Crest Info Center

“It’s the hard work that puts you where the good luck can find you!” Our favorite paperboy, Chase is one of the hardest working kids on the island, walking through the hot sand everyday of the summer for the past few years, selling the Daily News. (Photo taken 2019)

Bazooka Joe has been handing out bubblegum to lifeguards and beachgoers since 1996. We happened to catch him on his birthday, 8/9/19 happily strolling the beach, giving the gift of bubblegum to everyone he sees...So it is said, the happiest people in the world are not those getting more, but those giving more.

Kids just wanna have fun! Mekhi, Eric, Danny, Riley Gina, Brendon & Anthony

Scott & Kelly Williams on island time!

Have Fun in the Sun!

“Sounds of the wind and sounds of the sea make me happy just to be.” -June Polis

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Check our facebook page for movie info & truck listings!

“Grace and peace be yours in abundance...” ~2 Peter 1:2

“I just want to lie on the beach and eat hot dogs. That’s all I’ve ever wanted.” ~Kevin from The Office

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5 MILES of Smiles! To: Capt. MAC Enjoy every day like it’s Sun-day!

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Open every day in the heart of Stone Harbor on 96th St. at South Jersey’s only Dine-In Movie Theater (609) 796-5669 www.harborburgerbar.com

Congratulations Joe McNamee! Wishing my favorite mailman of 35 years, a happy retirement. Joe sure lived up to the Postman’s Oath, ”Neither Rain, Nor Sleet, Nor Dark Of Night Shall Stay These Couriers From The Swift Completion Of Their Appointed Rounds.” (Shown here in the aftermath of the double blizzard of 2010) In April 2021, a new chapter in Joe’s life set sail on the Captain Mac, owned and operated by Capt. Joe McNamee himself.

Joe is pictured here working on the Rainbow for Capt. Dom D’Orio, a summer job that led Joe to a lifetime of island pleasure, fishing on the sea. He became a mate and after moving to Wildwood full time in 1980, he got his captain’s license at the young age of 19. Today, he can hang his sign and never have to take it down... “GONE FISHING!” Wishing you “Fair Winds and Following Seas...”

On March 12th, 2021, Sam’s Pizza Palace announced the passing of its founding father, Sam Spera at age 92. Born in 1928 in Villalba, Sicily, Sam set off to America in 1951 with a few dollars in his pocket. He and his wife Anna settled in Trenton, NJ, eventually making their way to Wildwood. Sam’s goal of building a business to support his family resulted in something much bigger than he could’ve ever envisioned. “Sam leaves behind a legacy built on flour and sauce, hard work, and strong will, “ his family wrote on their social media pages. They thanked everyone of their customers, staff and friends for being part of his life and story. Even on the day of his passing, Sam’s family opened their doors, because according to Spera’s son Tony, the patriarch “wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.”

Be sure to think of Sam and Anna while enjoying your next slice.

Have Fun in the Sun!

“I know I don’t get there often enough, but God knows I surely try . It’s a magic kind of medicine that no doctor could prescribe.”

~Jimmy Buffet

North Wildwood’s Only Bayfront Restaurant Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner! Shrimp • Oysters • Crabs • Clams • Pulled BBQ Chicken • Pork • Smoked Prime Rib • Sweet & Smokey St. Louis Ribs

Key West Style Waterfront Restaurant & bar

AmAZING indoor/outdoor Deck! island inspired Breakfast

Our Key West Style Waterfront Restaurant serves one of the best breakfast’s on the island! Walk along the palm trees and slide up to a table either under the deck, in a gazebo, or under an umbrella. Soak up the sun and the waterfront views of the bays of the Wildwoods.

island inspired Lunch & Dinners

Looking for Authentic BBQ or ‘Almost jumps off your plate’ fresh seafood? The Surfing Pig brings together the best of Waterfront Dining,

Real Wood Smoked BBQ & Local FRESH Seafood. If the mouthwatering food isn’t enough to entice you in for dinner, how about a Spectacular Sunset? Every table in the restaurant has a spectacular sunset view…

Serving a Full Selection of Beers & CocktaiLs! A LW ays SerVing Sunsets. . . LIVE MUSIC DAILY 3PM-7PM

Check our Social Media For Entertainment Schedule

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Home of everything watersports for the Wildwoods.

Spend a day on the water crabbing, fishing, cruising or anything your seafaring heart desires aboard one of the pontoon boats in our fleet. Looking for something a bit more energizing or eco-friendly, rent a paddle board or kayak and take in some of the wetlands and wildlife of the back bays of New Jersey.

www.SouthdockCafe.com

10TH & THE BAY • NORTH WILDWOOD, NJ

Restaurant & Marina Open 8am

28 “And there were houses that breathed. They carried in their wood and stone a kind of ego that was very nearly human.” ~Nora Roberts

This Old House: 217 E. 20th Ave.N .

If These Walls Could Talk

W I L D W O O D B U I LT I N 1 9 0 5

There’s no story like an old Wildwood story, and this one dates back to 1905 within the walls of the grand old house residing at 217 E. 20th Avenue in North Wildwood. In wasn’t until approximately 1924, however, when Rose Eitle and her father Gottleib made the house their home, according to the oldest Polk Directory in the Wildwood Historic Museum’s archives. As the story goes, and as told within the St. Simeon’s church bulletin where she attended, written by John Carr, Rose needed a housekeeper and persuaded her distant relative, Ethyl Briggs from Yorkshire England, to come live with her. After doing our homework, we can’t help but think they were like that pair of spinsters, the “Baldwin sisters,” who lived on Walton Mountain in the TV show. We don’t know if they made any special moonshine “Recipe,” but we do know they were known around town for their frequent appearances at council meetings and many church functions. Interestingly, at least by “spinster” standards, they were also known for hosting many famous Big Band entertainers at their home and actually built a twobedroom, two-bath addition on the back for their guests. However, the real “shining moment” was the medal that Rose was awarded from King George of England himself for her work with Brittish World Relief during WWII. The medal now resides inside a display case at our Wildwood Museum. Rose dedicated her life to humanitarian causes and lived in this home until her death in 1982.

After Gottleib and Rose passed away, the deed went to Ethyl, who in later years was deemed “mentally incapacitated”. Years went by and all was quiet on the homefront, that is until 1992 when Ellen and Jerry Borash bought the house ‘on a whim.’ Being on the market for quite a while, it was reduced to sell at $79,900 from the original price of $125,000. The Borash’s loved old homes and had a large Victorian back in Bridgeton. Inside their history-laden new home, they found in the attic a commemorative “King Neptune” poster, which was given as a souvenir to any passenger on a cross-Atlantic voyage, along with luggage trunks for traveling. Another wartime remnant came in the form of black shades that used to hang on their windows during “Blackout” times. Setting a distinct tone from days gone by, the Borash’s kept the old rotary wall phone in the living room. The house had fallen into disrepair over its many seaside years, but with great TLC, they spent the next eight years committed to its restoration, until Jerry sadly passed away a year after a heart transplant. Left with no other choice, Ellen Borash put the home up for sale in 2014 and within hours had a buyer. Enter Bill and Pam Campbell, who were from Philadelphia but owned a tiny condo up the street and greatly admired the majestic old house, driving by it often. Thanks to grandchildren, their family was growing, and buying the home was “the best decision of their lives.” The Campbells lovingly renovated the home to better accommodate their large family, adding their own seaside chapter to a grand story that began so many years ago in our little town... if those walls could talk, oh, the stories they would tell! However, as stories sometimes go, they are ever-changing... we learned that the Campbell’s listed the house for sale in December 2020 and once again, within hours had a buyer. And so another family will lovingly tend to and make new stories within the walls of this beautiful old seaside victorian, built 116 years ago. {Ed. Note: Thank you to Karen Myers who saw The Sun’s Instagram post @wildwoodsunbythesea featuring the above beautiful photo of the home and connected us to Ellen Borash, who connected us to the Campbells. That is social media working at its best!}

Rose Eitle and her medal awarded by King George

Ethyl Briggs (left) and Rose Eitle in 1972

Ethyl Briggs on the steps at 217. E. 20th

Happy Summer 2021

“Gratitude for the present moment and the fullness of life is the true prosperity.” ~Eckart Tolle

“I want to grow old in an old house built by an old tree on an island by an old sea.”

217 E. 20th Ave. N. W I L DWO O D B U I LT I N 1 9 0 5

This vintage travel poster, found in the attic, was a souvenir to Rose who traveled extensively around the world on these ships.

Bill & Pam Campbell While the Campbells will surely miss their slice of seaside Heaven, the next chapter in their story happily includes traveling cross country visiting National Parks with their kids and grandkids. Hopefully their travels will include the occasional visit to their once homeaway-from home by the sea.

The poster reads: Domain of Neptunus Rex To all Sailors, wherever ye may be and to all Mermaids and other Living Things of the Sea. Greetings! Know ye that on this ... day ... of 19... in latitude ... and longitude... There appeared within the limits of our Royal Domain the S.S.(too faded to read) Be it remembered: that it has been our Royal Pleasure to graciously allow Miss Rose Eitle, a passenger on board the Steamer We have just named to Cross the Line and that we have duly admitted to the Solemn Mystery of the Ancient Order of the Deep...

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30 “No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another... Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Lynch!”

FUN

Mr. Lynch brings out the best in the children of the Wildwoods and they clearly bring out the best in him! Whether reading to school children, visiting the sick or participating in FUNraisers and Christmas toy drives, Lunch with Lynch, a non-profit organization is dedicated to helping children in need, and no one is more devoted than Mr. John Lynch himself. Pictured on the cover with his wife Vickster (as he affectionately calls her) and some of their “kids,” including Raelyn, Gianni, Layla, Colin and Mily, who John attributes his entire “inspiring kindness” mission to. As the story goes, when Mily was just a preschooler, she asked John if she could sit on his lap while he read to her class... and the rest, as they say, is Wildwood history! John and Mily clearly have a special bond, as evidenced by the following letters. The story is sure to inspire you too! FROM JOHN: “Mily asked me to read her essay for college. It completely blew me away! My meeting Mily set into motion an out of control train that continues to gain momentum 14 years later! Though Mily was the inspiration for LWL ... Kenyon, Kate, Tricia and Tracey, you are the backbone of the organization! You encouraged, taught, inspired and trained me to make a difference in the lives of children from Glenwood & the Annex ... and now look at the impact of LWL beyond those walls! I don’t know how to properly say Thank you ... Thank you - Mr. Lynch MILY’S MESSAGE: I am someone who believes that people come into your life for the right reasons and at the right time. John Lynch, my best friend, is one of those people and has also helped shape me into the person that I am now. It all goes back to when I was in my Pre-K class listening to Mr. Lynch read the book by Todd Parr, “It’s Okay To Be Different.” In Pre-K, I didn’t speak much English, since I grew up in a household where Spanish was my primary language, hence, I was the little girl in my class who spoke and no one understood.

�bout the Cover

U H N N U r. S m

John & Mily in 2009

Mily & John in 2021

Mr. Lynch was in the middle of reading the book, when I interrupted him and, in Spanish, asked him a question. It took a couple of minutes for him and my teacher, Mrs. Haas, to figure out what I was saying until they finally got it, “She wants to sit on your lap while you finish reading your book.” said Mrs. Haas. The reason why this story is so meaningful is that it was the beginning of something great. My action of comforting Mr. Lynch as he read the book in front of an audience for his first time, moved him to want to get closer to the children of my hometown and help them grow, not just physically but also mentally. Mr. Lynch created a foundation called, The Lunch with Lynch Foundation, and its purpose is, “To help facilitate the learning experiences for the children of the Wildwoods through educational opportunities in and out of the classrooms.” as Mr. Lynch describes on his website. It has been a very successful and wellknown foundation, it has been very giving to our community, and it has helped bring our community together. The foundation has made the impossible become possible with donations and the help it provides. Growing up I never admitted that I had been part of Mr. Lynch’s inspiration to do something big like this because I didn’t want the attention or to seem cocky, but I realized that taking the credit Mr. Lynch was giving me wasn’t being cocky or full of myself, but something that I should be proud of.

