Dorothy McMonagle Kulisek, So They’ll Know, Inc. © 2011
YEAR 8
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2011
No beach bag can be without it!
WAT C H
T H E
T R A M
C A R
P L E A S E
VOL. 4
! SUN by-the-sea ingredients:
Where YESTERDAY and TODAY meet by-the-sea
Sunshine, salt air and sea breezes. 100% organic.
AFTER LABOR DAY calendar pages dwindle to a few, cool breeze peels away the month that brings us back to school; back to the city to tuck away white shoes and shake out moth balls from wool sweaters. miles away, a long, honky-tonk boardwalk morphs into a silent movie; flashing red traffic lights preside over empty seaside streets; and locals emerge to wash clothes in a lonely laundromat. our part of the Atlantic ocean rolls on and on, waves soothing and warm beckons weekend crowds back to break the quiet, quiet, quiet. and summer on the island lives on for just awhile longer. Harry Gale and Liz D’Anastasia take the long way home. . .
—MICHELE PICOZZI
Photograph by Rob Kulisek
TONY LUKE’S OLD PHILLY STYLE SANDWICHES
OPEN 7 DAYS 609.770.7033 Specializing in CHEESESTEAKS - CHICKEN CUTLET ROAST PORK BREAKFAST SANDWICHES Served All Day Long
6200 New Jersey Ave. at Sweetbriar Rd. in Wildwood Crest ○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
THE S U N BY - T H E - S E A MAGAZINE
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
P . O . B OX 2101 W I L DWO O D , N EW J E R S EY 08260
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
609.522.2721
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
W W W . S U N BY T H E S E A . C OM
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
S U N - BY - T H E - S E A @ V E R I ZO N . N E T
○
○
the SUN by-the-Sea
2
“How beautiful the leaves grow old. How full of light and color are their last days.” ~John Burrough NEW LISTING!!
SPACIOUS SINGLE.116 East 6th Avenue, North Wildwood. This turnkey single family home is located in a desirable location in North Wildwood and has so much to offer. This bright and cheery home consists of five bedrooms, two full baths, living room and a spacious eat-in kitchen that is fully equipped and has a snack bar for additional seating. Two of the bedrooms are located on the first floor and are currently being utilized as a sitting room and an office. The master bedroom is an oversized room with sliders that lead to a deck. All three bedrooms on the 2nd floor contain skylights that really brighten each room. In addition, the home offers a front porch and rear yard with a large Trex deck for outdoor enjoyment. Plenty of storage space can be found in the storage building located in the rear yard as well as the storage attic. JUST $349,900
AFFORDABLE CREST CONDO. 209 East Primrose, Unit #5, Wildwood Crest. This is the perfect condo for weekend get-aways. The condo consists of two bedrooms, one full bath, living room, dining area and galley kitchen. Other amenities include a common area sundeck and off-street parking. Located in Wildwood Crest just two short blocks to the beach and two short blocks to Sunset Lake. You truly get the best of both worlds. JUST $145,900
NEW LISTING!!
BROKER ASSOCIATE
4701 New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood, NJ
(609) 522-4400
Cell: (609) 602-2008
MONEY MAKING INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! 118 East 6th Avenue, North Wildwood. Each unit in this triplex consists of two bedrooms, full bath, living room and kitchen. This ranch style complex has vinyl siding for easy maintenance and has had some renovations that include newer windows, roof, kitchens and baths. All three units have front and rear access and off street parking. Each apartment is occupied with year round tenants and currently generates $25,200 a year. These units have separate electric meters and make the perfect condo conversion. JUST $239,900 WATERFRONT LOT IN NORTH WILDWOOD!! 304 SW 18th Avenue, North Wildwood on Otten’s Canal. The lot is suitable for the construction of a single family home. The bulkhead and docks are approximately 4 years old. The lot it nestled between two newly constructed waterfront homes. The land is being sold with CAFRA approvals. Buyer is responsible for all building permits. JUST $349,000
MUST SEE! 225 East Juniper Avenue, Wildwood. This beautifully decorated condo is located in Wildwood and is in walking distance to the beach and boardwalk. The immaculate unit is situated on the third floor and is the perfect place if you’re looking for comfort and style with a seashore feeling. The spacious and open floor plan offers three bedrooms, two full baths, fully equipped kitchen, dining area and living room. Also, there is a private deck to kick back and enjoy what the shore has to offer. JUST $220,000
EMAIL :
1205 Surf Avenue, Unit #6, North Wildwood Golden Tiara Condominiums are located just two short blocks to the beach and boardwalk in North Wildwood. This cozy unit is positioned on the first floor with a pool view and offers a private bedroom, living room, galley kitchen and full bath. Other amenities include on-site laundry facilities and off-street parking. Enjoy some splash time in the pool or sunbathing around the patio. Either way, this is the perfect retreat at the shore. JUST $115,000.
Colleen-Wilson@comcast.net
www.BlueOceanRealty.com
132 West Roberts Avenue, Wildwood This spacious first floor condo was constructed in 2005 and offers 2BR, 2BA, living room and dining area. Other amenities include washer and dryer, nice size deck, outside shower and off-street parking. This condo is equipped with gas heat and central air for year round enjoyment. Being sold furnished. JUST $209,900
BEACH BLOCK IN NORTH WILDWOOD. 440 East 24th Ave., Unit A, North Wildwood just steps away from the beach and boards. It’s a first floor end unit that has been recently renovated inside and out. The condo consists of two bedrooms, full bath, large eat-in kitchen and spacious living room. This year round condo is bright, cheery and delightfully decorated with seashore décor and is being sold furnished. Other amenities include a covered patio, private storage room, enclosed outside shower and two off-street parking spaces. JUST $244,900
SERENITY. 110 West Marina Court, Unit A11, North Wildwood. Enjoy the ocean views from this cozy two bedroom, one and a half bath condo located in the Anglesea area of North Wildwood. The condo is a first floor end unit with a view of Hereford’s Inlet. This affordable unit also offers a spacious living room, fully equipped kitchen and dining area. Be sure to take time to sit and enjoy the covered front patio and feel the ocean breeze or take a scenic stroll to the seawall to enjoy views like no other. JUST $215,000
www.FromBeachtoBay.net
the SUN by-the-Sea
“Backward, turn backward, O Time, in your flight make me a child again just for to-night! ~Elizabeth Akers Allen
3
4
the SUN by-the-Sea
“A grandmother likes to pretend she doesn't know who you are on Halloween.”
~Erma Bombeck
Borough of
WILDWOOD CREST Recreation & Tourism
Presenting INDIAN SUMMER of 2011 WILDWOOD CREST RECREATION DEPT. 5800 Ocean Ave. Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 (609) 523-0202 fax: (609) 522-1669 Joseph Von Savage Memorial Pool (609) 522-0084 Wildwood Crest Tennis Courts (609) 729-2628
Crafters of all Kinds! FREE! September 16th-17th
Firefighter’s Day and a half Craft Show at the Gazebo by-the-Sea, Rambler Rd. & the Beach Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 1pm
On beautiful Sunset Lake! September 24th
Seafarer’s Celebration Live Music, Food, Crafts, Special Events & Children’s Entertainment 9am - 6pm Additional Live Music at Centennial Park 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Beachfront Fireworks Show at 9pm
Tot Soccer Program from Sept. 22 through Oct. 18 Instructional, fun Soccer Program for 4-year-olds
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 pm On beautiful Sunset Lake! October 1st - 2nd
Governer’s Cup Hydrofest & Festival International Powerboat Racing Crafts, Merchandise, Food, Refreshments 9am - 4pm
Sunday, October 30th 6:30pm
Trunk or Treat Crest Pier Parking Lot, Heather & Crocus DJ, Refreshments, Prizes Youth Wrestling, Creative Dramatics, Fit Kids, Art Classes and much more coming this Fall! Call 523-0202 for more info
the SUN by-the-Sea
5
“By prevailing over all obstacles and distractions, one may unfailingly arrive at his chosen goal or destination.” ~Christopher Columbus
3 0 D AY S H AT H S EPTEMBER . 9/3 BEATLEMANIA 8pm. FREE Lou Booth Ampitheater, 2nd & Ocean, N. Wildwood 9/3-4 Handcraft Unlimited Craft Show 9-5 Wildwoods Convention Center. 717.656.3208 9/8 Beef & Beer for the Family of Victor Krivitski, Bayview, Wildwood Crest 6:309:30. More info call Peg @ 609.780.6369 9/8-11 Roar to the Shore Motorcycle Club Rally Oak & Atlantic Aves. 609.729.8870 9/9 Grandparents Day Was there ever a grandparent, bushed after a day of minding noisy youngsters, who hasn't felt the Lord knew what He was doing when He gave little children to young people?”
9/10 Mummers String Band Weekend & Strutters Contest Olde New Jersey Ave. & length of the Boardwalk. You strut! 522-2955 9/10 DUBS ON THE BOARDS CAR SHOW for all VW and Audi enthusiasts on Boardwalk. 9/11 September 11 Commemoration. North Wildwood City Hall. 8:45am. 609.522.2955 9/11 Patriots Day Memorial Service 5:30pm. New Jersey & Miami, Wildwood Crest. Honoring and remembering those who perished in the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. 609.523.0202 9/11 HANDS ACROSS THE BEACH 8am-10am on any beach in Wildwood Crest. A benefit for 10th Anniversary of 9/11. Join in holding hands along the water's edge for a moment of silence the exact time the towers were hit 9/12 Full Corn Moon 9:27am 9/16-17 New Jersey State Firemen's Convention The Wildwoods Convention Center.Sat: 1pm. Parade.609.827.1238 www.njfireconvention.com 9/22-25 Annual Wildwood, NJ Boardwalk Classic Car AUCTION in the Wildwoods Convention Center. 609.522.4546 9/22-25 18th Annual Boardwalk Classic Car Show. On the Boardwalk and at the Wildwoods Convention Center. 609.523-8051 9/22-25 Irish Fall Festival North Wildwood. 609.729.0075. 9/23-25 Morey's Piers Beach Jam “Fall Harvest,” Ultimate camping experience for scouts on the beach between Schellenger & Spencer Avenues, Wildwood. 609.522.3900 9/24 Seafarers Celebration Sunset Lake Live music, food, crafts, special events & children's entertainment. Fireworks 9pm. 9/25-10/1 American Kitefliers Association. Wildwoods Convention Center. 9/30 Monster Truck Expo~ Crest Pier, Heather & Ocean Avenue, Wildwood Crest. 6-9 p.m. 609.523.0202 9/30-10/1 Wild Thang 10 - All Chrysler cars on display the Wildwoods Boardwalk. 860.388.6441
O CTOBER H AT H 3 1 D AY S . 9/30-10/1 Olde Time Italian Festival Fox Park, Wildwood. FREE. 609.374.0016 9/30-10/2 Thunder on the Beach Monster Truck Race On the beach at Lincoln Ave. 609.523.8051 www.Thundermoto.com. 9/30-10/2 Law Enforcement Survivors Weekend - Honoring those who gave their lives in the line of duty. www.Midatlanticsurvivors.org or call 609.522.2030 x1504 10/1 Christopher Columbus Treasure Hunt & Ice Cream Eating Contest On Beach 22nd 23rd Ave. Noon. Free. 729.3223 10/1-2 Wildwoods NJ Governor’s Cup Hydrofest Sunset Lake, Wildwood Crest. 609.889.9181 WildwoodsHydrofest.com 10/8 Seafood & Music Festival Atlantic Ave. bet. Wildwood & Schellenger. 609.729.4000 10/7-9 Charismatic Conference Wildwoods Convention Center. 609.522.5010 10/7-9 Fall Thunder on the Sand/Motocross Schellenger & Spencer Ave. 609.523.8051 10/9 Super Sunday, Closing Day Celebration & Chili Cookoff, Morey's Piers Schellenger Avenue & the Boardwalk, Wildwood. Traditional farewell to summer, 11am-5pm. 10/8-9 George Pratt Memorial Soccer Tournament County-wide soccer tournament. 8am - 6pm. www.capeexpress.com 10/14-15 Wildwoods Fabulous 50's Weekend island-wide celebration of the Wildwoods' role in the birth of Rock 'n' Roll. 609.729.4000. 10/15-16 New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. 609.522.4520 or www.hereford.lighthouse.org 10/12 Fall Harvest Moon 12:07am THE FULLEST MOON OF THE YEAR. “At midnight hour, as shines the Moon, a sheet of silver spreads below.” ~JAMES GATES PERCIVAL
10/14-29 Morey’s Fears, Terror on the Boardwalk A horrifying new event will take over Mariner’s Landing Pier at Schellenger Ave and the Boardwalk on Fridays and Saturdays October 14-29 from 6:30-11pm 10/28 Halloween Parade and Fun Fair Annual event includes costume judging, parade, games and prizes. 609-522-4546 10/29 3rd Annual PUMPKIN RUN Annual event includes costume judging, parade/run/walk and prizes. 609-849-8887 10/30 TRUNK or TREAT 6:30pm Crest Pier in Wildwood Crest, Heather & Crocus. 609.523.0202 10/31 TRUNK or TREAT 6:30-8pm North Wildwood Municipal Lot. 2nd & Old NJ. 10/31 Greater Wildwood Elks Halloween Haunted House Elks Lodge, 1st & NJ Ave., NW. Trick or Treaters walk through a Haunted House and receive treats. Free. 5pm8pm. 609.729.2170
the SUN by-the-Sea
6
“But friendship is precious, not only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life!” ~Thomas Jefferson
what’s inside
f ro m t h e e d i t o r
and now online!
“There’s an analog for this life, where the succession of events, spread across years, and come together to reveal the path forward. It goes by a nicer name though, serendipity.” {Robert Lang}
{AN ENDLESS SUMMER} WWW.SUNBYTHESEA.COM FACEBOOK.COM/THE SUN BY THE SEA FIVE MILES OF SMILES! Pages 27, 28, 38, 39, 47, 54, 56, 62, 66 MY WILDWOOD by Richard Dietz Page 8 9/11 AN INDIAN SUMMER DAY by Joe Russo Page 10 DOG DAYS Pages 12-25 BOARDWALK BLESSING by Bob Ingram Page 26 SALTMARSH SCRAPBOOK by Joe Van Blunk Page 30 DR. MACE AND HATTIE LONG BABIES Pages 32-33 WILDWOOD MEMORIES by Cindy Wheaton Page 34 Hoffman Agency “What’s Hot!” Centerfold ANITA SMITH’S HUSTLE INNS by Meg Corcoran/Dorothy Kulisek Pages 40-41 PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES by Danielle Wilson Page 44 CHURCHES ON THE ISLAND Page 46 TRUE LOVE IN WILDWOOD Page 46 VICTOR KRIVITSKI Page 47 WILDWOOD NOSTALGIA & RECIPES: SILEN’S by Anita Hirsch Page 48 MY “GREAT” GRANDPARENTS by Scott Jett Page 50 SIMPLE PLEASURES by LouAnn Catanoso Page 52 STAYING FIT with Mia Chiarella Page 53 THE FUN SHOP by Steve Murray Page 55 WILDWOOD MEMORIES, The Sailors by Barry Hoffman Page 57 OLD WILDWOOD BAR STORIES: MOORE’S by Josh Kinney Page 58 MEG THE MOVIE BUFF Page 60 TRUE LOVE AT THE SUITCASE MOTEL by Joan Husband Page 62
Our Annual Dr. Mace & Hattie Long Babies Reunion at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. PHOTO OF DOROTHY TAKING “BABY” PHOTO BY
CHARLIE NEILL
dear FAN US ON FACEBOOK The Sun by the sea DEAR SUN, My father spent his summers in Wildwood at his grandfather’s house. He and my mother have since bought a home down there. The spirit of your paper captures what my father loves and remembers most about being in Wildwood. He makes sure your paper is out for all of us to read, sometimes he will clip something out or read it to me himself. During the summer when they have renters, my Dad leaves The Sun out for families to enjoy. He thinks your paper is the best in the world because it is informative and sentimental without being cheesy. They of course love the ocean, their 12 grandchildren, and the doo-wop Wildwood theme that reminds them of their younger years. Their names are Jim and Margie. Pretty classic Wildwood folks!
When I first set out to begin my own paper, before I ever knew its name, some things were clear in my vision for it. It would be a collection of all things Wildwood, and “Wildwood” would always be ended with the nostalgic “by-the-sea”. It would absolutely be a “people paper”, with stories written by and about the people here, and it would contain extra-large amounts of their pictures throughout it. From a practical standpoint, it would be my new job, as I was in need of one at the time. Never would I have imagined that The Sun by-the-sea would create its own stories, and become a “giant hug” as one reader described it to me. It was pure serendipity in that both the readers and I all found in The Sun something none of us were expecting to find. An entire issue could be devoted to such wonderful stories that would have never been, if not for this paper. :-) The stories are endless. I’ve been told that it has brought healing to broken relationships, that old friends have found old friends, and some have discovered friends and family they weren’t aware of. The Sun introduced me to friends that have become like family; they are the advertisers who faithfully support the paper, the writers and contributors who have found a platform to share their writing talents and their passionate stories about Wildwood by-the-sea, and its readers who are made up of locals and summer visitors~ an audience of Wildwood admirers that continues to stretch far and wide, digging out their old photos to submit to me with their memories. Some of my new friends who are most near and dear to my heart are the Dr. Mace babies. Like old souls, we gather together each summer at Hereford Lighthouse, to honor a woman who undoubtedly is one of the most prominent figures in all of Wildwood history~ Dr. Margaret Mace, who delivered over 6,000 babies from 1907 to 1950, and is known for her benevolent heart. Last year, the Long’s Maternity babies joined us at our reunion. They are my friends now, too. Some of my new friends make it a point to take me out to eat while they are here on vacation. Another one began a new tradition this year to meet me on the boardwalk at 11am during her summer vacation for the national anthem and to hear Kate Smith sing God Bless America. Many email me, some call, and others send me handwritten notes in the mail. Before I finish, I must tell you of one person whom I have had the privilege to work closely with, bouncing ideas back and forth with, creating cover photos together with. I’ve witnessed him take hold of his God-given talents and find pleasure in using them. He grew up in the light of The Sun, he is my most favorite person in the world and he is my son, who is also my friend. With love from your friend by-the-sea, Your Winter Project: DIG OUT THOSE OLD WILDWOOD PHOTOS! and send them to The SUN!
WILDWOOD HISTORIC SOCIETY BLAST FROM THE PAST! by Anne Vinci Page 64
Artist & Editor
Photographer
Photographer
Dorothy McMonagle Kulisek 609.214.5608
Robert Kulisek 609.435.2457
Megan Rogers
no beach bag can be without it!
MOREYS STORY by Alison Heller Page 65
1960S MID-TOWN UNIT by Al Love Page 68 CAPT. GARY SLOAN’S FISHING REPORT Page 70 DAY TRIP by Josh Kinney Page 71
Artist, Editor, and Publisher The SUN by-the–sea, WILDWOOD, NJ
On behalf of my parents, Thank you for publishing The Sun, Karen
SHOES by Marilyn Guidetti Page 62
TRADITION RESTORED by Jean Rowand Page 67
Dorothy
www.sunbythesea.com sun-by-the-sea@verizon.net The SUN by-the-sea P.O. Box 2101, Wildwood, NJ 08260
Disclaimer
The SUN by-the-sea © 2011 is published by So They’ll Know, inc.
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.
Totally Published, Edited & Designed by Dorothy Kulisek with the help of all those listed here:
“Any society that needs disclaimers has too many lawyers.” ~ERIK PEPKE
Local Journalists featured: LouAnn Catanoso • Mia Chiarella • Meg Corcoran • Marilyn Guidetti • Alison Heller • Anita Hirsch • Bob Ingram Scott Jett • Josh Kinney • Al Love • Steve Murray • Joe Russo • Gary Sloan • Joe Van Blunk • Anne Vinci• Danielle Wilson “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.
the SUN by-the-Sea
“Ah, how good it feels! The hand of an old friend.”
(from left): Crest Savings Bank President and CEO Jay M. Ford, GWTIDA’s Arlieen Franco, Crest Savings Bank’s Senior Vice President and Branch Administrator Jodie DiEduardo, and GWTIDA’s John Siciliano.
CREST SAVINGS BANK SPONSORS STARLIGHT BALLROOM When the Greater Wildwood Tourism Improvement District Authority (GWTIDA) Board of Directors brought the proposal to Crest Savings Bank’s Board of Directors to fund the “Starlight Ballroom” project, the idea met enthusiastic response. The bank’s contribution paid for a beautiful art-deco neon sign now displayed in the Convention Center’s entranceway and it also helps to offset the ballroom’s operating costs. Crest Savings Bank’s pledge was substantial enough to fund the rebirth of the Starlight Ballroom. GWTIDA board members who held this project close to their hearts were grateful to the bank for being the first to step forward and ensure its realization. Since its establishment in 1919, Crest Savings Bank has served many generations and witnessed much history. Jay M. Ford, Crest Savings Bank President and CEO noted “We are proud to partner with GWTIDA in bringing back this historical icon to our community. This sponsorship helps to preserve the many wonderful memories which are associated with the Starlight Ballroom.”
7 ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
8
the SUN by-the-Sea
“The course of life is like the sea; men come and go; tides rise and fall; and that is all of history.”
~Joaquin MIller
FROM RICHARD DIETZ Many photos are sent in by readers who love reminiscing with the SUN, a group of nostalgia buffs who enjoy the reflection back to an era, that in retrospect seemed innocent, and people were wholesome and everyone seemed happy. Many of the photos that grace the pages of The Sun came from family albums where little black triangular holders on each corner held them in place; some lay in cardboard boxes or dresser drawers next to old chenille bedspreads for years, or in an envelope from the local drugstore film processing counter. We thank you for taking the time to send them in, some with their ‘Wildwood story’, we cherish them and are very honored to publish them. May you enjoy a sense of simple pleasure as you reflect back in time with each turn of the page. Don’t forget to. . . Dig out your old photos! and mail to: SUN by-the-sea P.O. Box 2101, Wildwood, NJ 08260 or email to: sun-by-the-sea@verizon.net
Above: Richard’s Mom & Dad (and Baby on Board~ Richard) in front of what would later be their bungalow, c. 1935. At the time it was owned by C. Duisberg. After many years of renting, they finally bought it c. 1951. Below: Richard’s daughter Margie, her husband Rob Bonawitz, and Richard’s Mom, Hattie Dietz in the same location, 69 years later, in 2004.
On the same set of steps at 127 W. 1st Ave. in North Wildwood. Richard on left, with Connie, John & Ida Ford, c. 1949
Above: 3 similar views of the ever-changing Hereford Inlet from early 1900’s to 1996, before it changed again with the addition of the seawall. Richard & sister Peg in North Wildwood near 5th Ave. beach, c. 1939
Left: Richard with sister Peg on Boardwalk at 6th Ave. in North Wildwood, c. 1939. (Yes there was a boardwalk in North Wildwood!)
the SUN by-the-Sea
9
“Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour.” ~John Boswell
SHOP ONLINE AT WWW.WINTERWOODGIFT.COM
WE’RE MORE THAN JUST A CHRISTMAS STORE! OPEN AT 10AM EVERYDAY
BUY 4 GET 1
FREE
LECTION LARGEST SE RSEY! IN SOUTH JE ADS! OVER 500 BE
RIVERTON WRAPS! MATCHING GLOVES, EARMUFFS & SCARVE S
OLD WORLD CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS
Coupon
$
5
OFF
CHRISTMAS ES COLLECTIBL
HISTORIC HILDRETH HOUSE 3137 RT. 9-S • RIO GRANDE 609-465-3641
WILDWOOD CAPE MAY YOUNG & OCEAN AVES. WASHINGTON ST. MALL 609-729-7200 609-884-8949
Any Purchase of $50 or more. COUPON MUST BE PRESENTED AT TIME OF PURCHASE. NOT GOOD WITH ANY OTHER COUPON OR DISCOUNT. EXPIRES 12/31/11
the SUN by-the-Sea
10
“I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go.” ~Abraham Lincoln
PHOTO ROB KULISEK
10 Years ~ September 11, 2001 / September 11, 2011
An Indian Summer Day BY JOE RUSSO Only a few people remained, scattered in little clusters amongst the sand, which was pock marked with deep holes and crumbling castles, the last vestiges of young imaginations at work. The sun was sinking into the western sky, casting shadows across the tranquil ocean. He is seated on a sand chair, burrowing his feet deeper into the cool sand while watching a man push a kayak through the breakers. “I think I am going to go for a swim,” he says to his wife. “Okay,” she replies without looking up from her novel. As is his custom, he leaps to his feet and rushes toward the water. Splashing in, he jumps over the smaller waves rolling toward the shore until he is hip-deep and meets up with a larger wave which he charges head-on and leaps over. Surfacing on the other side he watches the wave roll away and turns toward the empty horizon. “What a glorious Indian summer day!” he declares. “Not a cloud in the sky. What could possibly ruin this day?” He spots the next big wave forming over a sandbar about fifty yards out. Suddenly, he hears a deep rumble, loud enough to send small ripples across the surface of the water. It is followed by deafening, high- pitched screams. He freezes in place, his skin turning cold and clammy and suddenly he is transported back to another splendid Indian summer day ten years ago. With a clap the wave smashes into his back and pitches him into the water. The force of the wave sends him into a spin through the froth. He extends his arms
to brace himself and opens his eyes. He does not see the froth or the rushing water. Instead he sees fire and clouds of smoke. The wave spins him in another direction and he begins to feel nauseous, as though he has been punched in the stomach. The current is pulling him down the beach and he is growing weak. He knows that he must break the surface before he is swallowed up for good. At last, with one final rush the wave deposits him into the shallow water as it dissipates and he is left sprawled by the water’s edge, coughing and spitting. He can see other people popping out of the water crying and gasping for air. While struggling to his feet the rumble and the screams come again and he looks up and spots the source of the noise: it is merely a train of cars rattling across the wooden tracks of a roller coaster. He takes a deep breath and glances out at the water. Everything is just as it was moments ago. The kayaker is now skimming along in pursuit of a school of dolphin and there is no one else in the water. His wife is standing and scanning the shoreline, using her book as a visor. She spots him and waves and he waves back. When he reaches her she asks, “What happened? Are you okay?” He grabs a towel and wrings the water from his ears. “Yeah,” he replies. “I’ll be okay. All of a sudden,” he said, “it just struck right out of the clear blue. That is something that I will never forget.”
the SUN by-the-Sea
“How bravely Autumn paints upon the sky the gorgeous fame of Summer which is fled!” ~Thomas Hood
11
the SUN by-the-Sea
12
“One cannot manage too many affairs; like pumpkins in water, one pops up while you try to hold down the other.” ~Chinese proverb lk 54arsrdwa a Ye Bo on
t
he
o B V m n th EST ote d yF e ox Jer PIZ Ph sey ZA ill Sh y. ore co m
Sam’s PIZZA PALACE
“Scratch a dog and you'll find a PERMANENT JOB.” ~FRANKLIN P. JONES As the dog days of summer grind to a sweet, sultry halt, now is the best time for a recent review, as the Summer of 2011 proved to be chock-full of beach, boardwalk, and blissfully blazing activities. Curley’s Fries Eating Contest & Festival provided a fun feast, kicking off a summer of entertainment at Morey’s Piers on Memorial Weekend. Music filled the seasweetened air all summer long, parades abounded, and picturesque scenery could be found on every corner. Farther down the sandy path, a Barbeque Champion found a prime spot at the Anglesea Blues Festival while Beach Concerts and Boardwalk Craft Shows blended as effortlessly as sun and surf, providing alternative entertainment during those blistering, blissful days. A North Wildwood beauty proudly wore her crown, and the Sidewalk Chalk artists among us showed off their one-of-a-kind creativity. With temperatures soaring and air conditioners roaring, fantastic Fireworks on the Beach illuminated a shimmering summer spent happily by the sea... As summer slowly leaves our seaside canvas, we fondly recall all of the colorful events that took place While You Were Here...
A SUMMER
IN
P H OTO S
People of all ages enjoyed the Curley Fry Festival’s stilt walkers, clowns, facepainters and of course, kiddie rides galore!
26th & Boardwalk in Wildwood 522-6017 (L-R) Anthony, Raoul, Rinaldo, Tony, Dante, Roe, Toni, Alanna, Rick, Lauren, Steve
Chef Wally, above, and Nick Lassor, below, bring out the buckets of Curley Fries prepared for the contestants.
Twelve contestants were present at Morey’s Piers Curley Fries Eating Contest & Festival. They brought with them ravenous appetites as they vied for the $500. prize
Dave Goldstein takes the prize from the National Bank of French Fries:-)
The Winner, Dave Goldstein
the SUN by-the-Sea
13
“A man with one watch knows what time it is; a man with two watches is never quite sure.”
Island Art of Stone Harbor Come see our NEW corner location!
~Lee Segall
We Buy Old Gold Take Advantage of Record Gold Prices! Highest Possible Prices Paid! Immediate Payment!
• Beach and Tropical Art • Seaside Accents, Lamps and Furniture • Fun Family Beach Portraits (Quick Turn-Around)
• Specialty Foods and Kitchen Accents Corner of 96th and Third Ave, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247 (609) 368-9540 (609) 231-6777 www.IslandArtStoneHarbor.com 9501@verizon.net
GREGG METZLER GIA Graduate Gemologist Watch and Jewelry Repair www.jewelry-studio.com 250 96TH ST. STONE HARBOR, NJ 609-967-4653 {GOLD}
262 96th St. Stone Harbor, NJ 609-368-5556 GlobalPursuitSH.com
the SUN by-the-Sea
14
“Begin at the beginning and go on till you come to the end; then stop.”
~Lewis Carrol, Alice in Wonderland
A S UMMER “My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already THINKS I am.”
IN
P HOTOS
Wild Half Mile Kid’s Marathon Kids unleash their WILD side on a half mile race from the Convention Center to Mariner's Landing.
Jennifer Fox, Brianna Reef, Mase & Emma Fiorucci, Jenna Reef Out of 250 contestants, brothers Vincent (9) and Michael Aloi (12), won the Wild Half Mile Race.
Home of Peggy’s Crab Shack
Curley and his little fry friends always having fun on Morey’s Piers.
H 2 0 1 1 IR IS D W E E K E N er Septemb 22-25
FALL 2011
We’ll be rockin’ Irish Weekend EGAGLES S R E AME IS SOUL CRU and all fall long!
Sidewalk Chalk Contest Winner Rikki Davis July 9th, 2011
SL AI NT E B IG H O U S E JU LI AN O BR OS DO UB LE TR OU BL E MA SS LECOMPT WWW.KEENANSIRISHPUB.COM FOR COMPLETE FALL ‘11 LINEUP
113 OLDE NEW JERSEY AVE. NORTH WILDWOOD 609-729-3344
Winner in her age division~ Rikkii Davis & “Summer Days”
Krista Mikula shows off her new Gift Shop at Coconut Cove where she helped to raise over $2000. which will be presented to The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Trisomy 21 Down Syndrome Program.
the SUN by-the-Sea
15
“Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.”
IN
P H OTO S
ith the Best Dj's on r! W t ba
and! Isl he
4th of July Celebration
We're "that" bar. . . with the Best Dj's on the Island! BONFIREontheBEACH! Save the Date! Sat., Oct. 23rd We're "tha t"
A SUMMER
~Dr Seuss
with
STELLAR MOJO & DJ QWIK
Open All Fall Long! BUCK YOU MONDAY $1.50 Domestics and Dj Gibby
TUESDAY Night Madness with Dj Kramer BUCKED AGAIN WEDNESDAY
Stewart’s Rooftop~ the best seat in the house for the best fireworks display in the Wildwoods. Best enjoyed with a Rootbeer Float and good friends!
$1.50 Domestics and Dj Qwik THURSDAY
JULY PACKS THE PARADES North Wildwood Mayor Bill Henfey said, “Our City loves its parades so much, that on the Fourth of July, we have two!” There were kids on bikes as well as patriotic pooches, all decked out in red, white, and blue.
Ask for Frank with DJ Kramer
FRIDAY Dj Qwik SATURDAY Dj Gibby SUNDAY DANCE PARTY! Playing All Your Favorites!! Simulcast Live 98.7FM the Coast 9pm-Midnite with your host DJ Qwik brought to you by Miller Lite.
“Best Bar/Night Club” JERSEY SHORE MAGAZINE
“Best Dance Club” FREETIME
“Make the Summer Count!” $2. High Life - MGD Lemonade SUNDAY "No Shower Happy Hours" Starts 3pm. Come in right off the beach
IRISH FALL FESTIVAL DJ QWIK All Weekend Long! Doors open @ 9pm / Sat and Sun @ 3pm WALNUT & OLDE NEW JERSEY AVES. NORTH WILDWOOD 522-8570 DRIVING MISS FERGIE Sandy Hall, Ann Devlin and Vicky Carr Mulherrin, Fergie’s master The Perry Family
Mr. Cupcake pulled it out again at the Annual N. Wildwood Pooch Parade! This year he was the GRAND CHAMPION:-) Mr. Cupcake is the official mascot at Art of Gymnastics & Cheer
McMonagle Gang from 6th St. Cameron, Lindsey, Cheri, Audrey Rose, Sierra, Caitlyn, Jackson & Jim
Baxter the Philly Phanatic
Jillian & Olivia with their dogs, Vida & Crush
the SUN by-the-Sea
16
“Most of us don't need a psychiatric therapist as much as a friend to be silly with.”
~Robert Brault
Crabby Chic Boutique
A SUMMER
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
P H OTO S
KING & QUEEN OF MARBLES
THE CRAB NEW N! IN TOW
Bags Bling & OtherThings
Hi! ia law”d C “ I’m
IN
NEW holiday items arriving daily! Ice Cream & Candy Bar & Arcade Games in rear of the store
Check for our new Fall Hours (609) 522-5637
Philly Phanatic and Dugout Ice Cream Parlor owner Bill Hagstotz, along with an enthusiastic crowd, enjoy two of America’s favorite pastimes this summer: baseball and eating ice cream.
Brandon Matchett smooched a kiss on Bailey Narr’s cheek which made the king & queen of the Marbles Tournament official. The pair from Allegheny County, Pa., were the new king and queen of marbles after winning this year’s championship matches in the 88th National Marbles Tournament held in Wildwood by-the-sea.