The nickname that Mr. Lynch gave me growing up, “The Co-Founder of the Lunch With Lynch foundation,” and the foundation itself has been what has helped form me into the person that I am today. Knowing that the foundation has some of my name sprinkled around it motivated me to work hard to earn the great reputation that I have. I have been a straight-A student my whole life who gives it their all at all times no matter the circumstances. It is the reason why I went from being a shy, quiet girl to a more social and friendly person. I make sure that my actions represent me well so when my name is mentioned, a positive picture comes to mind. However, this has also been the reason why I have overworked myself and started to over-think. There are times when I want to seem perfect knowing that it isn’t possible because no one is perfect. I worry too much about what others think about my choices and quickly become overwhelmed when a little inconvenience happens. But it all works out because I am constantly reminded by my friends and people in my community of the great person that I am. I have learned to take things easy and go with the flow because good things happen to good people at the right time.

www.LunchwithLynch.com

In pure FUN in the SUN fashion, we shot the cover photo in Tim & Barbara Blute’s super fun yard (whose story was featured a few years back). Thanks to everyone who made it happen... most of all to John & Vicki, an extraordinary couple doing extraordinary things for a grateful community.

Tiffany Bartee, with her beautiful family: big brother Caiden, Raelyn (our little cover girl), Mi’chaela (Baby Chunks) & big sister Natalie

The Bartee’s at a special beach day last summer in memory of Ray’s best friend Scottie Gregg.

Happy Summer 2021

“That far-resounding roar is the Ocean’s voice of welcome. His salt breath brings a blessing along with it.” ~beach blessing

open year-round

THANK YOU SO MUCH!

WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS!

The Mendel Family

26TH & NEW JERSEY AVE • WILDWOODS, NJ Shop with us anytime at sandjamm.com

32 “The seasons are what a symphony ought to be: four perfect movements in harmony with each other. “ ~ pianist Arthur Rubinstein

Ed Morton was Wild About Wildwood! courtesy of Wildwood Historical Museum

Now & Then

Ed Morton made an entertaining contribution to the town of Wildwood beginning in the early 1910s. Once a Philadelphia police officer, he went on to become a singer, songwriter, vaudevillian and ultimately a Wildwood restauranteur and community activist. The CD, “Ed Morton’s ‘Bit of Broadway (The Sound of Broadway, Volume 2),” features 27 of Morton’s songs, written and performed by him between 1911 and 1926, and pays homage to Morton’s restaurant, once located on the Boardwalk where North Wildwood meets Wildwood at 26th Avenue (now the home of Gateway Arcade). The success of the song, “I’m Wild about Wildwood” was credited to but not written by Morton, who included it in his vaudeville act (2,000 copies were ultimately sold).

If you’ve ever been to Wildwood, Wildwood by the sea; then you know the reason I would always like to be Strolling along it’s beautiful strand Bathing all day in the ocean so Grand Dancing to the music of the band All aboard! Let’s go! Oh, I’m wild, simply wild about Wildwood,

A big vaudevillian hit, and newfound Wildwood lover, Morton and his family rented a summer home here in 1911. Starting in 1912, he coordinated his bookings so that he would have 12 weeks off during the summer to be spent in Wildwood. This led to his restaurant, “A Bit of Broadway,” as well as a tobacco shop. He entertained at the Nixon Vaudeville Theater and played a part in the start of the Wildwood Golf Club, before taking on yet another role, that of chairman of the house committee, for 10 years.

Down by the murmuring sea with its sweet bathing peaches, and long level beaches That’s the place for me There’s just one thing that my heart craves To hear the music of the sad sea waves

He took his final stage bow in 1926 and died on April 11, 1938. Two days following his death, the much-loved Wildwood entertainer was honored by the fireman and police at a silent tribute banquet. Now, eighty-one years after his death, his place in Wildwood’s extensive history book is fondly recalled. NOTE: After seeing The Sun post a preview of this story on social media, Erin Knoll McMann reached out to let us know that Ed Morton was her great-great-grandfather. Her father’s grandmother was Ed’s daughter Agnes “Effie” Knoll. It’s amazing to know that his love for Wildwood continues to live on through generations of his family.

Oh I’m wild, simply wild about Wildwood, Wildwood by the Sea When you’re feeling sort of weary, lonesome tired or blue, Here’s a way to make you cheery, here’s what you should do Just pack your grip and whistle goodbye beat it for Wildwood, the fair isn’t high When you get there, you will surely cry “ just the place for me!”

Happy Summer 2021

“Memory is the one paradise out of which we cannot be driven.” ~Sacha Guitry G eorge F. B oyer M useum 3907 Pacific Avenue

B y - t h e - S e a, N.J.

www .w ildwood H istorical M useuM . coM

609-523-0277

A Blast From the Past ! Tell Them You Saw them in The Sun!

Happily Helping Families Buy, Sell and Invest in Real Estate Down the Shore!

For Market News and Real Estate Tips, Follow me: Shirrolyn Minggia WHS 71

JOHNNY LOVE WHS 71

Suzanne Gilson Realtor HomeDowntheShore Suzanne Gilson

MARCUS A. GALES WHS 71

Search All Listings HomeDowntheShore.com

DON LITTLE WHS 66

LISA HUESKEN WCHS 79

LINDA SMITH WHS 66

JEFFEREY HARRIS WHS 81

MIKE ROSENELLO WCHS 79

Suzanne Gilson

Realtor, Sales Associate Office: 609-522-1212 Direct: 609-231-9347 Fax: 609-523-8227

Century 21 Alliance

5811 New Jersey Avenue Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260

8 1 9 1 ST.

BILL MARKEE WCHS 79

ERNEST TROIANO, Jr. President CONCRETE & MASONRY CONTRACTORS

Four Generations Serving THE WILDWOODS & Cape May County for over 100 years! MARIE ELENA LANZA WCHS 60

MARIA MATTERA WCHS 79

TIMOTHY R. TURNER WHS 81

QUALITY COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL WORK troianojr@comcast.net P 609-522-3355 C 609-517-0970

34 “A bad habit never disappears miraculously; it’s an undo-it yourself project.” ~Abigail Van Buren, “Dear Abby”

T L S INE A O C �ishing you a

Safe & �appy �emorial Day!

BUILDERS LLC.

609-523-6888

RICK DAVIS BUILDS THE COASTLINE

ONE HOUSE AT A TIME.

Rick and his Fishing Shack Renovation in Wildwood

STOP BY OUR OFFICE AT

2500 NEW JERSEY AVE., NORTH WILDWOOD SERVING ALL OF CAPE MAY COUNTY

• Incorporated since 1993 • Fully licensed and insured NJ13VH04275700 • Free Estimates • Free Plans & Drawings • Large local customer reference base • Senior Citizen Discounts • Born & Raised in the Wildwoods WCHS ‘74 Rick is also on the following committeesTimes are Tough! • Volunteer North Wildwood Fire Co., 20 yrs. • Member of Wildwood Rotary Building shouldn’t be rough! • Volunteer Five Mile Beach Firemen’s Assoc.Ask us about local discounts. • Greater Wildwood Scholarship Fund Member

RICK DAVIS BUILDS DECKS ONE STEP AT A TIME

Have Fun in the Sun!

“To pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.” ~Mary Oliver

oehler Floor Covering Contracto

For All Your Flooring Needs! Finest Quality Installations!

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TRASH

WE TAKE YOUR CANS TO THE CURB AND BACK ON TIME, EVERY TIME!

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LOVE’S PEST CONTROL All you Need is Love!

Complete Pest Control Services - 24/7

Termite & Pest Control Flea & Tick Control Specialists COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL CAPE MAY COURTHOUSE 609-463-0778

609-729-0110

AISING R E S HOU

609.522.7210

Visit our Design Center at the Foot of the Bridge

800 SPRUCE ST. • NORTH WILDWOOD

PAVERS • SIDEWALKS & MORE

STUCCO • FOUNDATIONS

WILDWOOD, NJ

Specializing in “Do you want to feel better, have better posture and more energy? It’s time to see what gentle and effective chiropractic care can do for you!” ~ Dr. Dana

C a l l D r. D a n a

609-741-0006 D r. D a n a E . B a r r y, D C P. O. B ox 1 3 2 South Dennis, NJ 08245

Interior - Exterior

PAINTING - WOOD STAINING POWERWASHING Residential -Commercial Decks - Fencing - RVs - Boats DRYWALL REPAIRS

FREE ESTIMATES

609-602-3951 coloryourworldtoday@yahoo.com 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Mike Leeper’s Tax Service Inc.

IRS Registered Tax Return Preparer

Wildwood, NJ 609-522-6392 Del Haven, NJ 609-602-8243 Cell: 804-894-0654 mjleepersr@comcast.net

w w w. We L o o k C l o s e r. c o m

PUT THE BOARDWALK BACK ON YOUR SHOPPING LIST !

Everything WiLdwood under 3 roofs ! 10

Anniversary Season

Years

3 Gifts & Variety Stores on the Wildwood Boardwalk! Between Cedar & Schellenger Aves.

Find what you need for the Beach & more!

Souveniers & Gifts Galore!

Years

Quality Clothing for Men Women & Children

The Largest Stores on the Wildwood Boardwalk! On the corner of Glenwood Ave.

Largest Selection of worldwide Shell Ornaments

Between 25th & 26th Aves.

Years

Biggest & Best Selection of Hermit Crabs & Accessories Help us Shell-abrate!

3 Fun Places to Shop

Have a Blast on the Boards. . . Morning, Noon & Night!

www. D o0 WW . com

• Established in 1982 • Fully enclosed Air Conditioned & Heated Arcade!

Located on Mariner’s Landing Amusement Pier OPEN EVERY DAY AT 9AM

3501 Boardwalk at Cedar Ave • Wildwood, NJ www.marinersarcade.com

609-522-7786

ENS BIKE E S GR Est. 1963

FREE PARKING for BIKE RIDERS

OPEN 7AM

RENTALS • SALES • SERVICE BICYCLES • TANDEMS • SURREYS

Hourly • Daily • Weekly 5402 Ocean Ave. Between Cresse Ave and Morning Glory Rd. Wildwood Crest, NJ {Just off the southern end of the Boardwalk} OCEANVIEW PATIO DINING 3401 BOARDWALK & OAK AVE. WILDWOOD, NJ

609-522-0034 609-435-7319

10%

OFF

ANY PURCHASE

Limit one coupon per person. Not to be combined with other offers. Expires 10/2021

38 Have

6eaBoa Ythe

Sam’s

d A re te IZZ Sho m Vo T P sey ly.co S er il BE he J xPh t Fo on my

4rrsdwalk

a Blast on the Boards. .

PIZZA

PALACE

PREMIER BARISTA BYOB TAKE-OUT • DELIVERY CATERING

CAPPUCCINO ESPRESSO

reakfast BesTtHEBBOARDWALK ON 8 S i n c e 197DAILY SPECIALS - HEALTHY MENU OPTIONS:

LOW CARB-KETO - GLUTEN-FREE - HEART SMART

OPEN DAiLY

BREAKFAST 7:30 - 3:00PM: NEW! BARISTA - LAVAZZA Classic Specials - Famous French Toast - Waffles

7:30 a.m.

LUNCH 11:30 - 3:00PM: Classic Specials - Burgers - Cheesesteaks -Sandwiches - Salads

DINNER 6:00 - 10:00PM: Authentic Italian-American SUNDAY DINNER - Served Every Day! $18. inc. Pasta w/ Meatballs or Sausage, w/ Soup or Salad, Bread & Butter, Olives w/ Dipping Oil, Dessert & Coffee

26th & Boardwalk Wildwood, NJ 609-522-6017

17TH AVENUE & THE BOARDWALK in NORTH WILDWOOD, NJ 609-770-7270 LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • Free Customer Parking Lot Behind Restaurant OPEN DAILY AT 7:30 AM

The Origina

CAPE MAY

STONE HARBOR

WILDWOOD

OCEAN CITY

Whipped Creamy Fudge • Premium Chocolates • Saltwater Taffy

fudgekitchens.com 1-800-23FU D GE facebook.com/theoriginalfudgekitchen

Celebrating our 50th Year!

Visit us and watch our creamy fudge being hand made in copper kettles. Thanks for making us one of your Favorite Seashore Traditions for 50 years!

% BRING THIS COUPON TO THE ORIGINAL FUDGE KITCHEN FOR OFF

YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE

8th St. on Boardwalk (Across from Music Pier) Ocean City 609-398-7457 254 96th St., Stone Harbor 609-368-3003

Wildwood Locations Roberts Ave. & Boardwalk 609-522-4396 22nd St. on Boardwalk 609-729-6022

Cape May Locations 513 Washington St. Mall 609-884-2834 728 Beach Drive 609-884-4287

. Morning, Noon & Night!

“America’s Best Boardwalk!” ~FamilyVacationCritic.com

VISIT

2 Oceanfront Locations! Beer, Wine & Cocktails Lunch • Dinner Late Night Menu

2701 BOARDWALK (609)523-1700 3800 BOARDWALK (609)554-3183

.NET

INFO • NEWS • EVENTS

Come and Enjoy Mexican Cuisine! OCEAN VIEWS & GREAT FOOD Open-air Seating - Roof top Patio Friday night Fireworks!

Magnolia Avenue on the Wildwood Boardwalk (formerly Stewarts)

Have a Blast on the Boards.

Win a

FREE PASS!

/DearSummer Go to MoreysPiers.com computer. on your smartphone or Or scan the QR code.

ADMIT FUN

Dear Summer, I missed hanging out with you.

Tell us what you missed last summer while you were stuck inside. We’ll let you know if you’re one of the lucky winners!!

. . Morning, Noon & Night! 41

SHOP • DINE • PLAY & STAY

DOO

BAGEL TIME CAFE ALL BAGELS & PASTRIES BAKED FRESH DAILY

3 GREAT LOCATIONS OPEN 7 DAYS!

1. BAGEL TIME CAFE

BURKE & ATLANTIC AVE. WILDWOOD, NJ

NEWLY D RENOVATE

(609) 600-2624

WE DELIVER!

2. BAGEL TIME CAFE

at AQUA BEACH RESORT 5501 OCEAN AVE.

HOWARD & BEACH DRIVE

CAPE MAY (609) 408-7596

WILDWOOD CREST

ONLINE ORDERING AT WWW. B AGEL T IME NJ .COM

12 BAGEL TIME 3 GOOD FOR ENTIRE PARTY 9 CAFE Expires 10/31/21 6 EAT IN TAKE OUT CATERING

10%

3. BAGEL TIME CAFE

OFF LUNCH

$12. Expires 10/31/21

BAKER’S DOZEN OF BAGELS

WITH PURCHASE OF LARGE CONTAINER CREAM CHEESE

MORE THAN JUST BAGELS

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

Downtown Wildwood

DOO

SHOP • DINE • PLAY & STAY

DOO

5210 Pacific Ave. 609-729-1817

Home Made Ice Cream

47 sweet years

U nde r w a t e r

Ad A dventuRe 18

. . . 18 Hole

breakfast lunch & dinner menu De-elicious food ! gift shop gifts galore in this little store ! arcade win prizes ! come see the

toy train

Miniature Golf Course

5210 Pacific Ave. 609-729-1817

NewWildwood Jewelry Exclusively Available Dine-In

Take-Out

�ew! �oroccan Comfort �ood comes to Pacific �venue!

Tagines - Stews Cooked in Traditional Pots Tara Kitchen offers a modern take on the traditional flavors of Morocco by Award-Winning Chef Aneesa Waheed a Gluten Free & Vegan Options a

5209 PACIFIC AVENUE • WILDWOOD, NJ 609-523-7053 View Menu at www.Tarakitchen.com

M.S. Brown Jewelers

SINCE 1950

3304 Pacific Ave., Wildwood, NJ 609-522-7604 MSBrownJewelers.com 5 South Main St., Unit 103, CMCH, NJ 609-463-8799

Downtown Wildwood t Cafe y We&sLunch KeBreakfast Open year round 7 days a week 8am - 2pm

sPecia

lunch

$ .99 for

from

Serving Dinner 5pm

EAR breakFaLY BIRD st sPec ia

$3.22

Eat-in Take-Out 2 e

m 11:30a i mon-fr ich andw g soup-s na, eg u t , n e e k s ic e e h ch blt, c , grille-dcoleslaw salad s ip h c pickle

Where the Locals Love to Eat!

mon-fri

7-9am

ggs - 2 P a 2 Pcs. bacnocakes n must be acco w/purchase mpanied d bevarage

Reg. menu price after 9am

CORNER OF ANDREW & PACIFIC AVES. WILDWOOD 522-5006

WW byob

hawk haven vineyard wines

On & Off site catering

(609) 522-5223 www.onefishtwofishrestaurant.net

local fresh ingredients

. . . new merchandise arriving daily!

Women’s Men’s Corner of Taylor & Pacific Ave . Children’s WILDWOOD 523-1166 Clothing - Shoes

TOTAL IMAGE

DOO

and I mean cheap!

A Really Cool secondhand clothshop

Thrift Store

and so much more

come dine at our new location! 3001 Pacific Ave. • Wildwood by-the-sea, NJ

Welcome Back!

A FULL SERVICE SALON

FLORAL DESIGN & GIFTS

Come to Goodnight Irene’s Where every night is a good night!

We’re more than just flowers!

• Coppola Keratin Smoothing • Foil Highlighting • Body Waves • Matrix Color & Precision Cutting • Corrective Color • Airbrush Makeup

Open Wednesday thru Saturday Call for Your Appointment

609.523.8700 On the corner of Rio Grande & Pacific Avenues Wildwood, NJ {COMPLIMENTARY PARKING DIRECTLY ACROSS THE STREET IN OUR LOT}

LIVE MUSIC ALL SUMMER LONG

INSIDE & OUTSIDE DINING OUTSIDE PATIO BAR

Wedding Specialists

38 Beers on Tap Featuring 2 Taps from Cape May

202 E Rio Grande Ave Wildwood, NJ 609.523.9500

CHECK OUR SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UPDATES AND MENU SPECIALS

Petalswildwood.com

Poplar & Pacific Ave. Wildwood, NJ (609) 729-3861

DOO DOO

WW WW

SHOP • DINE • PLAY & STAY

IN/OUTDOOR DINING TO-GO COCKTAILS TAKEOUT & DELIVERY ORDER ONLINE

609-522-8383

100 E. TAYLOR AVE., WILDWOOD, NJ

DOGTOOTHBAR.COM

OUTDOOR PATIO LIVE MUSIC

Wildwood’s

OnL Y BReWErY

BEER, WINE & COCKTAILS FOOD & DRINK TO-GO

609-846-7918

127 RIO GRANDE AVE., WILDWOOD, NJ

MUDHENBREW.COM

BYOB WINE & BEER TAKEOUT & DELIVERY ORDER ONLINE AUTHENTIC NEAPOLITAN BRICK OVEN PIZZA

609-600-3964

4709 NEW JERSEY AVE., WILDWOOD, NJ

POPPISBRICKOVEN.COM

Your table’s almost ready

Downtown Wildwood ! r e m m U HELLO S PEN! e’rE O W

Rose

3907 Pacific Avenue

OPEN 5PM-5AM DELIVERY TIL 5AM! • PIZZA • SUBS • SANDWICHES • STROMBOLI & MUCH MORE!

CallOfourt! Take-

INSIDE & OUTSIDE

Live Entertainment

FEATURING VEAL, STEAK, CHOPS, CHICKEN, SEAFOOD & PASTA DISHES A Wildwood Favorite Since 1985

www.wildwoodHistoricalMuseuM.coM

MuseuM Hours: MAY: Fri-sat 10-3, sun 12-5 JUNE: Mon-wed-tHur-Fri-sat 10-3, sun 12-5

WW WW

Fine Dining!

George F. Boyer Museum

B y - t h e - S e a, N.J.

DOO DOO

EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHT

Oak & New Jersey Aves. WILDWOOD, NJ 609-729-5755

UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKE HOUSE OPEN EVERY DAY 7AM ~ 2PM

3707 PACIFIC AVE., WILDWOOD • 523-1515

E NK

TRE

ASU RES THRIFT & GIFT SHOP

“Where the old meets the new” Old, New Unique Gifts & Home Decor. . . a treasure for everyone!

clearance

$ale 4501 Pacific Ave. in downtown Wildwood

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday • 609-214- 2253

Burk & Pacific Aves. Wildwood 609.729.7557

INDOOR - OUTDOOR SEATING PLENTY OF FREE PARKING

SHOP • DINE • PLAY & STAY

DOO

Duffinetti’s

SALES • RENTALS • REPAIR

O P E N Y E A R RO U ND

R E S TAU R A N T & L O U N G E

BIKES

3.5% SALES TAX!

EST. 1947 Open Year Round

Traditional Italian fare with a Flair of Creativity Happy Hour 4 - 6pm at the Bar

Best �appy �our on the islan�! Trish’s Lounge Menu Items 1/2 Price

BIKES

$5 house wines • $1 off Bottles of domestic beer • $4 well drinks

ZIPPY’S 10TH SUMMER IN DOWNTOWN WILDWOOD!

Early Bird: 4- 5:30pm ~ 15% Off All Adult dinners

Safely Spaced Inside Dining Preferred Seating Available & Dog-friendly Outside Dining

WEEKEND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FOR UPDATES, CHECK OUR

& THE GRID

4600 PACIFIC AVE., WILDWOOD, NJ • 609-522-0002 • AMPLE FREE PARKING

IN 2020 BIKES WERE HARD TO FIND! ZIPPY’S HAS HUNDREDS OF BIKES & Ebikes in stock for 2021, RIGHT NOW!!! But that won’t last!! BIKES Stop in or order ahead online and pick them up in-store.

Trek and Electra Cruiser, Townies, Mountain Bikes, Fitness, Hybrids, Kids Bikes & Electric Bikes Too!!!

100 EBIKES IN STOCK!!! Zippy’s Bikes is Hiring for all Positions https://www.zippysbikes.com/articles/job-application-pg240.htm

2014

3900 Pacific Ave. DOWNTOWN Wildwood, NJ (609) 408- 8956 • zippysbikes.com

Downtown Wildwood

DOO

We’re Summer Ready! OPEN YEAR ROUND Serving Dinners from 4pm

Earlybird Special

Indoor & Outdoor Dining! Reservations Fri & Sat 609-522-8300

Are You?

‘til 5:30pm Daily

Soup, Salad, Entree and Dessert

3813 Pacific Ave. Wildwood, NJ 609-522-8300

Free Parking on Corner of Garfield Ave. by Chubby Checker Mural Drawing of Joey M courtesy of Jersey Cape TV Magazine

• Voted Best Book Store at the Shore • We Have Books You Can’t Find anYWHere else! CATEGORIZED & ALPHABETIZED

www.hookedonbooks.info

3415 Pacific Ave. Wildwood by-the-Sea, NJ (609) 305-5731

Th� Yello� Umbrell� Gift Shopp� “You won’t believe it’s a used books store!”

QUAINT SHOP WITH UNIQUE GIFTS!

Lite ra r y Ye a rs !

 USED-BOOKS  LOWER PRICES GREAT SELECTION 3405 Pacific ave. @ Oak in DOwntOwn wilDwOOD (609) 729-1132

find us on

New Arrivals Daily

New on Pacific Avenue WILDWOOD LEGENDS

find us on

ebay

VINTAGE NIGHTCLUB & CONCERT POSTERS, BUTTONS, MUGS, & POSTCARDS

• Custom Gift Baskets • Pantry Items • Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar & Olive Oil • Home Decor • American-made • Candles & Soaps • Pottery • Ornaments & SO MUCH MORE!

A Place to Reminisce about the History of Great Entertainment from the Wildwoods to Asbury Park 3010 PACIFIC AVE., WILDWOOD, NJ • 609-408-5445

3419 Pacific Ave.,WILDWOOD, NJ • 609-374-4483

50 “Being called weird is like being called Limited Edition. Meaning you’re something people don’t see that often. Remember that.” ~Ashley Purdy “If it’s free it’s for me!”

WHEREVER YOU GO no matter what the

weather

BRiNG YOUR OWN

“No beach bag can be without it!”

SUNSHINE

SHINE IN THE SUN!

for Advertising info: thesunbythesea@gmail.com 609-214-5608

Boogie Down Saturday Nights Back-in-the-Day Dance Party

Live from Wildwood by-the-Sea 7pm-midnight on www.mybnr.com and on OCNJRadio.com with your host D.J. JAMMIN JACK CHRISTY

Spinning 60s-70s-80s Dance Music For more info call Jack @ 609-408-5919 or go to BoogieDownSaturdayNight.com sponsored by Cape May Whale Watcher

Beach Buds Forever!

dear

T he n and N o w

You have left a footprint on this Island that will never wash away. We are so lucky to have you keeping an eye on Our Town, Our Beach, and Our Memories. Always look forward to your work. God Bless. ~Joe i.