125 E. 17th Ave. N. Wildwood, NJ
Pete & Sherri Byron with their little man, Thomas, enjoyed a night out for a funfilled event at the Dugout Ice Cream Parlor in Wildwood.
A BEAUTIFUL SUMMER EVENT Wildwood Catholic High School student, Grace Elizabeth Lederer, 16, was crowned Miss North Wildwood 2011 on July 14th. She will proudly represent North Wildwood during the year’s upcoming special events. She has been studying art for the past six years and music for the past four years and has the highest GPA in her class. Grace has achieved First Honors and is a member of the National Honor Society. In addition to beauty and brains, Grace is also a talented athlete. She’s won six varsity letters for Cross Country Swimming and Track and Field. In 2010-2011, she won the MVP of Cross Country and Track as well as the Cape Atlantic League First Team All-Star in both Cross Country and Swimming.
102° ! ! ! it’s doggone hot! TINK HALDEMAN MEMORIAL 5K RUN
2011 IRISH WEEKEND Sept. 22nd - 25th
Come join us Saturday, Sept. 24th Help us support Wildwood Catholic High School Pre-registration at Owen’s Pub PROUD SUPPORTER of AOH James J. Reilly Div. 1 since 2002
Philly Phanatic ‘strikes’ a pose with Barbara Flacco and her grandaughter Brenna
The boardwalk displayed its craftier side featuring unique, handcrafted items several weekends throughout the summer. Managing the Boardwalk Special Improvement District Craft Shows on a hot summer dog day in July are Joyce Gould & Jane Shell of Wildwood Crest
the SUN by-the-Sea
“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.”
A SUMMER
IN
17 ~Psalms 42:1
P H OTO S
When it comes to life’s simple summer pleasures, what could be better that a stroll on the seawall or a walk on our award-winning beaches with the sound of the surf providing a gentle reminder that there’s no better place to spend a summer day than Wildwood?
Philly/West Wildwood resident (and loyal Sun-by-the-sea reader) Lori Sansom fondly recalls her early years working on the boardwalk and Samuel’s Pancakes as well as waitressing at Moore’s for 10 seasons until the last call. Lori and her daughter Riley McDade now spend their weekends at Moore’s inlet beach, while patronizing Beach Bums coffee/ice cream shop located across the street. Bev Trapp on a morning seawall stroll
Live Entertainment every Fri. & Sat. Night
A year-round sunrise seawall walker, Jo.
Harry casts his rod at Hereford Inlet while he enjoys his morning coffee before heading up the boardwalk to his ‘Corner’. He & Mike from Hot Spot are living the good life!
Mike DiBiasio helping to keep NWW city clean
TRUDi Robinson, from BEACH BLANKET BINGO
Cassidy, Caroline, and Ryan know perfect summer days are made of sand, sea & frozen treats. . .and hanging out with their dad on 7th St. beach! {Kenny Gallagher}
the SUN by-the-Sea
18
“By working faithfully eight hours a day you may eventually get to be boss and work twelve hours a day.”
A SUMMER
IN
P H OTO S
~Robert Frost
If you can’t stand the heat...
Get Out of the KITCHEN!
Theresa says, “I think you know how good our raviolis are!” The Ravioli House supplies many local restaurants with their homemade pasta Steve Jakel ~ Ravioli scooping is just 1 of his jobs
Rosa Ramos icing the anginetti ricotta cookies
Armaan and the ravioli making machine
Marie’s FLOWER SHOPPE
Betty Rivas mixing the choc. chip biscotti mix
3rd & New Jersey Aves., North Wildwood
(609)729-0199
Theresa stirs her homemade gravy
www.mariesflower.com VOTED BEST Specializing in Fresh Floral Design,Weddings, Sympathy Flowers, Fruit & Gourmet Gift FLOWER SHOP Baskets & Balloons AT THE SHORE Serving The Wildwoods, Cape May & Cape May myFoxPhilly.com County with Quality & Excellence, Since 1973
TELEFLORA WORLDWIDE
Kathleen Erikson prepping pastry recipes
on the corner of WILDWOOD & OCEAN AVE. WILDWOOD, NJ
Ravioli counters
609-729-1555 WWW.LAURASFUDGESHOP.COM Since 1926
OUR GIFT TO YOU
10%
OFF YOUR TOTAL PURCHASE
MUST PRESENT COUPON. NOT VALID ON EASTER CANDY OR WITH ANY OTHER OFFER OR MAIL ORDERS
the sun
Feeding flour to the ravioli making machine
Pignolis, Almond Ameretto Crescents, Wedding Cookies, Cheesecakes, Carrot Cakes, Red Velvet Cakes, Biscottis ~ Anies, Hazelnut, Choc Chip Walnut, Tutti-Frutti, Torroncinis, Anginettis, and so much more... all made in Wildwood by-the-Sea!
the SUN by-the-Sea
19
“One reason a dog can be such a comfort when you're feeling blue is that he doesn't try to find out why.”~Anon.
A SUMMER
Wildwood Surf Fest A GREAT DAY AT THE BEACH! The 1st annual Wildwoods Surf Fest was held on July 30th, hosted by Morey's Piers! The beach behind Raging Waters Waterpark was packed with over 300 people who showed up for Free Surf Lessons! Event planners were thankful to the Surf instructors from local surf shops such as Ocean Outfitters & Woody’s who provided this free opportunity for so many people to learn to surf. There was Live Music, a classic surfer BBQ dinner and Luau and exclusive after hours admission into Raging Waters Waterpark! Be sure to log onto MoreysPiers.com for next year’s 2nd Annual Surf Fest...while there, click on YouTube icon to view the awesome SurfFest video!
Dean Lyon gave lessons throughout the day to over 300 ‘wanna be’ surfers. Dean is an instructor for Ocean Outfitters Surf Camps in Wildwood Crest .
IN
P H OTO S
NWBP & 21 Down SPECIAL KIDS HAVE A SPECIAL DAY AT THE BEACH! The North Wildwood Beach Patrol’s 3rd Annual “DAY AT THE BEACH” with the 21 Down organization was held on July 22nd. 21 Down is a non-profit Down’s syndrome awareness group serving Atlantic and Cape May Counties, while creating a network of families sharing support and knowledge while encouraging community awareness and acceptance. Trained lifeguards were on hand reinforcing beach safety. Participants were treated to beverages, lunch, a beach treasure hunt, and soft-top paddleboard rides, the happiest part of the day!
NWBP Lt. Dave Lindsay on far left and NW Mayor Bill Henfey on far right with a group of 36 children with disabilities including Down Syndrome, Cerebral palsy and autism.
CHRISTINE & LAINEY’S
Above and below: NWBP guards look forward to this event because they love being a part of it! It was a day of great wave riding experience!
Back to School Specials! $10 off Complete Chem Services I M-T-W $10 Cuts Kids 10+ Airbrush Makeup I Hair Feathers I $5 off Services w/Lisa on Monday Experience a safe, anti-friz treatment starting at $150. Walk-ins WELCOME
Folks enjoying the live outdoor music & dancing on the beachfront of Mariner’s Pier.
Local surfer Steve Fredericks instructing a small group session. Sessions were held every hour.
It was a HOT 102°, but together, the NWBP did an outstanding job creating many smiles at our beautiful North Wildwood Inlet beach! Above is Bill Auty. He and his wife Lauren have spearheaded this event which is growing in popularity each year!
102 W. Spruce Ave. • North Wildwood • 609-522-8585
Behind flip-flops
the SUN by-the-Sea
20
“A mind always employed is always happy. This is the true secret, the grand recipe, for felicity.” A SUMMER
IN
~Thomas Jefferson
P H OTO S
8th Annual Wildwood Ave. Block Party ~ July 30th, 2011
1st Annual Crab Festival held at Ice House on Park Blvd.
CELEBRATING THE SPOOKY SIDE OF SUMMER The 400 block of Wildwood Ave. knows how to celebrate summer. The creative theme for their 8th Annual Block Party was Halloween. The friendly neighborhood party included a moon bounce, dunk tank, music, food, and even trick or treating for the kids. Get ready for next year’s Country & Western theme!
A S U M M E R I N P H OTO S : this event was covered by Josh Kinney
Trish Mikula with her body guards
@Casey’s on 3rd
Benny & Floyd’s Wildwood Ave. Gang
Joe & Kim McMonagle
Inside the tent at Icehouse Crab Fest
Dale & Michelle Slider at Coconut Cove
Summer bounty. Joe & Jackie Dooley
Coconut Cove server Colin Butler Mr. Clean & the Logan Family Tom & Nikki Rowan
Natalie Rowan & Kim Mc. w/Super-sized Margaritas
Rob Rowan & Beth Salt
Trick or Treaters ~ Gabby, Reese, Mackenzie, Aubrey, Joyce Ann & Sean
eenie meenie minee mo, catch a doggie by the toe...
George the Boxer welcomes Paige Morgan Carey 7-16-11.
Father & Daughter, Michaela & Jim McMonagle
First time events can be tough, from organizing to promoting and getting people together, but the first New Jersey State Crab festival made an awesome first impression this summer. July 23rd, the Ice House Restaurant and Bar on Park Boulevard hosted the daylong event dedicated to delicious crabs and laid back summer fun. With live music, a bounty of crabs, including crab cakes, crab fries, blue claw crabs and crab races, a flurry of activity kicked off this first year event. From 11 AM into the evening, the giant white tent next to the Ice House cooled off patrons on the humid July day. “What a great time we had at the Crab fest,” said Darlene Chrupcala Litton of Sicklerville, New Jersey, “The crabs were big and delicious, the beer so cold, and the bands rocked our world! The Ice House was the place to be. We are already looking forward to attending next year.” Like many festivals in North
Wildwood that have benefited the community, the crab festival hopes to continue what it started for years to come, drawing in the island community as well as new visitors. Vendors set up on the street outside the restaurant creating a marketplace for crab festival participants to browse and shop. Tables and chairs were spread out underneath the massive tent where cover songs by Wesley Ochs and Maggie Vail Jung resonated while hundreds stopped by throughout the day and night for some great food and superb entertainment. Part of the proceeds for the festival went to support the Brendan Borek Tides Memorial Fund, an organization helping families who have children or young adults with cancer. The original plan was to create an annual event that people would look forward to and mark their calendars for. That goal seems to have already been met.
the SUN by-the-Sea
21
“Heaven is blessed with perfect rest but the blessing of earth is toil.”
NO SHAGGY DOG STORY! There are many myths and legends about “Owney the Postal Dog” who rode his way to fame in 19th Century Postal cars, but the truth itself is enough to make you shake your head. It is not a shaggy dog story either. In fact, the US Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp for the intrepid mutt this summer. July 27th at The Cape May County Museum partnered with the US Postal Service to issue first day first edition stamps commemorating “Owney the Postal Dog.” In conjunction with this event, there is an exhibit on Cape May County Post Offices from the 18 th and 19 th Centuries. This exhibit will remain in place through the Fall. An Owney “re-enactor” was on hand to greet visitors on opening day of exhibit. For more info on the history of Owney go to google.com
THE ULTIMATE DOG’S LIFE ~ Living the good life by the sea are Abbey, Marley, Molly, Simon, Archie, & Sawyer (a few who have been ‘rescued’), alongside their non-furry friends Jerry & Renee Green, Michelle Lucks, & Steve Ballantine of Green’s Bikes in Wildwood Crest
THE FINE ART BY THE SEA July 20th ~ the Wildwoods Convention Center hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Phase III of the Wildwoods Convention Center package, which is part of the state of New Jersey’s “Arts Inclusion Program.” Philadelphia-born artist Tom Nussbaum designed the integrated sculpture and mosaic installation for the site’s entry. His artwork was inspired by images found in Wildwood’s setting including the beach and boardwalk.
Travels
WITH THE SUN!
A Sunny day at the Louvre. Sun-By-the-Sea’s ace photographer, Rob Kulisek, after a big summer as a marketing intern at Morey’s Piers, lit out for Paris with traveling companion Jamie Cramer. Here Rob poses in front of the Louvre, reading the international edition of The SUN.
PET-FRIENDLY PARADISE Long-time Wildwood lover Jayne Peyton of thejerseypetpages.com happily announced the very first New Jersey issue of the animal lover’s directory. The directory includes a list of great pet-friendly places to visit in Cape May County, including area beaches where your furry friends are welcomed.
~Henry van Dyke
22
the SUN by-the-Sea
“The end of labor is to gain leisure.”
~Aristotle
A SUMMER
IN
P H OTO S
A GLOBETROTTING BOARDWALK Floss Stingel, who recorded the infamous “Watch the Tram Car, Please” 40 years ago, stepped up to the microphone on August 3rd to record, “Watch the Globetrotters, Please.” The new recording was used while the team of 10 Harlem Globetrotters, who played four games in Wildwood this summer, performed their magical ball handling skills as they traveled along the boardwalk in the tram car, driven by Gigi “the tram car man”, bouncing, dribbling and spinning basketballs to a happy crowd on August 10th.
Linda Smith, 1961 “Me & My Teddy Bear” pulled by Tom Montana SENT IN BY ANITA SMITH
102ND BABY PARADE On August 3rd, the 102nd Wildwoods Baby Parade traveled from the Convention Center, and proceeded North on the infamous Wildwoods Boardwalk to 16th St. where Fun-filled entertainment awaited, with awards and prizes given out to the baby parade winners. The long search for a worthy 2011 Grand Marshall ended when John Lynch was chosen. His positive, charitable ways and commitment to the community, along with his contributions to the Lunch with Lynch Foundation, made him the perfect choice. Mr. Tram Car, Gigi (John Gigliotti)
Mr. John Lynch
Veronica Burdsall with her grandaughter, Brynn who took 1st place
Over 75 sleek-looking Hobies with neon-colored sails raced along the beaches of theWildwoods during the Wildwoods Classic Cup XXVII Hobie Cat Races on August 20-21.
the SUN by-the-Sea
23
“Who would believe such pleasure from a wee ball o' fur?”
~Irish Saying
PERSONAL TOUCH A SUMMER
IN
HAIR SALON
P H OTO S
Making Beautiful Changes Since 1987
2nd Annual Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Maritime Festival ME
WELCO B UILT 1874
www.herefordlighthouse.org
Rebecca & Grace Mullen
Les Kammerman, Donna Elias & Steve Murray
A SEAFARING CELEBRATION
Diane Maguire
To commemorate New Jersey’s rich nautical history, Hereford Inlet Lighthouse hosted the 2nd Annual Maritime Festival in the Wildwoods on July 16th & 17th. Over fifty artists and crafters were featured alongside displays from numerous non-profit marine and historical organizations. The celebration featured live seafaring & folk music, children’s activities, historical exhibits, lighthouse tours by descendants of the original keepers, costumed pirates and so much more. Look for more in 2012!
12th Annual New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge October15-16TH, 2011 Call 609.522.4520 for more info
GAIL E! MCKE
Precision Cuts • Perms 3 Types of Hair Color Rusk Deep Shine • Matrix • Clairol MEN • WOMEN • CHILDREN
THRIFT BOUTIQUE PROCEEDS BENEFIT SOCS (SURVIVORS OF CANCER) 413 W. SPRUCE AVE. NORTH WILDWOOD
609.729.8404
Joe Lehman
Richard Dietz See his photos on p. 8
Sy & Anita Hirsch See her story on p. 48 Chef Mia Chiarella • Chef Vince Chiarella
Nancy Pierce
NWBP, Mike Anderson
RDS GIFT CA LE AVAILAB
Jane Johnson, Floss Stingel, Cole Altman
3001 Pacific 609.729.5959 3001 PacificAve. Ave. Wildwood, Wildwood, NJ NJ Reservations: Reservations: 609.729.5959 Open Year giawildwood.com Open YearRound Round Available Available for for Catering Catering giawildwood.com
the SUN by-the-Sea
24
“An old dog, even more than an old spouse, always feels like doing what you feel like doing.”
~Anon.
A SUMMER
BRITTON’S G ou rm et B a ker y { All Baking Done on Premises }
P H OTO S
TONY LUKE’S had a special visit with former Phillies’ catcher Darren Daulton who enjoyed lunch with the Shark.
PIRATE TREASURE HUNTS were one of the family-friendly events at Coconut Cove’s exciting first summer.
JonPaul & Maisie Paxton, expectant parents
DESIGN TEAM at NORTH END AMERICAN GRILL ~ (L to R) Trevor Kennedy (upholsterer), Scott Swain (builder), Jamie DelMonte (restaurant manager), Joseph Tenaglia (designer), Mike Collins (Builder). Stop by and check it out!
{Michael & Jeanne John} Diane, Meg, Jose, Michelle and Robin
OPEN 6:30AM
IN
THRU SEPTEMBER
VOTED Best at the Shore P HILADELPHIA M AGAZINE S OUTH J ERSEY M AGAZINE M AINLINE T IMES
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
DONUTS • PASTRIES • MUFFINS • BAGELS • CAKES • CINNAMON BUNS • WORLD FAMOUS APPLE FRITTERS JonPaul Paxton with manager Kearsten Feggans in front of a classic photo of young Jon in GoodFish Grill
5600 Pacific Ave. Wildwood Crest, NJ 609-522-5600
This little pooch enjoyed dog days and nights this summer at all the FREE concerts at Centennial Park in Wildwood Crest
MARA-THON BAKE SALE AT COOL SCOOPS ~ (L to R) Lori, Allie, Ashley, Paul & Elvis. . . Just another fine example of selflessness on our island. Get well Mara!