I’ve been going to Wildwood Crest for over 30 years when my mom bought a summer home and didn’t know a quarter of the things you write about! I get so much education and knowledge from your paper, I love it! ~Terry Mel

Don’t blink! Oh! How the time flies so fast and the kids grow! Squeeze the most out of every day!

Clarence & Elizabeth 1975

Loving my SUN !!! Great pictures of past memories! You outdo yourself once again Dorothy!! It’s worth waiting for your future editions! I really think you should be a serious candidate for a Pulitzer! So original since it’s inception and so unique!! You deserve it! No one else does it like you and your readers are most grateful for your hard work and dedication to your fine publication! Thank you again! ~Patrick D’Angola Thank YOU! we LOVE your morning pix and meditations, your Magazine , and your own stories you have shared, and we pray for you and yours often . YOU are an inpiration of creating Beauty; and I am sure God is pleased with your gifted works. My motto has always been CREATE BEAUTY and do all PRO GLORIA DEI. You exemplify both!

Sincerely, Clarence Neumann and family

*Here are some special photos of my family to share with Sun readers

Clarence & Elizabeth 2020 Clarence & Christine Neumann with their daughters Elizabeth & Ann. They’ve been staying at the Port Royal Hotel since 1990, making many dear friends. They’ve been visitors to the Wildwoods since the late 60s and look forward to returning every summer for the ultimate Fun-in-the-Sun!

Happy Summer 2021

“There can be no happiness if the things we believe in are different from the things we do.” ~Freya Madeline Stark

52 “Patience and fortitude conquer all things.”-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Stefankiewicz & Belasco Trouble with the Law?

Call

609.729.5250 Experienced, Driven & Effective David A. Stefankiewicz, Esq. dstef@sblawteam.com

111 East 17th St., Ste. 100 North Wildwood, NJ

Robert T. Belasco, Esq. rbelasco@sblawteam.com

FALLEN HEROES PLUNGE SAVE THE DATE! APRIL 9, 2022 The Sun Shines on the Fallen Heroes The Fallen Hero Plunge, organized by Dennis Dool, took place on April 10th, 2021. Beneath sunny skies welcoming an enthusiastic crowd, 700 plungers were running, skipping and walking their way into a 42 degree ocean. Proceeds support the Philadelphia Fallen Heroes Fund, MRSA Awareness and local scholarships. **These photos were taken in 2020.

Plunge Organizer Dennis Dool and his buddy Mo

“In the Heart of the Wildwoods”

Judges, Luann, Ann, Laurie, Vicky & Eva

Huge Selection of Beer • Wine & Liquors Jeanine, Jean & friend of Cathy Miller Foundation

Like us

at facebook.com/Roxy’s

The Progressive McKeown family & friends Jill, Diane, Carol, Sandy, Ryan, Mark, Suzy, Vera, Kevin & Joey

26TH & ATLANTIC AVE. WILDWOOD 609.729.4300 Owen & Molly McGuire

Haircuts for the Entire Family!

Open Wednesday thru Saturday Josephine & Gina

Come see Gina & Josephine! Like us at ‘His and Hairs Salon’

New Jersey & Chestnut Aves. North Wildwood

(609) 729-HA I R (4247)

The Sexy Sharks, Emily, Ava, Lexi, Allyssa with Austin, their catch of the day and photobomber of the day!

Gabi & Sophia

If I can’t wear my flip flops, I’m not going!

Happy Summer 2021

“To know that we know what we know, and to know that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge.” ~Copernicus

54 “Spread joy. Chase your wildest dreams.” ~Patch Adams

Happy Summer 2021

“There is no right time, there is just time and what you choose to do with it.”~Benjamin Franklin

Meg the Movie Buff

Cafiero Law, P.a. Attorneys-at-Law A tradition of excellence since 1931.

Goes to �ildwood

Personal Injury

2021 EARLY SUMMER MOVIE GUIDE

by Meg Corcoran

And how can we ever forget the ultimate of ocean horror films JAWS, who warned us (to no avail) NOT TO GO IN THE WATER? Terrorizing beachgoers since 1975, the infamous great white shark refused to fade into the sunset, inspiring three sequels, a theme-park ride and must-have merchandise.

James S. Cafiero Andrew J. Esq. of Counsel Cafiero tel:

Real Estate Corporations Collections Wills and Estates Planning and Eldercare Business Law Zoning and Planning

Andrea Balliette

Bruce B. Conwell, Jr.

3303 New Jersey AveNue • wildwood, NJ 08260 (609)522-0511 info@cafierolaw.com www.cafierolaw.com

Partners in Preservation “Preserving the Wildwoods”

The first issue of our quarterly newsletter came out this spring in print and online. Our focus is “local preservation news, resources for property owners and residents, and working together to preserve the places that matter to us.”

Angela Vicario with son Mike in stroller under the Strand Theater marquee.The marquee includes the Oscar image, which the picture didn’t win until April ‘66. “The Sound of Music” ran for more than a year at many theaters.

Hope you enjoy our two-part trip back in movie time…

JAWS, the original Summer Blockbuster opened on June 20, 1975 at the old Blaker Theater (Atlantic & Cedar Ave.)

www.partnersinpreservation.net

According to Ralph Grassi’s FUNCHASE.com (Wildwoods Original Nostalgic Website) “People began lining up at the ticket window at The Blaker two hours before the movie started. The two nightly performances at the 600 seat Blaker had sold out 28 consecutive times in its first two weeks.”

STAR WARS brought a brightness to the big screen unseen before its 1977 release, catapulting countless sequels, its own theme park ride and a cultural phenomenon, all from a “galaxy far, far away.” Released in 1978 but set in 1958, GREASE tells the story of two teenagers who try to take their California summer romance into a new school year, with music completing their young love story. Also set in California, AMERICAN GRAFFITI opened in the summer of 1978 but takes place over the course of one summer night in 1962, as a group of friends enjoy their last night of summer vacation.

Remember BEACH BLANKET BINGO, the classic beach movie released in 1965 starring Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon, the pair who made going to the beach not only safe but fashionable and fun?

Oh, those Summer (Movie) Nights!!We know movie lovers are always ready for a sequel and hope you’ll meet us back here in the summer edition for Part II of our Classic Movie Town Tour (we’ll bring the popcorn)…

www.seasidestateofmind.com

OUTDOOR FITNESS

2701 BOARDWALK • WILDWOOD

SEALEVELSTRENGTH.COM

s our readers well know, we here at the Sun are devoted fans of all things classic….We may live for each sundrenched, present moment, but we love to revisit the past. Afterall, those days gone by held some of our most entertaining times (with drive-in movie theaters offering some of the best views). Back to the Future reminded us that flashbacks can be fun, PSYCHO, was, well, psychotic and the SOUND OF MUSIC rivaled the sounds of the sea!

e-mail: partnersinpreservation@yahoo.com tel.: 609-214-2253

Don’t just train your beer muscles while at the shore. Challenge your strength on the pier.

To join the newsletter’s free email list and read the first edition, please visit www.preservingthewildwoods.com/newsletter

56 “Enjoy yourself. These are the “good old days” you’re going to miss in the years ahead.”

~Anon.

1940s on the WILDWOOD BOARDWALK

with Charlie Neill

By Jessica Westerland Mumford

By the summer of 1942, it was common to see men in uniforms on the boardwalk. FUNCHASE PIER, WILDWOOD BY-THE-SEA, 1935 Airman Charles W. Neill, {HUNT’S OCEAN PIER} U.S. Navy Fighter Squadron a jolly ‘haha’ kind of laugh, as she welcomed people VF-22

t is amazing how things can simultaneously stay the same through the years, but can still be so different. In the 1940s, the Wildwood Boardwalk had a slightly different feel to it then it does today. There were cartoon showings and pig races, shoe shiners and a motorcycle cage; and Charlie Neill remembers it vividly. Charlie worked on Hunt’s FunChase Pier at the pig races. It was set up like a maze, and you would pay money to throw a ball at a target, and if you hit the target the cage would open and little runt pigs would slide down a slide and choose one of two doors to go into~ one door got you a prize and one door didn’t. Charlie’s job was to hold the bottle, or ‘ninny’ to reward the little pigs. Charlie revealed the secret: “They trained all the pigs to go into the door with no prize, by having a bottle of milk waiting for them. They never went to the other door because all they wanted was the bottle. Kids didn’t care though, all they wanted was to see that pig go down that slide,” Charlie laughed. “And you know, we didn’t have the word shoobies then, they were just tourists. But we loved them, we always loved our summertime friends.” Charlie also chuckled as he could not recall what the actual prize was because he rarely gave one out. LoL Hunt’s FunChase Pier had a mechanical “Laughing Lady” a huge, oversized statue of a woman who had

onto the pier. He also mentioned the cranky Midget who was a sort of guard and watchman who was often heard yelling. There was a theatre that showed cartoons all day, and all of the basic amusement rides such as the merry-go-round, carousel, bumper cars, ferris wheel, and roller coaster. But there were also attractions that we don’t have today, like a wire cage ball with a motorcycle and rider who would circle it, and a disc that spun around and you sat in the middle trying not to slide off. There was a game called “pull a string get a thing,” in which there was a booth with tons of intertwined strings all attached to prizes, and you chose the string you hoped was attached to the prize you wanted. There was also machine that looked like a Doctor offices’ big scale, “but when you put a quarter in the whole thing would vibrate your feet- it was called the Foot Ease!” Charlie explained. Charlie also remembered how World War II touched the Wildwood Boardwalk. “The war was on, and I remember all the lights facing the ocean got painted black, because there were German Submarines out there.” Charlie and his friends used to work on the boardwalk, but not just the piers. They walked around with shoe shining boxes to earn money, but they also used to work under the boardwalk as well, collecting money the visitors would drop through the cracks in the boards. They made homemade sieves from a wooden frame and screens, and would pick places under the boardwalk that had lines of people above, where they would be more likely to open their wallets and lose change. “We would find a few soda tops, but a pretty good amount of money for kids those days!” Be it Pig races and cartoons, or mini golf and laser mazes, the Wildwood boardwalk is still amusing and entertaining tons of visitors every year, and giving each visitor their own brilliant memories to keep throughout the years. Charlie’s memories recalled an era on the Wildwood boardwalk that may one day be forgotten, lest we keep them alive.

Laffing Sal terrified children and annoyed adults at the Pier’s Funhouse and Laff Theater. You can experience her on Youtube today.

Hunt’s Ocean Pier was completely destroyed by fire on Christmas Day 1943.

VisitFUNCHASE.COM FOR THE ULTIMATE IN WILDWOOD NOSTALGIA

Photos courtesy of Wildwood Historic Society, Penna. Historic Society, Wildwood by-the-sea book

Happy Summer 2021

“A happy memory is the most valuable thing in the world. It’s a hiding place for ‘unforgotten treasures’.” ~Paul L. Powers

The Wildwoods. Circa 1964. A look back in time.

5 MILES of Smiles!

“You can never change the past nor control the future, but you can change the mood of the day by touching someone’s heart with your smile.”

RIO MOTEL 1964

DIANE BRANNEN 1964

Fun with the LAURIELLO Brothers at the Brannen’s, reminiscing with endless Wildwood stories

Al Brannen was given the “double dog dare” at the Wildwood Historic Museum’s Holiday Open House Dec. 2019

Great fun, food & friends at Al & Diane Brannen’s Annual Holiday party, 2019 BEATLES MOVIE PREMIER IN 1964

LARRY LILLO IN HIS 1960S CORVETTE

written by Al Brannen, Vice-President of the Wildwood Historic Museum

In 1964 there were six automobile dealerships on the Island. Thirty two

gas stations, most also repaired cars, two lumber companies. There were three food distributors serving the restaurants. One hundred thirty eating places, all sizes and types. Sixty five bars, clubs, shows with top entertainment of the day. Six hundred apartment buildings, large and small. Three hundred motels. Pacific Ave. was the hub for shopping. Shoe, clothing, appliance stores and food markets, Banks. Electric, natural gas and Bell telephone also had stores/offices. Murphy and Woolworth Department stores. Three Drug stores. Six Movies, Most open year round. Ten cab services. Three shoe repair shops. Grace Oil. Sears and Roebucks. Thirty nine Real Estate offices. Many Dentist and Doctors’ offices. Contractors, Electricians and Plumbers were located on the Island. I could go on, but my point being until the nineteen eighties the Wildwoods were a thriving year round Island. It was the hub for Cape May County. All the business owners and their employees worked and lived on the Island. They shopped locally, supporting the businesses they and their friends worked for. There were no shopping centers in Rio Grande and no Hamilton Mall. Retail has really changed now with the computer. You can sit in your house and order anything. I for one, still yearn for the good old days, walking down Pacific Ave, buying some things, meeting friends, catching up on some gossip. Just enjoying life.