THE 10TH ANNUAL WIFFLE BALL TOURNAMENT was held by the Conway family on Saturday, August 6th. Participants ranged in age from 16 to 74. Seniors be proud! Mom Conway (73) won the championship with her son, Tom, the two underdogs in the tournament. The tournament thrives in memory of the patriarch of the family Howard P. Conway, a friend and neighbor of many on 23rd Street.
the SUN by-the-Sea
25
“When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.”
A SUMMER
July 23rd ~ HEALTH FAIR Green Street Market is family owned and operated in Rio Grande, committed to serving our community by providing all natural, healthy, fresh and delicious whole foods specializing in organic, locally grown and fair trade certified products. The Health Fair emphasized their commitment to help provide their customers the best resources to support a naturally healthy, holistic lifestyle. On hand were local businesses such as gyms, massage therapists, acupuncturists and many more.
Diane Carrick, one of the “Green St. Girls”
IN
Green St. Market Health Fair
(L-R) Kristen Bowe, Kimba Stahler, Tanya Simmons, one of the “Green St. Girls” and Jane Duhadway
Rev. Jeff Salasin stays so healthy looking because he is a Green St. Market regular
Terri and Dora, employees of Green St. Market with Shaine Smith the massage therapist.
SUMMER DON’T LEAVE! Nearing the end of summer, the Wild Half Mile provided a unique tour of the town, leading its participants, as well as its many spectators, toward an action-packed fall at the shore. With the sun making its slow descent over the Summer of 2011, the glow from the harvest moon will soon spotlight a parade of Irish Festival-loving ghosts and goblins. As the sea-loving spirits take time out from their sweet Halloween treats to sample the Seafood and Music Festival & Morey’s Chili CookOff, their shore soul mates will be celebrating those Fabulous ’50s. Among the sand-covered scarecrows and pumpkins, shore lovers are sure to savor this mellow time of year when seaside days are at their sweetest... BY MEG CORCORAN/DOROTHY KULISEK
Our Cover girl! Liz D’Anastasia sells her healthy juice at local fairs. Look for The Juice Box FIND A MISTAKE? It is our policy to include something for everyone. Since some people like to find errors, we regularly include a few in our publicatoins.
Carol Della Penna a Green St. Market employee
P H OTO S :
Abbey Stahler a shopper
~”Things we learn from our dogs”
26
the SUN by-the-Sea
“For me, hard work represents the supreme luxury of life.” ~Albert M. Greenfield
5 MILES of Smiles!
Rob & Deb’s Wedding on the bay
AT SUNSET VIEW MARINA MOTHER SHUCKERS~ THE PERFECT PRIVATE PARTY PLACE!
“What sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity.”
Mr. & Mrs. Rob Berckman
Chris & Monica Deegler, owners, creators, chefs & hosts of their Mother Shuckers Seafood & Raw Bar at 3rd & the Bay in North Wildwood. A great Private Party spot on the island with the freshest seafood!
Rob & Deb sped across the bay on their jetski, making a grand entrance to their wedding celebration
The Yancer & Berckman families
Chris Deegler & Kevin Casey When he is not at Uncle Bill’s making the best pancakes on the island, Michael O’Hara is at Mother Shuckers.
Phila. Police Officer Bill Yancer with Tara Szyszko
Bill Yancer (center) with former band members of the 1980s Phila. Punk Rock Group The A’s
Friends of the bride & groom
Bill Yancer with his daughter Victoria
Val & Deb
Friends with the bride & groom include the Casey’s from 3rd
the SUN by-the-Sea
27 ~Wendell Berry, Hannah Coulter
“We lived here by our work. Our life and our work were not the same thing maybe, but they were close…”
A Boardwalk Blessing – Sort of
PHOTOGRAPH BY ROB KULISEK
BY BOB INGRAM
The Geator made him do it! Sun writer Bob Ingram dourly flashes the cast on his broken hand, which he suffered after a stupid bicycle accident which he caused after making a turn without looking to see the Jerry Blavat poster above. On Thursday, July 7, 2011, to be exact, near the end of the Boardwalk in North Wildwood, NJ, I received a much-needed reminder of the decency and compassion inherent in everyday Americans. For a long time, my opinion of my fellow citizens has probably been too much influenced by the pernicious predilection of what we loosely call “the media” to fondly indulge many of the ongoing stupidities that pass for popular culture in America. TV, of course, is the major culprit in the moronizing of America. Whoever came up with reality TV is the evil Einstein of that particular wasteland. Cell phones and to some extent social media ain’t helping any either. Texting is creating a generation of heads-down zombies shuffling along like the Living Dead, while the computer and social networking have made far too many people far too aware of and runny-mouthed about the ongoing saga of their mainly sanguinary lives. If you can’t make it to America’s Next Idol, there’s always Facebook and YouTube, yo. But, on the day above, my faith in my fellow man was revived and restored. How long this epiphany will survive the slings and arrows and barbed tips of the days we all walk among, is anybody’s guess, so let me tell the story while it still moves me. On a glorious welkin seashore morning, my pal Bobalew and I were off on our usual bike ride, the heart of which is on the Wildwoods Boardwalk. We had only gone a short distance when Bobalew called, “Hey, did you see that picture of Jerry Blavat dressed up as Captain America back there?” I hadn’t, and turned back to have a look. I figured he meant the picture was on one of
the tramcar kiosks that line the boards. There were three reasons I wanted to see it: first, I think that the Geator is a stone one-of-a-kind original; second, I had just had a poem about Blavat published in the cool local paper, The Wildwood Sun-By-the-Sea; and, third, I’ve always loved the Captain America costume. Guess what? Bobalew was guilty of some Boardwalk hyperbole because the Geator had on an American flag shirt – no Captain America outfit —in an advertisement for Gary Barbera, the car guy. I thought to myself that back in the sixties they’d lock you up for wearing a shirt like that, and I made a turn – without looking — to pass that gem of wisdom on to Bobalew. Ka-bam! A surrey with four people sideswiped me and down I went, my bike landing, undamaged, on top of me. It was all in that slow motion that goes with crashes. At first, I thought my leg was going to break, but it was only a severe wrench of my left knee. Then I was looking up at a circle of concerned faces. I told them I thought I was okay and would someone get the bike off me. I had a helmet on, but my head never hit anything; in fact, my sunglasses were still on, totally intact. The bike was gently lifted and I stayed down until my head cleared, then slowly sat up and examined the damages: cut big toe, a gash on my left leg, a bunch of scrapes on my right arm, my left little finger jammed (I thought; more later) – and my pride severely wounded. The first thing I did was find out if anybody else was hurt – there weren’t, thank God – and then I told the people in the surrey I’d run into that I was totally at fault and glad that I was the only casualty. Then came the blessing in the whole deal. Within minutes, the same crowd who had been looking down at me produced a box of bandages, a bunch of paper napkins and a big cup of water from the pizza stand across the way, and a bunch of alcohol swabs. With Bobalew as a kind of majordomo of my misery, pointing out my damages, I was washed, swabbed, bandaged and good to go in five minutes; I also received a lot of good advice on after-care. These Samaritans were so seriously solicitous that we had to almost shoo them off before we could pedal on. They gave us proud thumbs-up, as if I’d done something great rather than the bone-headed bike gaff I’d pulled – and paid for. I was so bummed that I just went home; turned out my left little finger wasn’t broken – my hand was, and so bad that I had to have surgery, but I’m already on the mend – probably from a residue of healing vibes from those true Americans who took my welfare as part of their own and acted accordingly. From the Boardwalk, you can still catch a glimpse of the dream – even in the eyes of strangers.
5,000
sq. ft. ! of store
A Fun Place to EVERYTHING YOU’LL NEED FOR THE BEACH & MORE! Shop!
The Newest & Largest Store on the Boardwalk! Everything WILDWOOD Under One Roof! ON THE BOARDWALK BETWEEN CEDAR & SCHELLENGER
• Voted Best Book Store on the Shore • Open thru September WE HAVE BOOKS YOU CAN’T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE! CATEGORIZED & ALPHABETIZED
www.hookedonbooks.info
“You won’t believe it’s a used books store!”
21
years! USED-BOOKS LOWER PRICES GREAT SELECTION 3405 PACIFIC AVE. @ OAK IN DOWNTOWN WILDWOOD (609) 729-1132
28
the SUN by-the-Sea
“Thank God every morning when you get up,that you have something to do that day which must be done.” ~Charles Kingsley
5 MILES of Smiles! “Smiles reach the hard-to-reach places.”
Gary & Joey @ Cool Scoops
@ A&LP ~ Beth has been behind the grill since the 1980s~ she knows how to make the best sandwiches!
@ Crab Island Restaurant & Liquor Store ~ Rich & Marissa Applonia
Rob Kulisek with hostess, Sarah Peterson @ Dogtooth
@ Cool Scoops Ice Cream Parlor following a game of Summer Buckets by the Beach, the Rosenello family, along with Poppy Davenport, enjoy a sweet treat:-)
Local, Bill Markee enjoys life on the island
Breakfast @ jersey GirlThe growing GRASSI gang~ Michael, Monica, Dee, Monica, Lisa, DJ, Christine, Reagan
Shane McMonagle with his custom board from Gary’s
@ Shoobies Good Eats ~ Nancy Rullo & Lucas Bottoms makes awesome Surfer Tacos & Wraps! & the Best burgers!
the SUN by-the-Sea
“Days bright as a Golden Delicious, nights crisp as a Granny Smith. Apples make our favorite dishes...”
29
the SUN by-the-Sea
30
–Humbert Wolfe (1886–1940)
“Listen! the wind is rising,and the air is wild with leaves,We have had our summer evenings,now for October eves! “
Wildwood, New Jersey’s Grassy Sound salt marsh is as complex and ying-yang as almost any other ecosystem on the planet. If you experience it through the four seasons you understand this even more so. Grassy Sound...What a beautiful name for a place. Simple yet almost sacred. It’s like the title for a musical movement by Debussy. It could be an excellent mantra if you were prone to that kind of thing. And I was lucky enough to grow up on it for the last fifty years with my family and friends. These are truly astronomical odds. Five-hundred billion more than the biggest Power-Ball jackpot...And those of us in the right now have hit it... ~JVB Antique Postcards above from the collection of Woody G. (see his ad on page 57)
Buy this House 216 W. Glenwood Ave. Wildwood, NJ 3 BR, 2 BA, Rec Room
Get this House
214 W. Glenwood Ave. 2 BR, 1 BA
Call Now!
for a
$ 00
1.
(609) 408-8174 (215) 852-3307 Back Yard
by appointment only
Both Houses Fully Furnished! $399,000. Great Yard, Off-Street Parking, Stainless Steel/Granite Counters (216), New Cement Walk, Too many ammenities to list. www.facebook.com/West GlenwoodAve 214 can be purchased separately for $114,900.
Salt Marsh Scrapbook GIMME GRASSY SOUND SHELTER BY JOE VAN BLUNK
The Scrapbook Circa summer, 1962 My Father Babe Van Blunk is out on Grassy Sound at about 7a.m. It is one of many crabbing trips in a clunky wooden skiff rented out of Otto’s in the Wildwood Yacht Basin. Also in the boat are my Grandfather Ed Whalin and my oldest cousin Jim Anderson who was an adolescent at the time. The trip was going well from the first anchor drop. They had over a dozen big “Jimmys” scratching away in the wooden peach basket in the middle of the skiff. My Father, an irrepressible Crab-Hawk, intended to fill it to the brim and cook them that afternoon. Then out of the void the sky turned grey then dark then black. The wind picked-up, revved-up then started blowing in long full-throttle gusts. After cousin Jimmy was told to sit low in the middle of the skiff my Grandfather pulled the anchor while my Father yanked the cord on the outboard. He put it in gear just as the powerfull squall was upon them. The downpour came at them in whip-cracking sheets. Visibility was near zero; rain was filling the boat. The crabs were rattling in the basket like a crazy bunch of shadow-boxers. My Father tried to get his bearings so he could head for the dock. It was at least two miles away. As he gripped the steering handle my Father watched the normally placid surface begin to boil, froth and undulate. The skiff began to pitch and roll. The traps, bunker heads and assorted gear began to shift and slide in the deepening bilge water. They would not make it back to the dock.
Waiting to make his next move my Father recalled an old house on one of the marsh banks on the way out. It was a very faded pastel and it had been out there, with several others, for as long as he could remember. These weren’t duck blinds or hunting shacks but actual homes where people spent the summer. But he hadn’t seen people in them for years. Maybe since the summer of World War II or the early fifties. If he could back-track to this house it would be their last best hope. Otherwise they were going to run aground or be swamped. He did not want to go into the water shallow or deep. After bumping around the big brown edges of the marsh bank as my Grandfather took soundings with an oar my Father finally sighted the old house behind a thick grey curtain of wind-driven rain. They secured the skiff near a long rickety stilted dock that led to the house. My cousin Jimmy went up the makeshift Jacob’s ladder first and waited for the men. They climbed up the old 2by4 rungs and made their way unsteadily up the slightly swaying dock to the house. There was a rusty slapping screen door. It was open and they went in. Inside it was leaking, musty and full of shadows. There was some old broken furniture and a wooden table with a pile of moldy magazines on it. There was cooing in the dark rafters and the plank floor was spattered with white guano. On top of the guano were the dry husks of many dead wasps. A few minutes after taking it all in they broke out the box -lunches and cold drinks a little earlier than usual and waited for the storm to pass.
the SUN by-the-Sea
“Above all, be true to yourself, and if you cannot put your heart in it, take yourself out of it.�- Hardy D. Jackson
Go to www.neilsrestaurant.net for Fall hours
31
the SUN by-the-Sea
32
“History with its flickering lamp stumbles along the trail of the past, trying to reconstruct its scenes,. . .
Only a handful of true Wildwoodians can say. . .
“I’M A DR. MACE BABY!” To read the story of Dr. Margaret Mace go to: www.sunbythesea.com/archives/IndianSummer08 Dr._Mace_iSUM08.pdf
Dr. Margaret Mace Dec. 21, 1871 - Dec. 15, 1951
A Brief History of Dr. Margaret Mace Margaret Mace was born in Leicester, England and came to America in 1874. Around 1880 her family settled in Anglesea at a home on Spruce & New Jersey Aves. She attended grammar school and upon graduation, went to Bridgeton Institute to become a teacher. She wanted to become a nurse and began to pursue her passion for helping people. Dr. Mace graduated with her degree in medicine in 1905 from the Women’s College of Medicine in Philadelphia. She began her practice in North Wildwood at 17th & Pennsylvania Aves., later moving her expanding practice to an office at Chestnut & New Jersey Aves. She opened her hospital on 25th & Atlantic in 1915. It remained in operation for 35 years until 1950. Dr. Margaret Mace quietly passed away at 81 years of age on December 16, 1951. She died in her home which was also the hospital that bore her name, a little over 36 years after moving into it. For the past 8 years, we have honored her with this eventful photo shoot, where a handful of her 6,000 babies that she delivered gather together for a reunion. Perhaps the best tribute to this great woman are her own words which she spoke at the time of her first testimonial in 1929. She said, “There is no place on earth like my home town; no people like my home people; I came here when it was a wilderness; it is one of the finest places in the world, in my work I have tried to do my best, but I had help, helped by the hand of God.”
1. Dr. Joe Salvatore Aug. 29, 1930 2. Anita Carlson Diamond Feb. 1, 1931 3. George Carlson May 1, 1924 4. Ronald W. Griffith June 3, 1938 5. Gary Hendrixson May 3, 1946 No Number. Bill Morey April 19, 1929 6. Renie Taylor Grier July 11, 1933 7. Virginia Sheldon Morrison May 13, 1940 8. Vince Catrambone Oct. 26, 1930 9. Alice Catrambone Oct. 26, 1932 10. David Labar March 23, 1947 11. Robert Labar Nov. 26, 1949 (Our youngest Dr. Mace baby) 12. Carol Turner Leeper April 29, 1949 13. George E. Anderson Sept. 4, 1943 14. Lana Turner MacDonald Nov. 15, 1946 15. Bill Braker March 29, 1946 16. Janet Polis Blackmore Feb. 18, 1937 17. Midge Lutz Boyd Aug. 17, 1944 18. Margie Miller Patterson Aug. 5, 1933
Joseph Catrambone April 13, 1931, a Dr. Mace baby who was not able to attend the gathering. He is pictured here along with his brother Vince (who is in the above photo)
19. Susan Slamb Armour May 17, 1939 20. Beverly Gross Clark, 1938 21. Marian Shivers Mouklas July 30, 1921 (Our oldest Dr. Mace baby) 22. Janette Callaway July 6, 1936 23. Barbara Hoff Rodgers Nov. 5, 1945 24. Joan Prendergast Foley April 10, 1935 25. Anna Bierbrunner Baker April 13, 1943 26. Esther Hansen Schwartz July 30, 1932 27. Gordon A. Hansen April 8, 1936 28. James Cafiero Sept. 21, 1928 29. Irene Hess Nesbitt June 24, 1942 30. Dorothy Evensen Kirwin Sept. 2, 1931 31. Jack Mattera May 22, 1931 32. George M. Thomas Feb. 20, 1936 33. Leroy J. Thomas Feb. 20, 1936 34. Harold Thomas March 10, 1928 35. Leah Laine Dare July 18, 1925 (Our birthday girl with Dr. Mace Photo)
Anna Pauline Neal Gross born Oct. 27, 1921 by Dr. Mace. She currently resides in Doylestown, PA.
Deborah Hallman Cumback born May 27, 1942 at 4lbs. 2oz. The day after she was born, Dr. Mace came into her mother’s room to tell her the baby was not doing very well, but God bless Dr. Mace, she pulled Deborah through.
36. Cherie Davies Russell Aug. 17, 1944 37. Fred W. Neal July 3, 1929 38. Ray Lindholm Oct. 7, 1936 39. George Muller Feb. 2, 1939 40. Adelaide Bierbrunner Mazza July 7, 1938 41. Corkie Deloris Ritch-Barbiers 42. Adele Mangino Hunter Oct. 16, 1926 43. Joan Betty Myrden McGough June 12, 1934, 3:45pm 44. Janet Bierbrunner Pettit Sept. 10, 1933 45. Pat Smith Byrnes Oct. 26, 1934, 6:20pm 46. Ray Bierbrunner July 13, 1937 47. Louise Hand Mihalek Aug. 17, 1948 48. William Bierbrunner Feb. 23, 1936 49. Doris Russo Wade June 17, 1926 50. Don Richardson Jan. 4, 1945 Thank you to Steve Murray & Betty Mugnier of the Hereford Lighthouse for your help with this very special event.
SAVE the DATE for 2012! 8th Annual Dr. Mace Baby Photo & 3rd Annual Long’s Maternity Photo Monday, July 16, 2012 10am Hereford Lighthouse Call (609) 522-2721 for more info
the SUN by-the-Sea
33
. . .to revive its echoes, and kindle with pale gleams the passion of former days.”
~Winston Churchill
Only a handful of true Wildwoodians can say. . .
“I WAS BORN AT HATTIE LONG’S!”
The Long’s Maternity Home Sign hangs in the Wildwood Museum
(Left) Mrs. Hattie Long the grandmother of John Long (Right) is the maternal Grandmother of John Long
Hattie Long’s house still stands on Montgomery Ave. in Wildwood Birth Records dated between the years of 1926 to 1946
A Brief History of Long’s Maternity House In the early 1900’s, maternity homes were an easier, more comfortable, convenient way to deliver your baby and in Wildwood, there were two popular places for this! The first home, in which around 6,000 babies were delivered, was Dr. Margaret Mace’s hospital in North Wildwood. The second home, located on Montgomery Avenue in Wildwood was also a very special maternity home that was run by mid-wife, Mrs. Hattie Long. After Mr. Long passed away in 1923, Mrs. Long started the maternity home in 1926 in order to make a living for herself. The maternity home was successful for twenty years as four or more doctors worked along side of Mrs. Long to keep the business going. Mrs. Long and her team of doctors delivered around 515 babies during that time, nine of
1. Patricia Nesbitt Nagel Oct. 12, 1946 2. Anthony Dennison April 20, 1933 3. Cathy Nesbitt Smith March 25, 1944 4. Carol Tozour Lechner Dec. 14, 1941 5. Rex Allen Garrison Dec. 14, 1947 6. Paul W. Dare Feb. 16, 1949 7. Steve Wade Dec. 10, 1948 8. Karla Svard Frederick April 17, 1940 9. Ann Gaskill Rea Feb. 1, 1938 10. Linda Geiger Brown Oct. 4, 1950 11. Inge Friesenborg Laine Aug. 2, 1939 12. Audrey White Buckingham March 16, 1939 13. Louise Bebler Coront March 13, 1950 14. Louis Griesbach Jan. 19, 1937
15. John (Jack) Long Aug. 5, 1929 (the grandson of Hattie Long)
16. Dave Grasso Jan. 20, 1927 17. Evelyn “Snooks” Bailie July 27, 1936 18. Bill Callahan March 17, 1930 19. Brook Koeneke March 29, 1936 LONG’S BABIES who were here last year but were not able to attend this year. • Edwin Nesbitt Oct. 2, 1940 • Irma Friesenborg McVey Sept. 9, 1935 • Maureen Cullen Manlandro Mar. 14, 1947 • Rita Cullen Canning April 3, 1943 • Susan Sheldon Luskin Nov. 26, 1946 • Eleanor Carlson Carr Dec. 2, 1934 • John Carr Sept. 14, 1934
which were her own. Unfortunately, only seven of the nine Long babies survived; however, the oldest daughter of Mrs. Long grew up helping with the home and soon became a very helpful aid for Hattie Long during the birth processes. John Long, grandson to Mrs. Long, was born on August 5, 1929, (#15 above). He was the only guy born into the Long family during that time-”he is the last of the Long’s”. John has visited the maternity home a couple times after the maternity home was no longer; his cousin Dotty lived there after Hattie Long passed away. There was also a small house attached to the back of the maternity home in which John’s parents lived at the time as well. Although it has since been sold many times, the maternity home still stands today, filled with many memories. It still has the long, enclosed porch in which the babies were held after they were born. This was a three bedroom house, and through the duration that the house was a maternity home, the bedrooms’ upstairs were the sites of where the mothers stayed during the procedures. Mrs. Long made the living room into a bedroom for herself to make all of her guests comfortable. At a photo gathering for this maternity home in July, 2011, nineteen people that were born in the home showed up to capture the memory for a lifetime. Look for 2012 date in early next spring. by Ashley Goodsell
34
the SUN by-the-Sea
“In memories of childhood, we press our nose to the pane, looking in.” ~Robert Brault BUST PINS Not Budgets! Affordable Fun for the Whole Family!
TOGETHER
After the Beach It’s Time to Party!
3401 New Jersey Ave.Wildwood, NJ
609-729-0111 Fall Hours ht idnig 4pm-12 m
Closed Wednesdays.
www.3jwildwoodbowl.com
Wildwood BY
CINDY WHEATON PHILLIPS
There’s a special little town down by the sea, With beaches and boardwalks, Where my heart longs to be.
Pizza, Pins & Coke!
Wildwood Bowl Cool Down Bowling! Plenty of FREE Parking
Bowling is the No. 1 off-the-beach recreation!
• 2 hours of Bowling • Shoe Rentals • Lg. Cheese Pizza • Pitcher of Soda • Up to 5 people for one lane $54.95 (over $70.00 value)
$
It’s full of people I know and love, Who are all so dear to me; They tell me stories of days gone by and people I’ve never met. Their voices and laughter ring in my ears, I still hear them yet. When waves come crashing or I smell the ocean breeze, I will close my eyes and dream, I’m there with my loved ones in the special little town down by the sea.
00
5. off
PIZZA, PINS & COKE Subject to lane availability. This special cannot be used for Birthday Parties.
UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKE HOUSE Open 7am Breakfast & Lunch Plenty of Free Parking
Joseph C. Wheaton, Jr. in 1936 Cindy’s father in Wildwood by-the-sea
Burk & Pacific Aves. Wildwood by-the-sea 609-729-7557 Beach & Perry St., Cape May, NJ
609- 884-7199
Joseph C, Wheaton, Sr. and Dora Wheaton circa 1920’s Cindy’s grandparents in Wildwood by-the-sea
“Back home” were words I heard often while growing up. My parents told stories from their childhood. Even though they had moved away to Southern California, they always referred to New Jersey as home. My father, Joseph C. Wheaton, Jr. grew up in Wildwood and graduated from Wildwood High School in 1951. My mother, Evelyn Wheaton, grew up in Collingswood, but spent many summers in Wildwood vacationing and later working as a waitress at the Hotel Seville. I never tired of hearing their stories of carefree summer days spent at the beach and fun-filled nights on the boardwalk. When we were very little, my parents took my older sisters and I on our first airplane trip to visit our grandparents and other family members in New Jersey. It was so much fun to enjoy the same Wildwood beaches and boardwalk that our parents had when they were children. The sights, sounds and memories made a lasting impression on me. I’ve visited several times since then, including twice with my husband and two sons. I was glad that they too, could experience the same special summer activities that their grandparents had. My parents have visited almost every summer, but last summer my mother decided to forego the trip, and I accompanied my father instead. It was a very special fatherdaughter time that I would not have wanted to miss for the world. We spent our days driving around Wildwood with my dad pointing out various landmarks and sharing anecdotes associated with buildings and sights. As was his custom on every trip, he made mention of where he had lived and the church and high school he attended. We spent our days at the beach as well, and he talked about his time as a lifeguard. No trip would have been complete without enjoying the wonderful seafood Wildwood offers. We feasted on deviled Crabs, clams casino, flounder, and other delicacies. A highlight of any trip to Wildwood is the time spent visiting family members that we rarely get to see. Since my father was the only one of his siblings to move away from Wildwood, it has always been a joyous occasion for him to return home. We even made it a point to visit North Wildwood City Hall to see pictures displayed of my great-grandfather, Harry C. Wheaton, who was a former Mayor and New Jersey State Senator. Family is certainly the main focus of any trip to Wildwood. Although it was never my home, Wildwood holds a special place in my heart because it was and is home to people who are very precious to me. ~Cindy Wheaton Phillips
Thank you Cindy, for sharing your Wildwood memories and photos with The Sun!
the SUN by-the-Sea
35
“The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.”~Anon.
227 North Main Street Cape May Court House
4900 Park Blvd., Wildwood TM
2087 Route 9, Seaville
I’m lovin’ it
I’ll finally get to eat my sandwich now that summer is over!
130 West Spruce Ave. North Wildwood
OLD PHILLY STYLE SANDWICHES OPEN 7 DAYS
Just because the seasons are changing, doesn’t mean we are! We’re not closing up!
Yea, we’ll be open all year round!
Call Ahead for Fast Pickup (609)770-7033
On the corner of Sweetbriar & New Jersey Aves. in Wildwood Crest, NJ original artwork by Dorothy McMonagle Kulisek
the SUN by-the-Sea
36
www.wildwoo
www.SaveWildwoodCatholic.com My goodness Katie! It is getting really busy around here!
HOF
HOFFMAN AGENCY INC. 6301 Pacific Ave Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 Local: 609.522.8177 Fax: 609.523.0472
Carole in the Wildwood Crest Office
www.hoffmanagencies.com
PRICED RIGHT 3 BR, 1.5 Bath split level home has lots of storage, offstreet parking for 4 cars. Extra large lot in nice neighborhood. Lower Twp. $265,000.
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
AFFORDABLE 3BR, 2BA condo with large breezy front porch to enjoy the shore. An affordable option for your shore or year round home. North Wildwood $239,000
SIMPLIFY Live & work in this turn-of-thecentury home while enjoying an excellent location. CMCH $224,900
PRICED TO SELL Cute as a button! This 2nd Flr, 2 BR condo, perfect year round or a shore getaway. Wildwood $129,900
WATER VIEWS Lovely and well maintained 3 BR, 2.5 BA home with many extras. West Wildwood $299,900
Call the North Wildwood Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
ROOM TO GROW 3 BR, 1.5 Bath sigle family home on corner lot has finished staircase for many possibilities. Close to school, Rec and beach. Wildwood Crest. $399,900.
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
We know
180 DEGREE VIEWS. Magnificent 4 BR, 3 Bath Craftsman style home on super size lot overlooks waterway. 3rd Fl cupola offers stunning views. Diamond Beach. $899,000.
ELEGANCE AND STYLE 3 BR, 2 Bath home designed for gracious living. Sunken LR w/FP, Kit w/all amenities. Tons of closets. THIS IS A MUST-SEE. Wildwood Crest. $595,000.
ATTENTION INVESTORS! Nicely maintained Triplex in lovely West Wildwood. Two- 1 BR units on 1st Floor, 3 BR unit on 2nd $165,000
AGEN
Exceptional Homes
BEACH HOUSE AND COTTAGE.
Adorable 4 BR, 2 Bath home w/ HW fl, gas heat, gas FP, central AC. Paver porch. 2 BR cottage in rear. N. Wildwood $479,900.
“Home is your haven, a loving retreat, be it ever
the SUN by-the-Sea
dcatholic.org
37
Follow us on Facebook: Keep Wildwood Catholic High School Alive I know Carole! It’s going to be alot of fun helping all these folks!
FFMAN
NCY INC. what matters.
HOFFMAN AGENCY NORTH 2nd & New Jersey Ave. North Wildwood, NJ 08260 Local: 609.522.6333 Fax: 609.522.8350
Kate & Sunny in the North Wildwood office
www.hoffmanagencies.com
LOCATION, LOCATION!! Beautiful motel across from beach and boards has 14 rooms and 7 Effic units, plus Owner’s Quarters. Repeat clientele, heated pool. Wildwood. $2,200,000.
OCEANFRONT RETREAT. 1 BR Unit in seasonal complex w/ pool has proven history of summer rental income. Expansive view of beach. Wildwood Crest. $183,900.
GREAT RENTAL HISTORY 3BR home w/1.5 Baths, LR, DR, Den w/FP; 1 BR & Bath apt. Both have gas heat and central AC. Fenced yard. Wildwood Crest. $385,000.
PICTURE YOURSELF HERE A block to the beach, this 2 BR and Bath 2nd Fl year round condo has great rental history. Lg pool and laundry in complex. Wildwood Crest. $239,000.
MAINTENANCE FREE EXTERIOR 3 BR, 1 Bath home has LR w/gas FP, Lg Kit, enclosed sunporch. Freshly painted inside, new carpet. Nice rear yard. Wildwood Crest. $289,000.
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
Call the Wildwood Crest Office
HEART OF IT ALL Park your car for the weekend and enjoy all this property has to offer.... Beautiful beach, exciting restaurants & bars!!! This large unit features 3BR & 2BA. Wonderful rental history. North Wildwood $199,900
WATERFRONT 2 STORY With 2 boatslips, this is the most affordable waterfront property for sale in the area. West Wildwood $299,000
CORNER UNIT Gorgeous ocean views from this 2 BR year round Ocean Monarch. North Wildwood $349,000
ENJOY MAGNIFICENT VIEWS of Hereford’s Inlet as you relax on the back deck overlooking the pool! North Wildwood $499,900
EXCEPTIONAL HOME Expansive rancher on a 100x100 corner lot with a backyard oasis including a NEW salt water pool, Jacuzzi, deck & patio! 4BR & 3 full BA, too many features to list! North Wildwood $859,000
Call the North Wildwood Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
Call the North Wildwood Office
r so humble, there’s no place so sweet.” -From Reader’s Digest
Ocean included
the SUN by-the-Sea
38
“Example is the school of mankind, and they will learn at no other.”
~Edmund Burke
Wildwood Catholic High School Mid-Summer Bash @ Westy’s Irish Pub
Patrick Rosenello ‘87 & Mayor Bill Henfey
Carole Pantalone ‘66 & Stephanie Betagno ‘03
Please continue to support Wildwood Catholic High School in whatever way you can.
Stella, Carli, Kevin ‘94 and Nola Quinn
Bill (WHS)‘75 & Cecelia ‘78 Cooper with their miracle baby grandaughter Antoinette and daughter-in-law Lauren. Many prayers were answered for young Bill Cooper (missing from the photo) who is a cancer survivor.