Sheila & Rick’s Summer Nites B&B Annual Costume Party was a success this year with lots of fun characters ringing in the New Year 2020

Mayor Don Cabrera took a holiday run with some of the Best in the Crest, 2019

58 “The sea ... no matter what you say about it, there is always that which you can’t.”

Memories of Kathryn Filippo by the Sea

Kathryn with Ricky & Kathy c.1960

Thank you to Marie Filippo for sharing your beloved mother with us. These photos are a reflection of how much she loved being a mother and life itself!

Kathryn Filippo was a true artist who embraced living by the sea. She loved to paint and take photos. She had a special place in her heart for Wildwood and was truly grateful to call it home. Perhaps because of her great love for Wildwood, she happily took photos around the island year round, but especially loved her role of “Island Photographer” in the winter (long before the iPhone and social media made picture taking so popular!) One of her photos won an honorable mention in the Hot Shots contest and was printed in tourism brochures. Clearly knowledgeable in all things Wildwood, Kathryn naturally worked at the Wildwood Information Tourism office on the Boardwalk as well as on the Ferry, at the Lighthouse and Urie’s Gift Shop.She was the proud mom of five children, Marie, Bill, Ricky, Kathy and Mickey. The family considered themselves blessed to have their brother Mickey, who had Downs Syndrome. Sadly, Mickey passed away suddenly in 1999, a devastating loss for everyone, but especially Kathryn, who never recovered from her grief. She passed away just four years later at 70 years old. Her children have found peace knowing their mother was happily reunited with Mickey and hold onto the memories she left behind, right here in her beloved home by the sea…

Kathryn in front of a painting of her family’s house on 25th St. from about 1958 to 1964. The Filippo’s lived on one floor while renting out the other two.

While Kathryn worked aboard the Ferry, she captured photos of boats that she would love to paint. Above is a painting of the Capt. Sharky

THE BOARDWALK Photo Booth

Kathryn Filippo is remembered by her children for her playful spirit that she instilled in them... as seen in all of these fun boardwalk photobooth “Selfies”

Thank you Marie Filippo for sharing your wonderful family memories of growing up in Wildwood

Happy Summer 2021

“In today’s rush, we all think too much...seek too much...want too much...and forget about the joy of just being.” ~Eckhart Tolle

609-522-4189 Take Out Available!

Live Music on the Deck

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5 MILES of Smiles!

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Delivering fresh, pressed articles of clothing to Cape May County’s best dressed since 1987

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FULL-SERVICE QUALITY DRY CLEANING New Alterations Department Specializing in Bridal Gowns Fr. Wallace with Todd DeSatnick & Kevin Quinn at their new real estate office in North Wildwood. Kevin holds a statue of St. Joseph for good wishes (photo 2020)

Pick-Up & Delivery Service Same Day Service • Repairs 3209 NEW JERSEY AVE. WILDWOOD 609-522-6291 • 609-522-4499

Michael’s FABRICARE

Michael Cummiskey, owner MichaelsFabricare.com

10%OFF Must present this coupon for discount Not Valid Sat. - Sun. & Holidays 9am - 2pm 7% with Credit Cards THE SUN

This is Dan & Judy who were kind enough to have me sit and join them for our delicious breakfast at Salty Mermaid’s soft grand opening. (May 2, 2021) We all enjoyed our selections!

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Alicia, Lee & little Dottie Park “Love love love The Sun” and their NEW home near the Seawall

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60 “Anyone can be cool, but Awesome takes practice.” ~quoteablecards.com T he L aw O ffice

5 MILES

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Phone: 609.522.6633 Fax: 609.522.5030

of Smiles!

A day without smiling is a day wasted.

Specializing in Divorce & Family Personal Injury Traffic Real Estate Wills, Estates & Trusts

100 E. Rio Grande Ave. seth@fuscellarolaw.com Wildwood, NJ 08260

hair

(L-R) Incognito: Richie Giandrea, NWBP Chief Tony, Dave Richart (80th birthday) and Vinny DeRitis (the one & only masked photo in The Sun)

A STYLING SALON specializing in

The Trottnow family’s little rockstar Sammi singing with Rhett at Joe Joe’s... Such talent!! Here she is with her mom Stephanie & proud grandfather Albert

CUTS. BLOWOUTS. COLORS. KERATINS. BALAYAGES. NAILS

609.522.HAIR 609.522. HAIR (4247) 6401 New Jersey Avenue • Wildwood Crest, NJ www.hairwildwoodcrest.com HAIR is sure to Exceed Your Expectations.

Serving Cape May County for 3 GENERATIONS!

Specializing in Gas Forced Air Heat & Central Air Conditioning

Dedicated to High Quality Service Since 1948 The Sun was endorsed by Wildwoods favorite pro, Wilmont Jones

Trottnow sisters Meg & Lynn

NJ License # 13VH01834100

5104 PACIFIC AVENUE, WILDWOOD • 609-522-0121 • FAX 522-7313

WWW.BOWMANSAIR.COM

800-638-4393

The Green’s Bikes Breakfast Club at the Hot Spot, waiting for The Sun to come out!

The first Trottnow sister Mariann with her husband George

Happy Summer 2021

“Faith teaches a new math, which subtracts old ways and adds new thoughts, for sharing with God divides troubles and multiplies possibilities.”

~Christine A. Dallman

5 MILES

Celebrating 51 Delicious Years!

of Smiles!

Dear whoever is reading this, you’re beautiful and someone out there is crazy about you. So Smile. Life is too short to be unhappy.

The Little’s & the Cummins on the Wildwood boardwalk in 1956 Tom & Larry Cummins, Bob, Marilyn, Cass and John Little Harry Henley and his sisters having fun in Wildwood by-the-sea in the early 70s

rant eout u a t s Re nd Tak a akery

Indoor & Outdoor Dining Expanded Patio with Outdoor Bar Bocce Court & Entertainment

New Jersey and Bennett Avenues, Wildwood, NJ 609-522-7894 WWW.THERAVIOLIHOUSEWILDWOOD.COM

“Be a beautiful cupcake in a world full of muffins.”

Gigi & John Deegler - 2021 is Gigi’s 28th year on the Tram Car!

Dan & Susan of Hershey’s celebrating their Sweet 16th year at the southend of the Wildwood Boardwalk!

From Michael Margolis from Vintage Phila. facebook group “All of us in the photo were cousins or siblings. We all lived in Phila but our Grandparents had a house in Wildwood N. J. Where we visited in the Summer. The house was located at 329 E. Montgomery ave. The house was just about across from the Boardwalk at that time. There was a Man and his wife who had a candy store in their front window. We use to order candy at the window and say put it on my Aunt Rose’s account. We use to order candy everyday. The bill was usually about 2 cents to a nickel tops. The house was right across from the Wildwood tennis courts. No heat in the house. The photo was taken over 77 years ago. The house was only occupied in the summer as there was no heat in the house. Everyone in the photo is still alive today. I am in the photo on the left standing next to my cousin Roselee. As we became young teenagers. We all worked during the summer. The boys shined shoes and sold newspapers. The girls were all working as waitress’. None of us had working papers if there was such a thing in those days.”

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5600 Pacific Ave. Wildwood Crest, NJ • 609-522-5600

62 Build me a home by the sea. . . where the wild wind blows and the birds fly free. .

The Doctor’s Prescription: a “Home by-the-Sea”. . .

Young Charles Cook on the back steps of his cottage c1925

As is true of the greatest Wildwood stories, there’s an undercurrent of love

for the island that tells of how people have always been drawn to the healing power of saltwater & sunshine. At the advice of his physician, Charles’ parents were told that the health benefits found in the fresh, healing saltwater, would be the best medicine for their son, they purchased a lot in the Anglesea section of North Wildwood and built a lovely beach cottage. Now in its 6th generation, this quaint & humble cottage, still residing at 2 Mace Ave. in the Anglesea section of North Wildwood, has amazingly stood the test of time, enduring many coastal storms, including the infamous Storm of ’62. Evidently it did young Charles good to be by the sea! He was not expected to survive childhood, but thanks to the magic of Wildwood by-the-Sea, he lived a good long life. This is the account of Charles and his summer cottage as told by his cousin Steve, the current keeper of 2 Mace Ave.

Young Charles with Charles A. and Maddie Hawkins Cook c1916

Charles and father Charles. c1925

This history of the house at 2 Mace Avenue begins around 1920. Charles L Cook [b1913], son of Charles A. and Martha (Maddie Hawkins) Cook, contracted Polio at the age of 3 during the 1916 epidemic. There were 1006 cases and 307 deaths in Philadelphia from that outbreak. At the time the healing powers of ocean saltwater was widely heralded and Charles parents built the house to pursue this therapy to appease young Charles suffering. A pair of small wooden wagons were used to cart Charles to Hereford Inlet. Young Charles was not supposed to survive his childhood but lived to nearly 70 years old. He worked his entire life including an extended time at the parts counter at Gegnas ChryslerPlymouth in Philadelphia. He was a big Bob Gegnas fan who he said stopped by often to talk; “Bob is a great guy” he would say. There is no telling whether the saltwater was the cure but the pictures of young Charles at that time and place show a happy young man.

Charles L Cook c1923 The wooden carts remained in the garage for many years.

Good times on the front walk c1925

2 Mace Ave, the early years

Charles and father Charles. c1925 Young Charles mother Maddie was a Hawkins. The house has been passed down through the years from Maddie after the death of her husband: first to young Charles, then to my grandmother Emily ‘Marion’ Hawkins Tomlinson his first cousin, then to my parents Carl and Pauline Tomlinson - the current owners. While Maddie’s father was a Hawkins, her mother was a Tomlinson. My cousin Debbie Mooers is also a Hawkins. She and her husband Jim are the proprietors of the Grassy Sound Marina at the north end of the island. Debbie and I share ’Hawkins’ Great Grandparents and ‘Tomlinson’ Great-Great-Great Grandparents in this tree. From the time of Maddie and Charles, six generations have enjoyed this place.

2 Mace Ave, the dormer was added shortly after the house was built

Happy Summer 2021

“If stories come to you, care for them. And learn to give them away where they are needed. Sometimes a person needs a story more than food to stay alive.”

. . .The 6th Generation at 2 Mace Ave., Anglesea

Barry Lopez

c2010. The house is the last original house standing on this block. The other four houses are now 3 story towers. The house has not changed much over the years. It can accommodate many guests. The second floor remains one big room, no ceiling, no insulation, no wallboard; simply studs and exposed wall/ roof Pine underlayment from 100 years ago. A dormer was added to the front not long after the house was built likely to increase the space for an additional bed. The stairs to the second floor were in the kitchen. Due to the limited space these steps were more like a ladder than stairs as we know them today; very steep. Up to 1983, the only shower was outside under the bathroom window. It never had any kind of privacy enclosure that I am aware of. It didn’t seem to bother anyone. The back door entered to a small storage area, then a second door to enter the kitchen. There was not a refrigerator in this house for a long time. There was an ice box in the kitchen. The Ice House was located roughly where the McDonalds used to be a short distance away. On arrival, the procedure was to purchase a block of ice for the weekend. My father recalls that once it was time to return home the ice box was just starting to get cold. A detached garage was added prior to 1940. It has a lot of character. There are high water events marked on the interior walls. While some appear to be 20 inches or more, water has never reached the first floor of the house.

Mace Ave. ~Over time, paths through sandy brush gave way to well-manicured lawns.

Maddie Cook, Charles A Cook the prankster, Charles L Cook, Hazel Gotshall (friend), Charles L Cook, Carl Tomlinson Sr. c1950 Carl Tomlinson Sr. c1972

Carl, Jr. and Pauline Tomlinson, current owners. c1953 My parents gave the place a makeover in 1983. New roof, siding, windows, back deck, front balcony, and a new kitchen and bathroom. The shed at the back of the house was sacrificed for an indoor bath and shower. A new powder room was added to the 2nd floor. While it added a few comforts, the basic structure and layout remained largely the same.

The front porch has always been the gathering place at the shore c1930 Marion and Carl Tomlinson Sr. c1950

Carl Tomlinson Jr and mother Marion Tomlinson c1940 On the front porch. L to R - Maddie Cook, Gertie Hawkins my great grandmother, and her daughter, my grandmother Marion Tomlinson c1940

The buildings in the distance to the left are on Spruce Ave the main road out of town to the north. I spy HENRi Js .

Not that long ago but very different today c1980

64 “It was one of the loveliest days in early autumn, and the general atmosphere had a tendency to subdue every feeling of the heart...”

~ Charles Lanman

5 MILES

Smiles!

Life is a mirror… Smile back at it

T h r o w i n g i t b a c k f o r 1 7 Ye a r s ! The pages in The Sun are reminders that old photos really do tell stories....

Throwback to Flag Football in the 80s

Row 1: Jack G., Ant C., Joe D., Mike B., Joey S., Pat L. Row 2: Johnny F., Ken G., Carl G., Steve C. Row 3: Chuck C., Boz, Mark R., Dave A. Row 4: Chris P. & Tom Thanks for the photo Boz!

1976 Photo from the Wildwood Historic Museum

Left to Right: Alan Szyszko, Tom Griffen, Bob Love, Pete Salo the Gull, Starboard Side Middle: Eugene Reidy, Jimmy “Shuffy” Singer, Marc Camillo, Larry Fee, Jimmy MacManus

Karen amd her children love to walk the seawall and watch the sunrise: Gabriella, Isabella & Christopher

RIP “Uncle” Charlie Neill, I am forever thankful for knowing you... Through all the stories you brought to me of your brothers... Jim’s Clam Bar, and Richard and Bill and your granny Emma Hankins who cooked for the men who were building the Hereford Lighthouse... I’ve learned so much about the rich history of our island and have been able to share them with all of The Sun’s readers. ‘Til we meet again...

Throughout the long winter months in particular, The Wildwood Sun Facebook page stays active by publishing those alwayspopular throwback photos and stories, warming us up and reminding us that summer is just over the horizon. Oftentimes, the memories one photo inspires ignites a great conversation, happily reminding us of what the Sun is all about! Our best stories often begin with a tattered photo, taking us all on a trip back in time to those cherished Wildwood Days...What stories are your photos waiting to tell? In a Facebook post I wrote, “When the movie LIFEGUARD was released in 1976, the marquee of this Wildwood movie theater read, “Every Girl’s Dream, Lifeguard,” while guards from the WBP came out to help promote it. WBP Alumni John Teofelak commented:

“One of my favorite nights as a Wildwood lifeguard! We delivered the movie reel (remember those?) to the theatre and blew our whistles throughout the movie. (Pete Salo) the Gull, Shuffy, Marc Camillo, Larry Fee, Eugene Reidy, Bob Love and Jimmy Mac were front and center in all things WBP in those days.” Their main purpose may be to protect swimmers, but lifeguards become our friends for life... it’s always so great to see them again after these solitary winter beach days. Michael Mac commented, “Love this memory!” and named his fellow WBP alumni. #lifeguardsforlife Jim & Sara Waldie celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary onboard the Mustang with their family in the 1960s.... Brothers. Chuck, George & Jimmy Burns grew up as mates on their uncle Capt. John Gorley’s Mustang every childhood summer ~ Submitted by Sally Burns

Dee C. wrote, “They really were summer Adonis’... so handsome!”

Happy Summer 2021

"The secret of happiness is to count your blessings while others are adding up their troubles."

~William Penn

Churches in the Wildwoods Printed with compliments of The SUN with blessings.

To update your listing call 609-522-2721

Anglesea Baptist Church 3rd & Atlantic Ave. 609-522-2951

Sunday 10:30am

Eve. Prayer Meeting 6pm Weds Family Bible 7pm

Asbury A.M.E. Church

Young & New Jersey Ave. 609-729-5584

Sunday 11:00am

NOTRE DAME DE LA MER PARISH

Assumption RC Church

7110 Seaview Ave. Wildwood Crest

609-522-4114

Sat. 4:30pm Sun. 8:30 & 10:30 Mon-Fri 8:30am

Beth Judah Temple

Pacific & Spencer Aves. 609-522-7541 Shabbat Services Saturday 9:30am

bethjudahtemple.org

Eureka Baptist Church 142 W. Spencer Ave. 609-522-1028 Sunday School 9:45am Sunday Service 11am Wed Prayer 7-8pm

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

St. Ann’s RC Church

2810 Atlantic Ave. 609-522-5000

2900 Atlantic Ave. Wildwood 609-522-2709

8am Spoken Service w/Communion 10:30am Traditional Service w/Communion ~ Sunday School.

Sat. 4:30pm Sun. 7:00, 8:30 & 10:30 Spanish Mass: 7:00PM

HIGH SCHOOL MASSES HAVE BEEN DISCONTINUED

Third Sunday of each Month 10:30am Contemporary Blended Service w/ Communion

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox 301 Anglesea Ave., 609-522-0152 Orthos 9am Divine Liturgy 10am

Central Bible Church 18th Ave. & Central Ave. 609-522-5917 Sunday 11am & 6pm

Angel Visit Baptist 435 W. Garfield Ave 609-522-0056

Crest Community Church

Sunday Worship 10:45am

Crocus & Pacific Aves

609-522-1618 Sunday 9:30am Breakfast, Worship and the WORD! FOOD PANTRY, SOUP

26th & Central Ave. 609-522-8389 Sun. Morning Liturgy 10am

KITCHEN & CLOTHING ROOM: Mon 4:30-6:30

First Baptist Church Maple & Atlantic Ave. 609-522-2981

West Wildwood Bible Church

Sunday School 10am Coffee Hour 10am

9 Neptune Avenue Sunday 9am

Sunday Service 11am

The Carpenter Shop

tcsministries.org

4312 Boardwalk 609-522-2307 NIGHTLY PROGRAMS Mon-Sat 8PM SUN EVE Service 7PM

We would like to take the time to thank all our health care professionals, first responders, and brave Americans who keep our country strong.

North Wildwood United Methodist Church 2nd & Central Ave. 609-522-2271 Pastor Kate Aaronson Hymn Sing: 9:15am Worship: 9:30am

4505 Park Blvd. 609-523-1444 Sunday 10am Sunday Bible Study 2p Tues. Intensive Care Prayer 6:30pm

THE BOARDWALK CHAPEL

Thank You!

St. Simeon’s by-the-Sea Episcopal

HOPE Herald Building Rio Grande 609-886-7022

PREGNANCY CENTER 321 West Ave. Ocean City 609-398-9449

Greater Wildwood Yacht Club Sailing & Boating Club

Warm

Friendly

Casual

For more information visit our website www.GreaterWildwoodYachtClub.org or call 609-522-0969

66 “Tight lines, warm breezes, good friends, plenty of bait, it doesn’t get any better. . .” ~Happy fishing!

Grassy Sound Marina

13 Old N Wildwood Blvd. North Wildwood, NJ 08260 (609) 846-1400 Boat Slips & Rentals • Bait & Tackle • Fishing & Crabbing Pier • Gift Shop

Wishin’ for Good fishin’ with CAPT. GARY SLOAN

Hello and Welcome Fellow Anglers!

FLOUNDER TOURNAMENT SATURDAY, JUNE 26TH

GAS DOCK

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I know you are all awaiting patiently for the fishing season to get into high gear. I hope everyone enjoyed the winter. Most cannot wait for it to be in the rearview mirror. I believe spring has not been a real treat for many hoping for an early start with the season of fishing. I will confess in the spirit of honesty, that I spent most of the winter in Florida. The fishing season never ended for me. I’m not trying to brag but I will attach some pics of our Florida fishing. I must give a shout out to Dave Bowman who put me on some good fishing. Well, I cannot blame weather for everything because the fishing time have been cut back due to regulations. At the time of this writing Seabass and flounder will be opened in the latter part of May. The seabass will bite thru May into June. The

Catching a Florida sunset

CANAL SIDE CRABBING BAIT & & FISHING TACKLE SINCE 1947 SUPPLIES SUPPLIES CLAMS DAILY LIVE - STEAMED CRABS - SHRIMP NATALI VINEYARDS Wines by the Bottle

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Capt. Gary with a 20 lb. Redfish caught while out fishing with his friend Dave Bowman of Bowman’s Cooling & Heating

flounder also will show up in the back bay waters by late May. This is a great opportunity to get the young anglers for some actions without rough sea conditions. Those memories will last for a lifetime. I will bet the picture of a happy youngster holding his catch with a winning smile. That picture will allow you to relive that precise time for the rest of your life. This is the time to make it happen. Boat Rentals are available for your day on the water. We will have some migratory species like Blues, Stripers, Tog and maybe some Mackerel. We have experienced some of the best drum fishing in the last 5 years. They should start biting in the Delaware Bay in May. The ocean temperature has been somewhat below what we generally experience. Stripers can be caught in the back bays around bridges, rockpiles and in the Surf. Bucktails with paddle tails or cut bunker can produce some fish. Some party boats and charters have been running for tog trips. Check in with any tackle stores with information of what is being caught locally. If you have some competitive spirit you can enter into a local Drum Tournaments in the Delaware Bay. June brings the local offshore shark tournaments. The Mako sharks really can give you a thrilling experience once on the hook and line. They will often jump clear out of the water by 10 feet. The line screams off the reel as the mako surges thru the water with incredible speed. The decking of a large mako will usually have your heartbeat pumping. They are totally unpredictable, and they will swim right up to the boat acting with curiosity and no fear. The offshore fishing in June will also bring the first pelagic species with mostly tuna fish. Bluefin, Yellowfin are the most common early in their season. Charters are well equipped to give your group a great day. I hope we can teach our youth about the beauty of the Ocean. This local jewel of nature is in our backyard. Breathing in that fresh salty air creates a relaxing environment. The ocean experience can have you thinking of your existence in this universe and how we relate our time in this world.

God Bless,

Captain Gary Sloan, North Wildwood, NJ

Happy Summer 2021

“ Music is the divine way to tell beautiful poetic things to the heart.“ – Cellist conductor Pablo Casals

JOHN PRIMERANO’S

Wildwood Summer Memories

Carini

Family Ristorante & Pizzeria

The Sanzone Family of Wildwood Crest are here to serve you along with their staff!

Inside & Outside Dining • Delivery • Catering

OPEN DAILY 11AM • LUNCH & DINNER BYOB

John Primerano as 4 year old on the beach with his father Vincent, 1954

The first photo I know of my long as-

sociation with The Wildwoods is of a little boy on Schellenger Avenue beach. (Above) I’ve heard Wildwood called Philly’s working-class vacation destination and that fit my family perfectly. To us, Wildwood was Las Vegas and the Riviera rolled into one. I remember how much I loved flying high on the swings near the end of the boardwalk, and riding a wooden horse as music played while taking me in circles on the Merry-Go-Round at Oak and the Boardwalk. I also remember the Arcade near that Merry-Go-Round that frightened me as I walked through it with my parents. There was a Native American Indian in full buckskin and headdress regalia outside one of the games in the Casino Arcade. I don’t know if he even was a real Indian, but in those days of western movies and early television shows, I was ready to “circle the wagons!” Besides the sand and the sea, the beach held a special fascination for me. My mother would pack lunches for our family, but there was something else to which I looked forward to. “Fudgie, wudgie! Take your tongue on a sleigh ride!”, the man with the dry-ice packed ice cream cooler intoned as he trekked across the beach. How difficult a job it seemed to me and I hoped I could lighten his load just a little by getting one of those treats he carried. This spelled WILDWOOD to me. Just as much as the beach and boardwalk, I remember being excited every year to see the poster-sized colorized photos of the entertainers that hung outside on the walls of The Surf Club. The

Available John Primerano with Tony & Velma Suppa when he entertained for their iconic Thunderbird Lounge idea of those posters being real people inside made a distinct impression on me through my youth as I had already the inclination I wanted one of those posters to someday be of me. Many years later, pictures of me would appear in Wildwood as an entertainer, booked there by the agent, Eddie Suez, a transplanted Wildwood native. Places like HERRMANN’S CAFÉ, ELMER’S and THE THUNDERBIRD INN would become my “summer homes”, not to mention eventually coming down pre- and postseason to appear at Neil’s, The Midtown and Joe Ellis’, (with all its incarnations such as Mickey O’Rourke’s and The D’Continental). I would get to know the Surf Club’s owners, Phil Bonelli and Eddie Rossi, as well as such Wildwood performing staples as Mickey Shaugnessy and Cozy Morley, to name but a few. The dream that began as a vacationing boy came to fruition and to this day, Wildwood still holds a special place in my career and my heart. Though I have moved on with my entertainment career, I still have “sand in my shoes”, as I said to Velma Suppa, my friend and owner of The Thunderbird Inn, where I spent five very enjoyable, entertaining years from 1974 to 1978. And on warm summer nights, these many years later, if I listen really close, I still hear the warning, “Watch the tram car, please!”