Nina Catanoso ‘73, Loretta Dole ‘75, LouAnn Catanoso ‘75, Alice Read ‘75
The Verna sisters, Nina Catanoso ‘73, Barbara Gallagher ‘76 & Cecelia Cooper ‘78
Steve ‘95 & Jamie DelMonte
Linda & Mike Billiris ‘70, Campbell, Damien, Krista ‘94, & Bailey LaVelle
Cathryn Lederer ‘76, Victoria Lederer ‘07
John Davis ‘79
Charlie WHS ‘70 & Kevin Quinn WCHS ‘94
Rich & Linda Bischoff ‘77
the SUN by-the-Sea
“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”
WANTED!! Host Families for International Students Attending Wildwood Catholic Want to share in a cultural experience from the comfort of your own home? Host an international student for 10 months! It’s a learning experience for the whole family. Wildwood Catholic HS is in need of host families for the 2011-12 school year. International students hail from Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, S. Korea, and China. While host families are not compensated, WCHS is offering any WCHS family a tuition discount for hosting a student. Host families are also entitled to a tax deduction for each month that an exchange student stays in your home. Students have their own accident and health insurance and bring their own spending money. Students are encouraged to participate in school-sponsored activities, community service and environmental programs. Host family applications are being accepted
Mid-Summer Bash at Westy’s Irish Pub
Ginny McKenna Tirri ‘62, Pat Boyle Cras ‘60, Pati Catanoso Sparks ‘60, and Margaret Rose Balzer Zimmer ‘60
Xiao YuLiu to Study at Wildwood Catholic High School
Caitlyn ‘14, Heather ‘07, and Kathy Nanos
Come join the ”FOREVER YOUNG” Group of Mary Rosenello & Maureen Wilent
WILDWOOD CATHOLIC
HIGH SCHOOL 10/13 Baltimore Inner Harbor with visit to the Basilica. Dinner at the Rusty Scupper. All inclusive: $79 Optional river cruise: $20 11/20 “ANNIE” Pitman Theatre. Dinner at Maurice River Rest. All inclusive: $72
Ed & Jackie McWade
December Date TBA Christmas Gala at Tomasello Winery 4/19/12 “JONAH” at Sight & Sound Theater, Lancaster, PA with dinner at Palin & Fancy All inclusive: $117
For further info, Please call: Kay Tombleson 609-729-5773 or Doris Wade 609-522-5830
~Psalms 90:12
Wildwood Catholic High School
For more information, please contact Wildwood Catholic at 609-522-7257
Notre Dame de la Mer Parish on our fun-filled trips to benefit
39
Chuck Catanoso ‘70, Jack Gallagher (WHS) ‘75
It was an ordinary morning in mid July when instead of skimming the paper I decided to browse Facebook while drinking my coffee. An interesting post from Wildwood Catholic High School concerning a potential foreign exchange program jumped out at me. Something in that post peaked my interest; I wondered if there could be a student from China interested in the program. Our daughter, Brenna, was adopted from China in 2006 and shows great interest in her Chinese culture. Wouldn’t it be a fantastic opportunity for both our family to learn true Chinese custom and for a student to learn American custom? After speaking with Kevin Quinn, my husband and family discussed the option of hosting an exchange student from China for the school year. Of course, we were aware this would be a huge commitment and require some adjustment on our part yet the benefits for all involved far exceeded the reservations that may have initially been present. Brenna was almost jumping out of her skin with the thought of being a “Mei Mei” (little sister) to a Chinese girl; this only confirmed that this decision was the right one for our family. Initial paperwork was filled out; background checks were done and sent to Organization for Cultural Exchange Among Nations. On a Thursday night in the beginning of August I received a phone call from a soft spoken sixteen year old girl from China named Xiao YuLiu asking me to be her American mother. What an amazing feeling knowing that we are able to make someone’s dreams of studying in America come true. She is from Haerbin, China (Northern) which is one of the fifth largest cities in China with a population of approximately 9.6 million people. I believe she may be in for some culture shock. Xiao Yu asked for photos of our family which we sent her with a card welcoming her into our family. She explained that she loves school, plays the piano, violin and writes music. In China she is learning tennis and enjoys swimming. Honestly, I do not think I know a sixteen year old who would have enough confidence and nerve to study half way around the world and live with strangers. I commend her on this. As Xiao Lu’s arrival date is getting closer, I find myself getting more and more excited. Our family has a trip to Disney World and New York planned that we are anxious for Xiao Lu to join us on. There are additional cities we plan on traveling to as well. This year celebrating holidays and everyday “ordinary” occasions will not be so ordinary for us. How wonderful it will be for us to share our traditions with another person and to learn Chinese custom and tradition. I am grateful to Wildwood Catholic High School for the opportunity presented to my family and somehow wish there was a way to give Xiao Lu’s parents comfort in knowing that she will be cared for with love, protected and well taken care of. ~Barbara Farrel
the SUN by-the-Sea
40
“Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.”
~Mother Teresa
The Hustle Inn, Wildwood, NJ 1951-1980
Anita Smith in her boardwalk store
nita Rubin and Ellis Smith’s story began at teen dances in Lansdale, PA where “they danced 7 days a week and Sunday afternoons and even would take their homework with them.” They married November 18, 1944 and quickly settled in to wedded bliss. In 1946, they began their long, successful career as entrepreneurs with the purchase of an 1848 farmhouse and barn on Rt. 611 in Doylestown, Pa. They converted the barn into The Hustle Inn, a nonalcoholic teenage dance club. It was a dream come true that lasted until 1969. True romantics, they furnished their sweet dream with wooden tables in which couples were welcomed to carve their names in hearts. Fittingly, many met their true love there. Adding to the romantic motif, Mr. & Mrs. Smith held an annual Mr. & Mrs. Hustle Inn Contest complete with a crowning ceremony and trophies. As a salute to sophisticated days, everyone was required to dress properly, with women wearing dresses and men wearing suits. The menu was personally prepared by Anita and Ellis and consisted of cold cuts sandwiches, French fries, and homemade ice cream and sundaes (with soda as the beverage of choice). The admittance fee was $1.50, but $1.50 worth of food was included with the entry price. An economical, entertaining time was had by all! In 1951, during a break from contests and cold cuts preparations, Anita brought Ellis to Wildwood and the next chapter of their lives began happily by the sea. Clearly possessing a keen business sense and a unique way with people, the Smiths set out on their latest and sunniest business venture. That same year, they made their mark on Wildwood’s boardwalk when they purchased a key from a Mr. Crone
A
HUSTLE INNS for $2500 for a tiny luncheonette at 23rd & the Boardwalk (where the King’s Motel Inn is). They expanded the luncheonette the length of the motel and turned it into a variety store, and a tribute to their first business endeavor, called The Hustle Inn. They managed the store until 1980. For approximately eight years, Anita and Ellis also managed “Chest of Treasures,” a variety store near the south end of the boardwalk on Baker Ave. True self-starters, they owned Holiday Preview at Maple and Pacific Aves from 1980 until 2001. Having found their own treasure within a welcoming community, Anita and Ellis would spend many happy summers along the coast with their daughter, Linda. After many years of marriage and 50 years of invaluable contributions to Wildwood’s economy, Ellis passed away while Anita quietly retired. Fortunately, she hasn’t lost her “go-getter” attitude and continues to maintain many important tasks. The ultimate social butterfly, she fancies herself the Official Greeter for many of Wildwood’s church and senior functions that she frequently attends. She is also the lovely organizer and Queen of the Birthday Club, which meets at Key West Café on Andrews & Pacific Aves in Wildwood whenever there is a birthday in the group. After her many years of organizing happy events, Anita is clearly the perfect person for the job! Anita was the queen for a day on November 4, 2010 when she celebrated her 85th birthday with all of her birthday club friends in attendance. History has shown that Anita knows how to draw a crowd and this special day was no exception. We here at The Sun wish her many wonderful Wildwood years to come! ~Meg Corcoran / Dorothy Kulisek
The original Hustle Inn Luncheonette at 23rd & the Boardwalk, purchased by the Smith’s for $2500 from Mr. Crone in 1951.
A painting given to Anita as a gift of her Hustle Inn
1970s ~ Anita in the Hustle Inn with some of her faithful employees such as Fred Musso & Mary Maguire.
Ellis Smith in the Hustle Inn
Anita with her daughter Linda
Boardwalk Merchants, Anita Smith & Rachel Matteucci, 1976 The Matteucci’s owned several food stores at Sportland and at Oak & the Boardwalk. They also had a beach stand at the back of Sportland Pier.
Anita & Ellis another one of their stores, Chest of Treasures on the south end of the Boardwalk, c. 1960
the SUN by-the-Sea
41
“Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.”
~Abraham Lincoln
The Hustle Inn, Doylestown, PA 1946-1969
The Smith family at The Hustle Inn, 1953
The wedding of Mr. & Mrs. Ellis Smith
The converted farmhouse and barn that became the Hustle Inn
The crowning ceremony of Mr. & Miss Hustle Inn. Anita & Ellis are presenting the trophy. Anita & Ellis Smith, founders and owners of The Hustle Inn
Anita wearing her birthday hat. She celebrated her 85th this past winter with her ‘Birthday Club’ girls at Key West Cafe in Wildwood.
Anita & Ellis at their Wildwood store at Maple & Pacific, c. 1985
Email Sun-by-the-sea@verizon.net if you remember the Hustle Inn in Doylestown or on the Wildwood boardwalk. Include “Hustle Inn” in the subject line and send us your memories.
42
the SUN by-the-Sea
“You must not blame me if I do talk to the clouds.”
“I
~Henry David Thoreau
The lagoon at Hereford Inlet, North Wildwood, Photo by Dorothy Kulisek,
know not how to express otherwise…
The appearance of everything was altered; there seemed to be, as it were, a calm, sweet, cast, or appearance of divine glory, in almost everything. God’s excellency, his wisdom, his purity and love, seemed to appear in every thing; in the sun, moon, and stars; in the clouds and blue sky; in the grass, flowers, trees; in the water, and all nature; which used greatly to fix my mind. I often used to sit and view the moon for a long time; and in the day, spent much time in viewing the clouds and sky, to behold the sweet glory of God in these things: In the meantime, singing forth, with a low voice, my contemplations of the Creator and Redeemer. . .” ~Jonathan Edwards on Beauty
the SUN by-the-Sea
“It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.”
43 ~Anon.
Lifeguard Hot Dog Run August 13, 2011 ~ The HOT DOG CREW: Joe, Nancy, Luke & Cain Rullo of SHOOBIES, Maureen and Kevin Tinneny, Paula, Pat and Michael Raila, Gina Prickril(missing), Kaitlyn Boyle, NWBP Lt. Chuck Iepson The Annual Hot Dog Run is our shout out to the N.W.B.P. for keeping our beaches safe all summer long! THANK YOU! I’d also like to thank the Rullo’s of Shoobies Good Eats for their generous donations that support this great event. We bring enough dogs & buns so each lifeguard gets 2, w/choice of mustard, ketchup, kraut, along with soda and a snack. Chief Tony Cavalier checks the tide table (we need low tide for the jeep) and gives us a date. We ride from 26th Ave. up to the Inlet and each year we’re amazed at how excited the guards are—as though they are getting surf and turf!!! ~See you next summer! Kevin Tinneny
“BEST BURGER” FREETIME
“BEST LUNCH SPOT” JERSEY SHORE MAGAZINE
We deliver to the beach.
A new eatery with an eclectic menu at 25th and New Jersey in always sunny North Wildwood 609.522.7466 (Shoo) www.shoobiesgoodeats.com
and let the second season begin!
44
the SUN by-the-Sea
“Every action of our lives touches on some chord that will vibrate in eternity.”
~Edwin Hubbel Chapin
SPORTS Your 2011 Philadelphia Phillies BY DANIELLE WILSON As of today, August 21st, the Philadelphia Phillies are the best team in Major League Baseball. They are the last team to have reached 40 losses on the season and the first team to reach 80 wins. Their worst starter, other than the injured Joe Blanton, is a former NLCS MVP and is considered an ace, as he should be. I’ll let you take that all in for a second before I continue. Just to do a quick check-in, let me start with saying that the pitching is still arguably the best in the majors, starting rotation and bullpen. The youngsters in the ‘pen have helped a great deal when the starting pitcher can’t complete a game, which Phillies fans expect from Halladay, Lee, Hamels, and Worley at this point. Oswalt is just coming off of the disabled list and will, as expected, need a little time to bounce back. Just how good is the pitching? Halladay, Lee, and Hamels have all won eleven games or more, and Vance Worley is shaping up to be a fantastic fourth or fifth starter, boasting a miniscule 2.76 earned run average in 15 games started for the Phils. The bullpen’s 3.42 earned run average is the ninth best in the majors, and they have combined to hold batters to a .229 batting average.
Behind the pitching is the suddenly consistent offense, which now includes Hunter Pence, their new right fielder from Houston. He was acquired in a trade that sent pitching prospects Jarred Cosart and Josh Zeid to Houston, along with top outfield prospects Johnathan Singleton and Domingo Santana. Pence is exactly what the Phillies needed: a legitimate five-hole hitter in the lineup. He has already showed off his skills, seeing that he has hit safely in 15 of 18 games played on the team, smacking out four home runs. (Again, as of August 21st) From the get-go of spring training, the pitching was definitely there, but the lineup was questionable due to the “aging veterans” on the team, who have respectfully put up good enough numbers to keep the Phillies ahead of the pack in the National League East, and the Majors for that matter. “Aging veterans” or not, this team will more than likely bring another red October to Philadelphia.
the SUN by-the-Sea
“I always prefer to believe the best of everybody, it saves so much trouble.”
45 ~Rudyard Kipling
the SUN by-the-Sea
46
“Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.”
A Wildwood Love Story
Anglesea Baptist Church
~Proverbs 3:17
Eureka Baptist Church
3rd & Atlantic Ave. 522-2951 Sunday Worship 10:30am Eve. Prayer Meeting 6pm Wednesday Family Bible Classes 7pm
BY TIM CUMMINGS
Asbury A.M.E. Church
142 W. Spencer Ave. 522-1028 Sunday School 9:45am Sunday Service 11am Wed Prayer 7-8pm
First Presbyterian Church 4511 Pacific Ave. 522-1244 Sunday Service 11am Wed. Bible Study 10am Youth Program Fri. eve
Young & New Jersey Ave. 729-5584
NOTRE DAME DE LA MER PARISH Assumption RC Church 7110 Seaview Ave. Wildwood Crest 522-4114
First U. M. C. of Wildwood Crest 6700 Atlantic Ave. 729-4265 Sunday Service 9:30 Women’s Bible Study Tues. 9:30am Pastor’s Bible Study Wed. 11am
Mon-Fri 8:30am Sat. 4pm Sunday 8:30am
St. Ann's RC Church 2900 Pacific Ave. Wildwood 522-2709
Summer of 2011 in Wildwood, N.J. ~ Tim Cummings with his 5 children, (L-R) Maria, Jude, John, Anna & Elizabeth. (R) Tim & Renee
It was the summer of 1994, and we were young. Renee and I had met a few years earlier at Bible camp, and during high school had written letters to each other (the ancient type, that you had to lick and seal, before the days of e-mail!) I had graduated from high school, and Renee had finished her junior year. We had both been accepted as staff members at the Boardwalk Chapel, a storefront ministry down near the Convention Center, and next to Angelo’s Pizza. That summer something happened. There were long talks. We sang together. We worked together at the summer staff residence, the “Dunn House” (named after Boardwalk Chapel founder, Pastor Leslie Dunn of Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 119 E. Rio Grande Ave.). I suppose you could call it “puppy love,” but it was very significant to us! We went to college, and talked about marriage, and then had a serious falling out. We hardly talked for years. God had to work on both of us. Then, slowly, the ice on our hearts started to melt. We started to write (still with stamps!), and then to talk. Then my paths led me back down to Wildwood, to the Boardwalk Chapel. After a program one evening, Jon Stevenson, the Chapel director, took me “out back” for a man-to-man chat. He knew that my relationship with Renee was blossoming again, and gave me a little kick in the pants to help me accelerate things. On my way home (Salem County, NJ), I remember passing my familiar sights like Menz’s Restaurant and thinking something like, “Yeah, why not pop the question
now?” So I found a ring and asked her the next week. That was July of 2001. Six years later, in the summer of 2007, my mother had passed away. Renee and I, now married with three children, were looking to relocate to New Jersey. I spoke to Pastor Jim Zozzaro, who had been my youth group leader back in high school, and to the elders at Calvary Church, who opened a staff position at the church for me. We moved to the Dunn House, where our romance had blossomed back in 1994, with our children, and then to a rental near the church building. We had another child while living here, and our fifth came this summer. We are planning to move to Trinidad this September for mission work. Our children now know Wildwood as “home,” know Calvary as their home church, and have enjoyed the ministry of the Boardwalk Chapel. Some say our lives are like a tapestry, and God is the Artist. He weaves, and we often just see the back side of the work, crossed and knotted. But from time to time, I believe, with the eyes of faith, we catch a glimpse of the Master’s hand. And that is just what I believe we have seen in our Wildwood love story. Interestingly enough, we are now living a stone’s throw from where my great-grandparents once spent their summer vacations, and from where my great-uncle took a respite from missionary work in Korea. I am sure there is much more to the tapestry than meets even the eyes of faith! Because God causes all things to work together for good for those who love Him and follow Jesus (Romans 8:28).