Pizza • Pasta • Seafood • Veal Chicken • Steak • Sandwiches New! Breakfast Sandwiches

Thursday Prime Rib Night

609-522-7304 9854 Pacific Ave., Wildwood Crest, NJ www.Cariniwc.com

68 “Man’s law changes with his understanding of man. Only the laws of the spirit remain always the same.” ~ American Indian Proverb, Sioux

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Tom & Pat Stocker’s grandson on his first birthday when they entered him in the Wildwood Baby parade on the Sightseer • Nathan in captain training And Wildwood Crest Police Capt. Tom Stocker

C A P T. S T O C K E R ’ S S I G H T S E E R SAIL S AGAIN THANKS TO COVID

When the world was collectively dealing with Covid, Tom Stocker, sea captain, retired Captain of the Wildwood Crest Police Dept. and grandson of Captain Otto Stocker of the iconic Sightseer, set sail on a personal, seaworthy adventure. His mission: To complete a project he began during his Wildwood High School days in the early 70s. Tom kept his small to-scale replica of his grandfather’s Sightseer sitting on “dry dock” (a.k.a. a shelf in the garage) for 20 years, quietly inspiring his future quest, before revisiting it for his grandfather’s funeral in April 1993. The replica again would remain shelf bound until March 2020, when our world was put on pause. During the quarantine and pandemic that followed, Tom found himself with hours of unexpected free time, which he wisely used to finish every detail of the boat just as he remembered it as a young boy working as his grandfather’s deck hand. A trip down memory lane inevitably followed. He was reminded of the time he was called to the principal’s office only to find his grandmother Bernice had called because her husband Otto had a full boat to take out and was short a deck hand. Tom also fondly remembers working sideby-side with Chuck Schumann, who also grew up working on the boat and ultimately bought it from Captain Otto in 1978. (Read story in this issue). Tom enjoyed every detail of the project, using new technology such as a 3D plastic printer that took 55 hours just to make 185 seats. His labor of love turned into a family project, with his wife Pat and daughter

CAPT. TOM STOCKER searching for the right vintage fluorescent orange paint and a cricut that helped print letters perfectly for the boat name along the canvas-covered railings. King Neptune and the Seahorses, meanwhile, were molded clay. While constructing the perfect tribute to his grandfather, Tom knew his ocean cruise would not be complete without the old tunes Otto played for his guests such as Bridge Over River Kwai, Puff the Magic Dragon and Hawaiian music, so Tom rigged up an iPod to play through a speaker made also from the plastic printer. The motorized, radio-controlled boat is at last ready to set sail. Tom and Pat enjoy their time on the water, sailing with their family and teaching their grandkids the ropes of seafaring, with young Nathan Otto already in captain training, continuing the proud family tradition of life by the sea…

CAPT. TOM STOCKER’S SIGHTSEER ANNUAL HOLLAND/HEALY/STOCKER FAMILY LABOR DAY BOAT RIDE

Happy Summer 2021

“There is a magic about the sea. People are drawn to it. People want to love by it. Swim in it. Play in it. Look at it.” ~Cecilia Ahern

Captain Chuck Schumann by Rachel Rogish

For many, sailing on the Sightseer was tradition, like Jimmy Hogan, who sailed every summer since he was born. Here he is with Capt. Schumann in 1983.

The sea can teach us many things if we would listen. As the world recoils from political and social unrest in the wake of COVD-19, taking a stroll along the strand provides refreshment and inspiration. For Captain Chuck Schumann, the sea is more than a pleasant respite: it has buoyed a career and deeper understanding of our environment. Born in 1944, and raised in Cape May County, Schumann worked on the Big Blue Sightseer Boat since he was 13 years old. Sadly, the iconic boat will no longer cruise the waterways around Five Mile Island due to the economic impact of the Coronavirus. “The Sightseer survived 67 years, but this year, I had to make a very difficult decision. I passed the helm to another so that my family could financially survive,” Schumann wrote in a Facebook post. Floods of emails, messages, and even visits from loyal customers has left this sea captain “humbled” and touched by their support. “It has helped me through this difficult time. It also gives me a reason to plan my next adventure and hope to invite all of you along!” Schumann said. Schumann said he fell in love with the ocean as a child. He worked on the

Sightseer every summer, under the leadership of Captain Otto Stocker. His summers brimmed with sultry breezes, sunsets, and colorful experiences. Schumann eventually went on to higher education and returned with a degree in oceanography. Yet his steps always returned to the docks and the deck of the Sightseer. In the mid-1970s, Schumann took command of the Sightseer, after Captain Stocker and wife Bernice retired. “We survived the fuel embargo, housing crash, hurricanes, and even a few tornadoes,” Schumann reflected. “This (2020) was the first time we couldn’t pay our bills.” Although reconciled to the decision, the captain’s eyes still fill. He told the Sun that his age never affected his decision to sell the Sightseer. What will happen to the iconic boat? Schumann said the boat has been purchased by an entrepreneur from Chicago, Illinois, and will grace the waters of Lake Michigan. The Sightseer will also retain its name. The vessel itself is a converted PT-486 boat, used for special missions in WWII. It was

decommissioned in 1947 and purchased by a man in Wildwood Crest before Captain Stocker came along. “Yes, I enjoyed it all, especially being on the ocean in all kinds of weather. I loved the storms, the wind and the occasional passing hurricanes. All these challenges of nature, but most of all, I enjoyed the passengers, young and old, but especially the children, Schumann said. His route began in Otten’s Harbor, encircling the Wildwoods, and also stretched down to Cape May. Schumann said the marine life determined his route on each particular day. From wales to dolphins, ospreys to jelly fish, and other creatures, there was always something to see and learn while on the Sightseer. In fact, Schumann wishes that the Wildwoods would “capitalize” on its natural resources. He once gave lectures and demonstrations on marine life, free of charge in Wildwood Crest. From crabbing to building sandcastles that were “more than piles of sand,” Schumann invested in the next generation without taking a penny from taxpayers.

With changes in the environment and the sea itself, Schumann desires the public to live with the ocean, not block it out. “I expect that many of you, who we would see year after year, will still need your time with the ocean and have sea fever. I’m sure your summer sightseeing trip would get you through to the following summer. There is hope!” Schumann said. For those who miss their annual Sightseer journey, he encourages them to read “Sea Fever,” a poem by John Mansfield: “I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by And the wheel’s kick and the wind’s song and the white sail’s shaking And a grey mist on the sea’s face, and a grey dawn breaking.”

Mansfield, an Englishman, wrote of his experiences as a seafarer before becoming poet laureate in 1930. The world has changed in many ways, pulled by the currents of time, but we can learn from Schumann who is looking for his next adventure. The sea still calls to us and rest can be found in Wildwood by the Sea.

70 “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop to look around every once in a while, you could miss it.” ~Ferris Bueller Ione Laffey took The Sun with her on a visit to Andersonville Prison of War Camp in Georgia... A first for The Sun!

Travels with

Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time. ~Motto of the Baltimore Grotto

by-the–sea

Steve, Sandi, Linda & Mike Kolla with The Sun @ Saratoga Springs Racetrack

Diane Henfey & Pat Tarleton took The Sun on a Viking Baltic Cruise to Estonia Russia and Sweden. Here they are in the Red Square at the Kremlin in front of St Basil Cathedral. They had to snap the photo quickly because Putin’s police frown on holding papers to take pictures with for fear of demonstrating against their government. The girls were so happy to be able to send this photo to be published!

Gina & brother Frank & Mary Ann Perrucci took The Sun to the Sunshine state!

Jon & Marian Stevenson took a copy of The Sun to Puerto Rico on a trip down Memory Lane... to when they were first married and lived there. Look for this fun-loving couple out delivering The Sun or driving the tram car!

She had 2 stories published in this issue! Thank you so much Anita Hirsch for 17 years of contributions of The Sun! Frankie & his big cousin Ben share a mutual love for all-things-Wildwood and sand-coated and Sunny!

Emilio and Sherri have been enjoying Wildwood every summer since 2000. They love reading THE SUN when they stay at the PanAm and mingle with Wildwood’s finest Harry D ! They brought their last issue on vacation to read again when in Tortola on their last cruise, right before the Pandemic !

Krakow, Poland Rich and Margie Wilde took The Sun to Clontarf Castle in Dublin, Ireland before heading to Krakow Poland in June to visit family. West Deptford NJ residents, formerly Port Richmond natives... the Wilde’s love nothing more than to call North Wildwood their home in the summer.

Editor Note: Thank you Ray Stingle for stopping by when I was filling The Sun box and thank you for connecting me to the Kretschmer’s! Their wonderful West Wildwood story and old photo collection of 4 generations appeared last summer, with some more great old photos coming this summer! Thank you for loving The Sun so much!

Natalie Rowan wasn’t going to Monticello Winery in Virginia without taking her Sun for The Sun!

Sean McMullan (R) & his Anglesea Pub crew took The Sun to Dingle, Ireland

Happy Summer 2021

“ The greatest gifts are not material – it’s the stories we share between us, stories that build bonds… And make us feel connected, stories we can pass down to our children. “ ~Anon

submitted by Francesca Mastropierro

As fate would have it, the night before his passing in August 2020, his granddaughter Francesca asked him to lower the TV’s volume so she could read him an article published in The Sun about a couple who had passed on, leaving many happy Wildwood memories behind, never realizing she would be contacting The Sun the very next day to honor him in the best way possible, by sharing his Wildwood story. Poppy passed in his shore house in Wildwood Crest, his very own Happy Place, surrounded by his loving family. Now his family vows to cherish his memory while continuing his legacy all the summers to come, creating new memories inspired by the man who shared his love of Wildwood with all of them.

T H E N AT I O N ’ S O L D E S T A E R I A L A D V E RT I S I N G F I R M

Andre Tomalino, WWII Glider Pilot

One of Paramount Air’s first planes

BARBARA TOMALINO

609-886-9090

it With a y a by Air . . . .

Fla i ..

Lifelong Hoboken, NJ residents Geraldine and Patty, a.k.a. Poppy, spent the past 40 summers in Wildwood. They stayed at the Shalimar Motel for many years before renting in Wildwood Crest for two weeks in July. Like many Wildwood lovers, Pop dreamed of owning a condo in Wildwood Crest along with his son, Patrick. Having achieved that lifetime goal, Pop would spend mornings reading the paper and The Sun magazine on his balcony while playing the part of self-proclaimed lifeguard. He loved blasting Frank Sinatra from that balcony, often to the disapproval of his family. When not out on his melody-inspiring view of the world, he could be found in the kitchen, making his famous “spaghetti and shrimps” for dinner and about 20 “potato and egg sandwiches,” a specialty his family looked forward to all year long, meant to be savored on the beach. A true ocean lover, Pop loved body surfing, sometimes so much so that he often headed into the ocean with his iPod shuffle still in his pocket! When on the Boardwalk, his family had to steer him clear of the crane game, his arcade obsession, as he refused to leave until he actually won!