Sat. 5:30pm / Sun. 10am Weekday Masses Mon-Fri 7am, Marian Devotions Sat. 9am Sun 7pm, Spanish Mass
Beth Judah Temple Pacific & Spencer Aves. 522-7541 Shabbat Services Saturday 9:30am
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 2810 Atlantic Ave. 522-5000 8am Spoken Service w/Communion 10:30am Traditional Service w/Communion ~ Sunday School. Third Sunday of each Month 10:30am Contemporary Blended Service w/ Communion
North Wildwood United Methodist Church
Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Plenty of parking
2nd & Central Ave. 522-2271 Sunday Service 9am
119 E. Rio Grande Ave. 522-8489 Sunday School 9:45 Sunday Service 11am Eve. Service 6pm Sunday 6pm 97.9fm radio
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox 301 Anglesea Ave., 522-0152 Orthos 9am Divine Liturgy 10am
Central Bible Church 18th Ave. & Central Ave. 522-5917 Sunday Service 11am & 6pm
St. Simeon's by-the-Sea Episcopal 26th & Central Ave. 522-8389 Sun. Holy Communion 9am Wed. Healing 6:30pm
Crest Community Church Crocus & Pacific Aves 522-1618 Sunday Services VERY CASUAL: 9:30AM KIND OF FORMAL: 11AM
West Wildwood Bible Church 9 Neptune Avenue 523-8863 Sunday Service 10am Eve. Prayer 6pm Wed. Prayer 7pm
‘MORE THAN ENOUGH’ FOOD PANTRY
First Baptist Church Maple & Atlantic Ave. 522-2981 Sunday School 9:30am Sunday Service 11am
THE FREE MEAL CENTER 1206 Rt. 9S in Burleigh freemealcenter.com
"If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world." ~C.S. LEWIS
HOPE PREGNANCY CENTER 3808 Rt. 9S Rio Grande 609-886-7022
321 West Ave. Ocean City 609-398-9449
www.hopepregnancyofnj.com For more info: (609) 884-1861
the SUN by-the-Sea
47
"When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight." -Kahlil Gibran
Victor, the only child of Roxane and Vic Krivitski, was diagnosed with Medistinal Germ Cell cancer in December 2010. He was in his junior year as a Geology Major at Colgate University, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity, a rugby player, and radio host for the school’s radio station. Victor lived his 21 years to the fullest. In his leisure time he enjoyed biking, hiking and rock climbing, camping and scuba diving. Most summers he would be found working alongside his father at their family bicycle shop in Wildwood Crest, Algie’s. However, last summer of 2010, Victor set out for Colorado to pursue his dream of being a white water rafting guide at Wilderness Aware Rafting on the Arkansas River. This photo shows how much he loved that job. Shortly after his return back to school, his battle with cancer began. We will remember him in our hearts always, especially as he inspired us through his strength and bravery into the face of death. Victor passed away peacefully in his home with his parents and friends by his side. May God bless you Victor. A Beef and Beer Fundraiser will be held at the Bayview Inn, Thursday, Sept 8th at 6:30pm with DJ Rich Platt. Silent Auction. $20 donation. Please help support the Krivitski’s however big or small
the SUN by-the-Sea
48
“Between saying and doing many a pair of shoes is worn out.” ~Italian Proverb
WiLDW OO D by-the-sea: Nostalgia & Recipes
Silen’s Dept. Store BY ANITA HIRSCH Some businesses have existed in Wildwood for many years....some two generations, some three generations and a few even longer. Silen’s Department Store has been in business in the same family and in the same location, for four generations. In 1902, John Silen was operating a marine supply business in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia where he sold everything from fishing rods to boats. He wanted to move to the shore area to open the same type of business. In 1911, he purchased a lot in Holly Beach on Pacific between Hand and Leaming Avenues where the store is still located. It was fairly close to the beach then and off the beaten track which John liked. A small building was constructed on the property in 1913. By 1919, John and his wife, Selma, moved to Wildwood into a second floor apartment above the store and operated the marine business. Their oldest daughter Lily ( Lillian) was working in the store also. Helen, their youngest daughter, became a school teacher and married K.T. Johansen. Lily, married Arne Rasmussen, a Merchant Marine. In the 1930’s, Lily and Arne took over the Silen’s store. Their son, Keith was born in the apartment over the store, where they lived. Now, only offices are above the store. Keith participated in football in Wildwood and was nominated to the all-star grid team. After graduating from Wildwood High, Keith attended Wilkes College in WilkesBarre, Pennsylvania, where he met his wife, Evelyn. After graduation, they both came back to Wildwood, and Keith and Evelyn took over operation of the store in the early 50’s. The merchandise sold at Silen’s began to change around 1940. Less marine equipment and more summer clothing and shoes became popular with the citizens of Wildwood as well as the tourists. The business evolved into more of a clothing and shoe store. Four years ago, Silen’s stopped carrying children’s shoes. Bathing suits and several brands of shoes, including Ugg’s became the most popular items.
Silen’s is open all year around but most of the business is conducted in the warmer months. When the merchandise changed to resort wear, they began to open every day in the summer. They employ between 4-11 part time depending on the season. As a generation retired, another took over. Keith and Evelyn Rasmussen retired and live in Wildwood Crest. Their daughter, Paula lives in Arizona. Their son, Barry took over the shoe part of the business in 1985 and in 1990, he took over the entire business. Barry enjoys working in Silen’s. When he was employed there as a teenager, he especially enjoyed meeting customers. He learned a lot about business under his grandmother’s watchful eye, “she was a taskmaster. She was the best business teacher I could have had”. Barry attended Wildwood High where he was on the swimming team. He was also on the swimming team at Wilkes College where he majored in business, and also met his wife, Patricia. While at Wilkes, he took a part time job at the Kinney shoe store in Wilkes-Barre. After college, Barry and Pat came back to Wildwood. He came back to work in Silen’s and Pat worked for the Cape May County Welfare Board. Now they work in the store...full time for both. They spend the fall attending trade shows, shopping for merchandise for the following summer, and then as the merchandise is delivered, they spend time ticketing everything and then the season begins and they are busy with customers. While their two sons chose not to work in the store, they preferred being summer lifeguards instead. They both met their wives, who are both teachers, on the beach. Their son Dan became a financial analyst and lives in Flemington, NJ. Their son, Jim, is a teacher in Keyport, and continues to spend his summers on the Wildwood Crest Beach Patrol. The location of the store worked out well for Silen’s. Pacific Avenue
Silen’s 2011 Barry & Pat Rasmussen in Silen’s, 2011
Silen’s BLUEBERRY BUCKLE Pat Rasmussen makes this when guests are expected. It is a good breakfast cake and also good as a dessert, served warm with ice cream.
Silen’s, c. 1960
1/4 c butter 3/4 c sugar 1 egg 2 c flour 2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt 3/4 c milk 1 tsp. vanilla 2 c blueberries TOPPING: Mix together with your hands until crumbly 1/4 c butter 1/2 c sugar 1/3 c flour 1 tsp. cinnamon
Silen’s ads from 1942 and 1954
became a well-traveled street in the summers. Part of the large lot that John Silen purchased in 1911, is now welcome as a parking lot. Recently a woman came in the store to shop and she happily claimed to have found a special bathing suit in Silen’s every year for the past 80 years! Now that is a satisfied customer!
Cream butter, add sugar then egg. Add dry ingredients alternately with the milk and vanilla to the butter mixture. Batter will be stiff. Fold in the blueberries then pour into a 9x13 greased pan. Sprinkle with the topping and bake in a 375 oven for about 35 minutes.
Thank you to Barry and Pat Rasmussen, and the Wildwood Historical Museum for helping with this article. The ads are from the collection of Dave and Theresa Willams. The 1960 photo of Silen’s was featured in a story in The Sun on the history of Bowman’s Cooling & Heating.
the SUN by-the-Sea
49
“He gives us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.” ~Acts 14:17 Wishing everyone a happy & safe Fall Festival Season!
Bella Vida Cafe “at the Beach”
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Stefankiewicz & Barnes, LLC 111 East 17th Street • Suite 100 • North Wildwood Tel: 17th (609) 729-5250 Fax: (609) WILDWOOD 522-7532 Ave. •NORTH
BREAKFAST & LUNCH David Stefankiewicz 609-729-7290
ANGLESEA CARPET CARE AND RESTORATION 24 HOUR EMERGENCY WATER EXTRACTION (609) 224-9356 (609) 522-1759
Scotchgard
TM
Bella Vida means “Beautiful Life”. Our prayer is that all who visit with us would experience a “beautiful life.” ~JOHN 3:16
Two Local Cafes with. . . A Wholesome Aroma TM
CARPET RESTORATION SYSTEM
Carpet Protector
Breakfast Served All Day Vegetarian Friendly Costa Rican Coffee Fabulous Flapjacks Ultimate Omelettes Signature Sandwiches Sensational Salads Kids Menu Outdoor Seating
Specializing in Central Air Conditioning & Gas Forced Air Heat for 3 Generations
Bella Vida at the Beach Ocean & Buttercup Wildwood Crest, NJ 609.522.4777
Bella Vida on Broadway 406 N. Broadway West Cape May, NJ 609.884.6332
www.bellavidacafe.com Menu items & prices vary per location.
WILDWOOD-BY-THE-SEA: NOSTALGIA AND RECIPES This collection includes her columns which have appeared in The SUN-by-the-sea, which are nostalgia-packed, lavishly illustrated with photos and includes more than fifty recipes in all. Revisit people and places that make the Wildwoods so special. Read how Wildwood-by-the-Sea came to be: stories of your favorite places with more than 250 photos that will take you back to the best times of your youth and your family vacations. Memories of the boardwalk, the beach, the ocean, the sand, sand castles, the tram car, and the food...here is your chance to revisit your favorite memories of Wildwood-By-The-Sea..
Beach Whiskers • Cool Scoops • Duffers • Groff ’s • Hereford Lighthouse Hooked on Books • Ocean View Grill • Surfside West Diner • Winterwood Waikiki Gift Shop • Wildwood Crest Museum • Wildwood Museum
Send Check or M.O.
$
19.95
plus $6. shipping & handling
COOLING & HEATING, INC NJ License # 13VH01834100
1-800-638-4393 www.bowmansair.com 5104 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood • 522-0121 • Fax 522-7313
Name _____________________________________ Address ___________________________________
to: Anita Hirsch
City, State, Zip _____________________________
P.O. Box 295, 3140B Tilghman St. Allentown, PA 18104
Phone ____________________________________
OR
Quantity _______ Total ___________
www.tasteofwildwood.com
50
the SUN by-the-Sea
“A morsel of genuine history is a thing so rare as to be always valuable.”
~Thomas Jefferson
Bud & Pat Craven, my GREAT Grandparents! BY SCOTT JETT
North Wildwood Fire Chief 1951-1973, Giles (Bud) Craven Bud Craven 1928, his home at 109 W. 18th Ave. in North Wildwood
Scott Jett and Nanny Craven, June 1982
T
heir real names were Giles and Mamie, but to everyone that knew them they were Bud and Pat. To me, they were Poppy and Nanny Craven, my mother’s parents. Pop was born in Philadelphia in 1906 and Nan in Highfield, Maryland in 1912. Both families were here on the island by 1921. On a Saturday afternoon in 1925 Nanny was at the movies with a friend when they noticed two older boys sitting across from them. Throwing peanuts at the boys not only got their attention, but also a walk home from the movies and a date the following week. Poppy was working at Colsons Lumber Yard, across the street from where Nan’s family lived, so he saw her often and they were married on June 17, 1927. The 1930 Keystone Telephone Directory lists Giles Craven Jr., residence, 109 W. 18th Avenue, N. Wildwood, telephone # 68-M. Four children arrived between 1928 and 1937: Giles III, (known as Buster), Albert (Ted), Jay and Cheronne (Ronnie, my mother). Anne Vinci’s column in the last issue of the SUN mentioned the game on the Boardwalk with boy and girl pigs. Ted worked there and at the end of one summer the owner gave him a pig to take home, where it was given the name of Oink-Oink. Ted came home one day and went out to check on Oink-Oink, but he wasn’t there. When Ted came into the house and asked if anyone had seen Oink-Oink, Poppy told him to sit down at the table, dinner was ready - they were having pork that night.
Pat & Bud Craven on vacation in Yosemite, CA, September 1962
Ed Cox and Bud Craven on 17th Ave.1950s
In 1937, shortly after my mother was born, the family packed up and left for California in search of better income. Things didn’t work out there and before the end of 1938 they were back in North Wildwood. Pop was able to get his old job back at Colsons and the family moved into 103 W. 18th Avenue, just 3 doors down from the house they had left the year before. In 1943 they moved around the corner to 104 W. 17th Avenue. Poppy had joined the North Wildwood Fire Department as a volunteer in 1927 and was appointed as a paid fireman in 1942. He was promoted to Chief in 1951 and held that position until his retirement in 1973. I was growing up right behind the firehouse and would see Poppy often. He and Mr. Ed Cox were always there. They yelled when I decided to throw my baseball against the back wall of the firehouse (no one else to play catch with that day, I guess), but there were plenty of opportunities to climb in fire engines and blow the noon whistle. When Piro’s Little Club burnt down in 1957, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Fire Chief Giles Craven had soaking wet clothes on because, living less than a block away, he ran straight to the fire instead of first going to the firehouse to put on his fireman’s attire. I watched the Hotel Roosevelt fire at 26th & Atlantic from atop the shoulders of a family friend, as Pop and my dad were busy fighting the fire. One memory remains from the next day, when they took me inside what was left of the hotel - the black plastic running down the walls from the melted telephones. We would stop and visit Nan and Pop every Sunday after church. They had one closet with boxes of toys for us to play with. The first time I ever had headphones on was when Poppy showed me how they worked and then put in an 8-track tape of Eddie Arnold. Poppy
was usually there on Sundays, but if you went any other day of the week, he was either at the Firehouse or out fishing, usually at the Wildwood Crest Fishing Pier. It seemed like he brought home a bucket of bluefish every day. He would keep some for himself and Nan, and the rest would be left on someone else’s doorstep. In 1988 I became acquainted with a gentleman from Burleigh named Al Ruthenbeck. I once asked him if he had ever lived on the island or if he had always lived off shore. He replied, “I’ve always lived off shore. But I spent a lot of time in North Wildwood fishing off the rock pile with a fellow named Bud Craven.” Al and I became good friends. The property at 104 W. 17th Avenue had a house and 2 apartments. When the children were grown, the house got divided, making 4 apartments altogether. Nan and Pop lived in one and rented out the other three. Their four children, when they got married, and most of their grandchildren, lived at one time or another in one of the apartments before moving into their own homes. When someone that was not a member of the family occupied one of the apartments, they were treated like family anyway. Nan and Pop were always taking someone somewhere. They drove tenants to doctor’s and dentist’s appointments and babysat children and took women to the hospital to give birth if the husbands weren’t home. Nan was forever knitting booties and sweaters and Pop was always giving them fish and fixing things. The “Craven Compound” was a tight-knit group of families, no matter what families were living there. Nan had worked at the theater in the early days as the pianist during the silent movies. She also worked at the Little Club and was the hostess at Johnson’s Restaurant at Burk & Pacific. After retirement she occupied herself with ceramics, making all kinds of things, which
Scott Jett and Poppy Craven, Feb. 1965
she would usually give away to others when done. She made manger-scene ceramic figures for all of her grandchildren to put under their own Christmas trees. Nan would never pass up an opportunity to make someone laugh. When Poppy died in 1976, she met with Ben Ingersoll to make the funeral arrangements, obituary, etc. Part of the conversation went like this: Ben: How many children do you have? Nan: 4 children, 3 still living. Ben: How many grandchildren? Nan: 12. Ben: Any great-grandchildren? Nan: 12. Ben: 12 great-grandchildren!? Nan: Yes, they’re all great. Ben: The grandchildren? Nan: I only have great grandchildren - 12 of them. Nan put him through a family-themed “Who’s on First?” That was how she got through difficult times - laughing, and helping others to do the same. In the early 1980’s she fell and broke her ankle. I never saw her laugh so hard as when Uncle Ted was trying to wheel her out of her apartment on a hand truck. She was the one in pain but made the situation so comical we almost forgot that she was hurt. I don’t know if anyone else would characterize me and my brothers and all of my cousins as great, but we certainly had GREAT grandparents.
the SUN by-the-Sea
51
“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.”~Anon.
BEECHER-KAY Realty Co.
Providing Service to the Wildwoods for 104 Years! 1907-2011 Homeowners • Motels • Restaurants Boats • Retail Stores • Auto • Flood Sales & Rentals Available
101 E. Wildwood Ave., Wildwood, NJ 609-522-2434
Fax: 609-522-6280
Check out Beecher-Kay nostalgic trivia on Page 60!
All You Need is LOVE! Business & Residential ■ Web Design & Hosting Computer Programming “If you’re looking for a savvy, practical vendor for your IT needs, Magic Brain Computing is a wise choice.” ~JOSEPH GRASSI OF BARRY, CORRADO, GRASSI & GIBSON
609-729-1301
LOVE’S PEST CONTROL Complete Pest Control Services ~ 24/7
Termite & Pest Control Flea & Tick Control Specialists COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE 609-463-0778 OCEAN CITY 609-390-7901
Bed Bug Treatment!
WILDWOOD, NJ
609-729-0110
CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
the SUN by-the-Sea
52
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also”
~Matthew 6:21
Simple Pleasures BY LOUANN CATANOSO As I sit on my front porch watching the sun set over the bay, my mind is beginning to wander. Floating through the window screen behind me is the music of Johnny Bristol, Skylark, and Brenda and The Tabulations. I actually made the tape in 1974, on the little blue cassette tape recorder my brother Chuck gave me for my birthday. It sounds as though it was recorded ‘yesterday’.
My daughter Lauren who is at the top of my list. PAINTING BY ANN MARSHALL
I’m feeling especially cozy in my comfy old Trenton State sweatshirt, Wigwam socks, and jeans. I consider myself an old fashioned girl. (Is it ok to refer to yourself as a ‘girl’ if your 56 years old?) I don’t own, or use a computer, ever. I still find joy in phoning someone, or dropping them a letter or card in the mail. It is the simple things in life that make me happy, and I have decided to share ‘just a few’ of these things that make my heart smile. I absolutely loved when Sidney Poitier fast danced with his student in the movie ‘To Sir With Love’. And, how cute was Tom Hanks when he danced with Jenny, to the song ‘Sweet Home Alabama’, in ‘Forrest Gump’? I also loved the female robot in the movie ‘Bicentennial Man’, who danced to Aretha Franklins’ ‘Respect’. Some great songs (for us humans) to dance to include, ‘Got to Give it Up’, by Marvin Gaye, ‘Bell Bottom Blues’, by Derek and the Dominos, ‘Isn’t it Romantic’, by Ella Fitzgerald, and ‘A Very Special Love Song’, by Charlie Rich.