PARAMOUNT AIR SINCE 1945

A Place in The Sun for Poppy

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72 “May you live every day of your life.” ~ Jonathan Swift

Our Gal Toni

Barry’s Buns

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Dorothy / Rob Kulisek photos

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Toni & Mom Catherine Ocean Towers, 2001

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In July of 1969, my mother and I walked the Wildwood Crest neighborhood near our favorite spot on the beach. For many years we spent a week or two at her aunts in the Villas. My great-aunt Catherine and Uncle Jim Mangold were selling their home at 248 W. Atlantic Ave. We would need a place to stay the following summer. We ended up at Seaview and Lavender and saw a mom and pop-like place with a sign reading “Stahl’s Garden Court Apartments.” We were greeted by the most beautiful smile and voice. It was Mrs. Antonie Stahl. She and her husband Jake were the owners. “Toni” gave us the grand tour. She spoke with the most beautiful German accent, which made everything she said seem like a song. Just listening to her made YOU smile. We took a brochure and headed down Lavender Road to where my dad and brothers were camped on the beach. That chain of events began a loving friendship that lasted a lifetime. We spent many vacations at Toni and Jake’s. Each night, after their chores were done, they would sit out and talk with the tenants and kids. Jake would be in Philadelphia some weeks, as he played with the Philadelphia Orchestra and had rehearsals, which explained why we heard violin music now and then, but Jake never made a big deal out of it. Toni and Jake didn’t go to the beach too often. Such is the life of an owner, but we loved every minute spent with them. They sold in the mid 80’s, but then lived across the street to be near Jake’s dad. Jake eventually fell ill and passed away, but not before meeting my second daughter. Toni was lost without her Jake, but somehow she carried on. After retirement Toni could be seen each day on her bike. Early morning route: Lavender

Toni and Jake (seated) and dad Leo,1978 Rd. to boardwalk’s end, then to Anglesea. Out to Cape May Bridge she’d ride—with a stop at the Nature Preserve TO DO HER MORNING EXERCISES! Many a morning she’d “allow” me to accompany her, but the woman wiped me out! She also had a shorter, nightly routine. She was back at Sunset Lake to watch the sunset before heading home, encountering friends EVERYWHERE. You’d have thought she was the mayor! My mother and I kept in touch with Toni year round. When we’d come to town, we’d always head straight to 300 E. Lavender Rd for a lengthy visit. At some point, Toni DID return to the beach. She sat with us each morning to watch our (now) three daughters play. She and my parents would pick up where they left off. In the summer of 2001 we brought my mother to Ocean Towers to vacation with us. It was her birthday and we surprised her with a cake and a visit with Toni. Sadly, my mom passed away not long after. As long as Toni’s health held up, you could find her on those morning bike rides and nightly outings. I’m convinced it kept her going well into her 90s. There she was, early morning, walking the boardwalk, but now with an aide. Eventually she moved to an assisted living facility. We visited last summer to find her in good spirits, laughing and reminiscing over old photos. Toni passed away peacefully on February 26, 2021, almost one month before her 98th birthday. To us, she will always be our best Wildwood Crest memory.

Happy Summer 2021

“If there is a heaven for me, I am sure it has a beach attached to it.” ~Jimmy Buffet

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Diamond Beach Patrol Race for Autism Thurs. july 1, 2021

how we used to find our friends

SINCE 1979 Thursday, July 1st at 6:15pm, in front of the Grand at Diamond Beach on Rochester Ave. in Wildwood Crest. After party gathering at Star Beach Bar in front of ICONA Resorts.

Members of Diamond Beach Patrol with our “4 Paws For Ability” Team of Kendall & her dog Ferdinand. Options to Donate: Venmo: DBP-1 www.mightycause.com/story/Diamondbeachpatrol2021 Checks Payable To: “4 Paws for Ability”

“Diamond Beach Patrol Lifeguard Tournament” for Autism’s first-ever lifeguard race in Diamond Beach, took place on June 21, 2019, under the direction of Michael Drumm from Ocean Rescue in Diamond Beach. In the midst of so many event cancellations last year, Drumm was able to host his 2nd annual race on June 26th, 2020. The race contributes to “4 Paws for Ability,” an organization that enriches the lives of autistic children with service support dogs. Beach Patrols from throughout South Jersey will compete. Harvey Cedars BP on Long Beach Island are the returning champions this year.

LeT’S HaVe SOMe FUN IN ‘21 !

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74 “The words of the mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom flows up from artesian springs.” ~ Proverbs 18:4

The History of Wildwood water utility Serving the Wildwoods since 1910

Water Works Pumping Station Now & Then Have you ever taken notice of the Wildwood Water Works Pumping Station, a wonderful, historic building residing on Rt. 47? Did you know the pumping station has served customers with fresh water since 1910? The 111-year old building holds the distinction of being the sole pumping station for all of the Wildwoods, as well as parts of Rio Grande. Picture a hot, summer day. Following that blissful day at the beach, you hop into your favorite outdoor shower. Do you stop to think where that fresh water is coming from (keeping in mind that you’re on a barrier island surrounded by salt water?) Would you believe our infamous pumping station provides up to 9 million gallons, which is the highest amount ever recorded for just one day on July 4, 2018? According to Wildwood Water Utility Director Michael McIntyre, the demand for water usage varies according to the month. “During January, February, March, the usage varies between 1-2 million gallons a day. Then it slowly increases to about 6 million by Memorial Day, and more than 8 million around July.” Besides the numerous wells that surround the Water Works Pumping Station, 4 Aquifer Storage Recovery (ASR) wells on the island come in handy to help meet the summer water supply demand and are only used in July and August. During the other months, the ASR well supply is being recharged, pumping in fresh water while pumping out any salt. The threat of Saltwater intrusion has increased efforts to plan for future supply, with test wells dug along the railroad tracks in anticipation of a wellfield capable of pumping 3.5 million gallons a day. Seeing the operation inside the building with its maze of pumps and pipes, and knowing the fresh, purified water travels through two large pipes buried beneath the ground across the bay to the Wildwoods, creates an even greater appreciation for something we so easily take for granted. With saltwater naturally taking center stage this summer, let’s remember all we have to be thankful for during these balmy days, courtesy of our very own Wildwood Water Works Pumping Station.

Historic photos of water utility at Pine Ave. & New Jersey in Wildwood, NJ

Historic photos from the collection of the Wildwood Water Utility

Happy Summer 2021

“Water is the most essential element of life, because without water, you can’t make coffee.” ~Anon.

Wildwood water utility annual fire plug flush Every year beginning April 1st, Tim Kane, Chief of Wildwood Water Utility for over 30 years and Joe Pelan, Assistant Chief along with a crew of men, set out to flush approximately 750 fire hydrants in the Wildwoods. This project is necessary in order to flush out the iron that accumulates in the pipes from not being used. The project usually takes about a month, and a schedule is always posted to notify everyone.

“Catch Ya Later Joe”

“We’re just a Little Bar on a Big Island”

FIREHOUSE TAVERN Park Blvd. at Pine Ave. Wildwood

609-729-9487 Try Our Homemade Pork & Spinach Sand-

Rich Crean, Wildwood Water Utility’s newest employee

Joe Pelan, Assistant Chief of Wildwood Water Utility, with Frank Froio on Garfield Ave.

FIREHOUSE TAVERN 2015 ~ Benny Goodbread, Freddy Mayer & their good buddy Joe Bukowski (L - R)

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Joe Bukowski on Feb. 16, 2021. Joe, an US Air Force member, was stationed in Korea and served in Vietnam. He began his law enforcement career as a Wildwood summer police officer. He was a Senior Correction Officer for the state of NJ at Bayside Prison, notably the tag shop, where he worked for almost 30 years. He was elected Vice President of the PBA and later elected President of Local 105, proudly serving nearly 5,000 members. Only in a beach town do you have a beach ball for a water tank!

Wildwood Water Utility Director Michael McIntyre also oversees projects such as the recent makeover of all the water towers on the island. Working together with the indiviual boroughs, the creative endeavors resulted in the beautification of our community. The towers also serve as great landmarks from land and sea.

• Hot & Cold Sandwiches • Package Goods • Ice Cold Beer

Joe, a generous man with a tremendous sense of humor, was also a huge fan of The Sun. I will always remember his kind words about his “favorite paper.” Sending love and prayers to his wife, Lisa, children Joe & Alyssa, grandson Daxson, the Lauriello & Bukowski families and his friends, who were like family, at his favorite island spot, The Firehouse Tavern, where he will forever be remembered as “Catch Ya Later Joe.”

76 “ The day you decide to do it is your lucky day.” ~Fortune cookie

McMichael’s Summers on the Sound 1948-1991 As the countless longtime Wildwood lovers among us can attest, driving into North Wildwood through Grassy Sound is like being transported into another world, where carefree days and the feeling of home await. While the scenery has significantly changed courtesy of the passage of time (and the bulldozers), the feelings that arise from that drive onto the island are timeless. Wisely knowing what summers by the sea could offer, brothers Wally & Don McMichael built their cottage

at 151 North Wildwood Blvd. in 1948 at the far west end of Grassy Sound. Their summer place was shared with many cousins over the next 40+ years. As we have long since known, when it comes to cozy, Wildwood cottages, the more the merrier! Piling as many kids as possible into a tiny bungalow is one of the greatest memories of anyone who ever had the privilege of growing up at the shore. Life, especially life on the bay, was simpler back then. There wasn’t much to do beyond playing on

THE OLD ROAD INTO NORTH WILDWOOD

boats, swimming, crabbing and fishing, sometimes they’d walk down to Malino’s Ice Cream Stand or up to the old drawbridge to use the pay phone, but, as they realized, their own little world was more than enough for the perfect summer. Sadly, in 1991 when the state built the new highway, the McMichael’s were bought out by eminent domain. Happily, their priceless memories live on, unbroken by our ever-changing landscape.

FINAL PHOTO - EMINENT DOMAIN 1991

Happy Summer 2021

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Happy Summer 2021

“No matter how little money you have. . . loving wildlife and nature will make you rich beyond measure.”

27 HOLES AND THREE UNIQUE COURSES

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cloud, one of my biggest blessings during Covid came in the form of new, feathered friends like a special yellow-toed, juvenile yellow crown night heron, and a pair of mallards I named Grace & Peace (something the world could always use more of). On an otherwise typical day in August, I noticed a baby heron sitting on the fence outside my back door. A few days passed and I realized he was living alone in my neighbor’s tree. Thinking he might be an orphan, I started feeding him Tilapia (as a sort of Welcome to the Neighborhood). Having made a new friend, who looked just like a Henny to me, I lured him over to my bird bath with some fresh minnows (generously donated by Canalside & Grassy Sound Marinas). For most of his visits, Henny remained the “strong, silent type.” That changed, however, at sunset on Oct. 2, 2020. Henny was suddenly very vocal, flying over top of me from roof to roof, squawking as if he had something very important to say! I’d grown attuned to this amazing yellow crown night heron, down to knowing this behavior was definitely different from his otherwise predictable ways. Typically every night after sunset, he would fly out to forage, returning just before sunrise. The bird bath was his favorite daytime hang-out spot, with him occasionally retreating to his nest or exploring the neighborhood backyards (having made friends with other food-sharing neighbors, like Tom Boz, declaring Henny loved his hotdogs the most). On the day of his departure, he was gone all afternoon only to make an appearance at sunset, squawking from the rooftops. At 4 A.M., Henny was outside my bedroom window offering one last goodbye, in the only way he could. He was so loud he woke me up, as if to say, “I’m going! It’s time to take flight and see the world. Thank you, Dorothy, for your kindness and deli-

cious meals! I’ll see you in the spring. Yipppeee. Here I gooooo!!!” Cape May Bird Observatory reported that Friday night, Oct. 2nd, during a full Harvest Moon, was the biggest flight night for migration recorded (I can only assume Henny made lots of feathered travel friends!) His behavior was a classic example of what birders call “Zugunruhe,” or the anxious behavior in migratory animals, an increase in activity towards and after dusk with changes in normal sleep patterns and their verbalness. I’m still awed by how he said goodbye. I believe his squawks were full of thanks and excitement in the full breath of migration. He instinctively knew when it was time, demonstrating once again Mother Nature’s infinite, divine beauty. The next day, I cried a few times over the joy it brought me to have had the privilege of caring for such a wild bird. Some tears, naturally, were from the mother in me worrying if he was okay. One thing is certain about that incredible orphan who flew into my life on August 28th…he is a survivor, a much-needed reminder of what we all aspire to be during such challenging times. As we’ve learned to do this past year, I’ll keep looking heavenward, with a seafood banquet (and maybe a few hotdogs) ready for Henny’s celebrated return to his home by the sea… At dusk on April 7th, 2021 my favorite couple Grace & Peace showed up asking for dinner and I believe my favorite heron too, up on a neighboring rooftop. When I called his name “Henny”, he stretched out his neck and looked down at me! Then again on the 28th of April I saw two herons on my roof. (It’s not every day you see herons on top of house roofs...that was a Henny thing.) Then Henny took “Honey” to his tree, and I watched them fly into the sunset. As all good stories must come to an end, I am happy to know they will live happily ever after. . .

18 HANDICAP

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27 HOLES AND THREE UNIQUE COURSES

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Optimistically, I have my hopes for Henny. Maybe he’ll meet a girl (who I, of course, would name Henna) during his journey and bring her along for a visit this spring.

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Love is in the little things . . .

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Welcome Back to Wildwood by-the-Sea 2021

Articles inside

Capt. Chuck Schumann Retires from the Sightseer

Five Miles of Smiles Joe McNamee, Sam Spera

The Story of Henny