Gram’s 24 Charms 80th birthday surprise, April 2011.
Lily sleeping with her nose tucked in.
LouAnn & Steven, the puppy, 1976.
Choosing great love scenes in movies is tough. What I consider romantic, may not be the least bit romantic to someone else. In the movie ‘Home Fries’ with Luke Wilson and Drew Barrymore, Luke’s character goes to a child birth class with her. And even though she is pregnant with someone else’s child, you can see the love and respect he has for her, in his eyes. To me, the look on his face during these scenes, is ‘what life is all about’. In the ‘Godfather’ movie there is a great love scene which takes place when Michael (Al Pacino) is in Italy. He is sitting at one end of huge table filled with people. His love interest is at the opposite end of the table. She looks at him and touches the necklace she is wearing, which he had given her, and smiles ever so gently. He in turn, gives her back the same subtle smile and nods his head. That’s it. The love scenes in the movie ‘Baby Boom’ with Dianne Keaton, takes place between her, and her newly ‘inherited’ baby daughter. Beautiful.....
Dad with Mom, sporting her Charm necklace, April 2011
‘Out of the mouths of babes’. Children are so cute and innocent, so when they make unusually honest statements to you it’s hard to get annoyed. Recently I was sitting on the beach with my four year old nephew, Kallen. I saw him looking down at my feet, and he looked up at me and said, “You have old feet”. So, I answered, “I know, and I have an old face too.” (I figured I’d beat him to the punch). And then (without me asking him to) he cuddled up in my lap and shared his blanket with me. It was nice; and kind of reminded me of my ‘comfy old sweatshirt’. When I am home at night, nothing gives me more pleasure than watching my little dog, Lily, sleeping with her nose tucked down into her front paws. And, saying “goodnight, love you”, every single night, on the phone, to my daughter, who lives three hours away, is at the top of my list. But, one of my favorite moments in life, is watching the expression on my mom’s face when someone asks her about her charm necklace. She beams with pride as she explains that the 24 charms represent her 16 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
LouAnn & Kallen, the infamous foot inspector.
A Beautiful Townbamk Sunset.
These are just ‘some’ of the little things that make me happy. ‘Ah, the simple pleasures of life’.
~ The ‘simple pleasure’ of hanging out with friends ~ Dorothy Kulisek, Nina Catanoso, Loretta Dole, Alice Read & LouAnn Catanoso at the Wildwood Catholic High School Mid-Summer Bash held at Westy’s this summer. Dedication: This story is dedicated to my good friend, Dorothy, another ‘old fashioned girl’ who appreciates the warmth of the sun, the sand between her toes, and the magic of a sunset. Editor’s Note: Thanks LouAnn:-)
the SUN by-the-Sea
53
“Some people are like wheelbarroiws; they stand still unless someone pushes them” ~Anon.
Gift Certificates make healthy gifts!
t a s u e e s e m “Co ” h t n e T t a m the Gy We have
need! everything you
(609) 729-2286 10th & New Jersey Ave. North Wildwood, NJ Find us on facebook “The Gym at 10th Street” www.the gymat10thstreet.com
ERNEST TROIANO, JR., PRESIDENT
609-522-3355 CONCRETE & MASONRY CONTRACTORS Four Generations Serving THE WILDWOODS & Cape May County for over 92 years! QUALITY COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL WORK
WORKING OUT WITH MIA CHIARELLA Well, here it is August, and by the looks of the Christmas decorations in the stores, I am guessing that summer is over. The transition from the freedoms we’ve enjoyed to the schedules of Fall can be depressing. Packing lunches and beach bags for a day in the sun is certainly more uplifting than packing lunches and schoolbags, or briefcases for a day at school or the office. Keeping a positive attitude certainly helps; obviously summer can’t last forever…if it did, we’d all be big lazy blobs, too tired to get off the beach, and striking a close similarity to KFC “extra crispy”. Think of the end of the summer in a favorable way. Don’t think of dark dreary days… think of crisp nights and fireplaces. Don’t sob when you put away your bikini… think of those knee high alligator boots you’ve been dying to wear. Instead of families gathering around the beach umbrella, think of families gathering around the Thanksgiving table. Think of Christmas!!! Think of New Year’s!!! Think of next Memorial Day Weekend!!! (I already have the days counted too!) Okay, maybe my advice isn’t really helpful, but I know one thing~ To reinforce a good attitude, ‘working out’ does wonders! Getting back into an exercise regime during the winter is probably the most uplifting thing you can do! I find that intertwining cardio and weights makes your workouts more productive and makes your results more efficient. My trainer and owner of 10th Street Gym, Ron Oswald told me “Mia you can do all the cardio you want, but if you don’t do weights, you’ll never see the results you want!” Well he was right, and I couldn’t argue with him! It’s so true because just doing cardio burns calories and yes it will make you lose weight... but if you add weights to your workout, you’ll burn the fat you want to lose! So after the bikinis are packed away, the sweatpants are unpacked, and the cold weather rolls in…. start working towards your next summer goals! Keep your goals year round and always think that’s nothing is IMPOSSIBLE! Life isn’t about just waiting around for things coming to you, you have the ability to take the bull by the horns and give it everything you’ve got! So when you’re sitting on your couch this winter, just remember that we all have it in us to get our engines running, and kicking it up a notch or two. I know I do, and that’s why 10th Street Gym is my home away from home.
TIRED OF THE STANDARD INSTALL? CUSTOM TILE & FLOORING CO. All Work Fully Guaranteed! Serving South Jersey & the Philadelphia Area
(609) 729-7156 i a (215) 852-3307 q r WE ACCEPT
www.michaelstileandfloor.com
TUB/SHOWER MAKEOVER MADE EASY! PRICE INCLUDES: Complete for Just $2995 Complete Demo Choice of 3 Pre-Selected Tiles New Shower Fixtures for your Stand-up Shower Glass Doors
BUY 1 SQ. FT. (INSTALLED) GET 1 SQ. FT. FREE NJ STATE LIC. (MINIMUM 50 SQ. FT.) # 13VHO4780000
the SUN by-the-Sea
54
“You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.”
Coloring the beach around you!
~John Wooden
Happy 90th Birthday Family & Friends gathered at the Wildwood American Legion to honor a very special man
MR. MICKEY ROACH
JIM STANFIELD PAINTING CONTRACTOR
The Roach Siblings~ Jean, Ed, Mickey & Norm. When Harrison William Roach, Jr. was born May 21, 1921, there was a popular song called “Beautiful Mickey”, thus his parents gave him the nickname Mickey.
Office 886-7868 Cell 408-3602 Call for your FREE Estimate! Mickey with his 3 sons, (L to R) Dale, Harrison (Butch), and Dave
4 Generations of the Roach family: Crystal, Baby Chase, Dave & Mickey Ken, Jim, Shane, Sean, Brian
• 28 Years Experience • Attention to Detail • Reliable & Dependable Service • Committed to 100% Customer Satisfaction
4 Generations of Bradshaws: Crystal, Chase, Lori & Evelyn
• Clean, Quality Workmanship • No Job Too Big or Too Small • Referrals upon Request • Interior - Exterior
“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” ~1 CORINTHIANS 10:31
Neil & Denni Young
Richard & Lori Roach
the SUN by-the-Sea
55
“You can learn many things from children. How much patience you have, for instance.”
~Franklin P. Jones
BY STEVE MURRAY
The Fun Shop as it was in the 1970’s Labor Day was always the last day of my childhood summers at the shore, so a couple of weeks before this, I made an accounting of my wealth. By that time, there wasn’t too much money left over from my allowance, chore work for my grandfather and refunds for returnable soda bottles collected from gutters, alleys and under the boardwalk. I always used the last of these savings for my annual pilgrimage to my favorite place - the boardwalk Fun Shop. The store’s specialties were gags, tricks and prank jokes that you couldn’t get anywhere else. Stupid stuff to many folks - but not to an 8 year old kid. Now I wasn’t bad, but I guess I was mischievous, especially since my dad was up in the city most of the summer. Candid Camera was one of my favorite TV shows so this was kind of my way of being Allen Funt (minus the camera). My summers were spent at my grandparent’s rental properties which included 3 rooming houses on the same block. Lots of kids (and some adults) to play a trick or two on. I knew I had to use these jokes while I was still at the shore and not back home. It was easier to get away with in the summer because it’s a more fun and forgiving time of the year. It was also better to do it at the end and not the beginning of summer. Everyone would be leaving shortly and wouldn’t see me again until next year. My plan was to buy as many of my favorite jokes as I could. It was always hard to pick and choose, I liked them all. I also had to be patient and spread these things around to different victims so no one would catch on. Walking in the house with a bloody nail through the finger (with a phony look of pain on my face) freaked out my mom - she did laugh it off afterwards though. I would walk nonchalantly across a porch full of tenants with an ‘arrow through the head’ gag. Everyone pretended nothing was unusual then one of the men would say, real serious, “Hey Steve, you have an arrow in your head “. No fun in that. The ‘sticking nickel’ was another favorite. This was a real nickel with a nail on one side. I would go up on the boardwalk and nail it down in an obvious area. I would sit on a bench with a friend and wait. Some walked right over it without seeing it and others would try to pick it up without any luck. We would try hard to hide our laughing. Once a man pried it up with a pocket knife and put it in his pocket. My friend started to yell “that’s our nickel” but I put my hand over his mouth. One person I didn’t have the heart to ever play a trick on was my grandmother, but I did put a set of
chattering teeth on her nightstand once. She howled. A harmless joke everyone enjoyed, and one I wouldn’t get in trouble for, was the ‘whoopee cushion.’ I usually reserved this for when the whole family got together - usually an uncle would be the first victim to sit down and make that embarrassing sound. After that, all the adults would take turns pulling the prank on each other. ‘Chinese handcuffs’ weren’t actually a trick - they were more of a challenge. You get another kid to volunteer to put his index fingers into opposite ends of the tube and then try to pull them out. The harder they tried the more impossible it got. If they would start to panic and cry I would try to help which only made things worse. Once the ‘disappearing ink’ I spilled ‘accidentally’ on an older teenage girl didn’t disappear. ‘Black mouth chewing gum’ always worked. You asked another kid if he wanted a stick of gum, then after chewing for a while their mouth and teeth would get blacker by the minute. Then you would tell them “go look in the mirror”. Nobody ever laughed this one off. I wonder how much of this kind of stuff they sold to kids was toxic? The ‘fly in the ice cube’ was an acrylic clear cube with a fly imbedded in it. You would put this in a glass of something along with some ice cubes and offer it to a friend. As an adult I now wonder how many people in those days were sent to the emergency room because of this. ‘Rubber vomit’ was a big favorite, even with my dad, a no nonsense Phila. police detective. Mine disappeared for a while, just after the summer ended. My mom eventually found out that my dad was having a ball putting it in all the water fountains at Police head quarters. I wondered if he pulled this on the Commissioner (Frank Rizzo). The worst of all these pranks (and I know now the most dangerous) was the cigarette loads. My grand father was a heavy set man reminiscent of Archie Bunker in many ways, (without the bigot mouth) He had very little patience with a young kid bothering his tenants. He was, however, stuck with me each summer. Once I got one of his El Producto cigars out and skillfully, like 007 (I thought) put in a load (or 2) in the end. He came into the living room, sat in his huge easy chair, and lit one up. I would sit in another room, out of sight, and wait for the big bang. As soon as I heard the explosion, and then the cuss words that followed, I flew out of the house for the rest of the day. You are probably saying to yourself “wonder why someone didn’t kill that kid!” I wonder too. Other good stuff from the Fun Shop included the hand buzzer, squirting mustard bottle, xray glasses, stink bomb, goofy buck teeth, dirty face soap, plastic dog doo, loaded dice, invisible dog leash, itching powder, snake in the peanut brittle can, rubber spiders, retracting knife, hot pepper gum, crazy eye glasses, bald head cap and many, many more. Great fun for some “twisted” kids and adults.
Coastline Construction has no other care, except to always make the customer HAPPY!
Rick Davis builds the coastline one house at a time. From installing a door, to building a large condominium complex*. . . from start to finish. . . from drawing up plans for your dream home, to building it. . . Rick Davis wants you to know. . . there’s no job too big or too small for Coastline Construction. *Coastline Construction is responsible for much of the finishing details on the 60-unit beachfront condominium complex at the Pointe at Moore’s Inlet.
• Incorporated since 1993 • Fully licensed and insured NJ13VH04275700 • Free Estimates • Free Plans & Drawings • Large local customer reference base • Senior Citizen Discounts SERVING ALL OF CAPE MAY COUNTY • Born & Raised in the Wildwoods Rick Davis - WCHS ‘74 Rick is also on the following committees• Volunteer North Wildwood Fire Co., 20 yrs. • President Wildwood Rotary • Volunteer Five Mile Beach Firemen’s Assoc.
Times are Tough! Building shouldn’t be rough! Ask us about local discounts.
Look for our New Office at 2500 New Jersey Ave., North Wildwood
the SUN by-the-Sea
56
No life can be barren which hears the whisper of the wind in the branches, or the voice of the sea . . .
Welcome Firefighters! We will never forget!
5 MILES
FIREHOUSE TAVERN
of Smiles!
Park Blvd. at Pine Ave. Wildwood
Know that a smile will rally many to thy cause, while a frown would drive all away.
609-729-9487 “We’re just a Little Bar on a Big Island” • Hot & Cold Sandwiches • Package Goods • Ice Cold Beer
Angelique Richardson loves Sam’s Pizza, but she loves Tony Spera’s Harley more!
Try Our Homemade Pork & Spinach Sandwich!
Michael’s
Al Alven & Rob Ascough at Book Signing
FABRICARE Since 1987 Full-Service Quality Dry Cleaning Pick-Up & Delivery Service Same Day Service • Alterations • Repairs 3209 NEW JERSEY AVE. WILDWOOD 609-522-6291 609-522-4499 Mon-Fri 7am - 5:30pm Sat 7am - 3pm
Michael Cummiskey, owner
DLJ CornerStone Construction 609-408-0602 h Ep
. 2:
Local authors team up on new book about New Jersey amusement pier, History of Hunt’s Pier Told Through Photographs. The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Hunt’s Pier from local authors Rob Ascough and Al Alven. Ralph Grassi and Richard W. Munch helped provide the forward and introduction. The book boasts more than 200 vintage photographs and memories of days gone by. Book Signings were held at the Wildwood Historic Museum and Lime Ricky. The book is available online as well as local spots. Be sure to check out www.Wildwood365.com as well as www.Funchase.com!
Heading to the beach! Bill & Vicky Bolle with 2 out of 6 of their children, Tommy on left and Ivy on right.
20
Let Us Build Your Dreams
Jerry Rosenberg Licensed and Insured #13VH05755000
cornerstoneconstructionllc@live.com
Dave & Owen Bannon selling hot dogs by the sea
~ ‘Jaguar Joyce’ ~
the SUN by-the-Sea
57
. . . as it breaks upon the shore; and no soul can lack happiness looking up to the midnight stars.” ~William Winter
The Sailors: WILDWOOD MEMORIES BY BARRY HOFFMAN
O
ne evening, I was at the counter of a restaurant on a dinner break and I found myself sitting next to the patriarch of the Hunt family, whom I only knew as “Old Man Hunt”. I think he was in his nineties at the time. While we were eating, he told me the following story: Toward the end of World War II, the black-out restrictions were eased and they were able to re-open Hunts Pier at night. At the far end of the pier was a “whip” kind of ride and part of it swung people out past the back edge of the pier over the ocean, some two or three stories below. Two sailors who were on some kind of pass or leave decided to ride this “whip”. As the car they were riding in was swinging out over the ocean, it somehow snapped off of the ride structure and they were flung out into the deep, pitch dark water. People ran to the back railing, looking for the sailors, but there was no sign of them. The fire department came to the beach be-
low the pier and scanned the ocean with their “five mile” lights. The beach patrol put out boats with searchlights but all of the efforts seemed to be of no avail. Mr. Hunt said that he was on the beach with the firemen hoping against hope that the sailors could be found. He looked up at the crowds lining the pier watching the rescue effort and the now stationary whip ride with its missing car silhouetted in the misty lights. He thought about how something like this could have ever happened: two servicemen, having a little time for fun, flung into the ocean on a ride that he owned and was responsible for maintaining. He felt devastated. Then he heard a commotion coming toward him. It was a group of firemen and in the midst of them were the two sailors. Their soaked uniforms were ripped up and covered with sand and seaweed. The firemen brought them up to Mr. Hunt and said to them, “This is Mr. Hunt, he owns the amusement pier”. The sailors were laughing and smiling. One of them took Mr. Hunt’s hand and said, “Boy, what a ride!!!” Mr. Hunt, in the midst of his shock noticed the distinct smell of alcohol, as the sailors had been pretty drunk when they had gone on the whip. Mr. Hunt asked them if there was anything he could do. The sailors kind of hemmed and hawed and then Mr. Hunt said, “How would you fellows like special passes to ride all of the rides for free?” The sailors were so happy that they hugged him. To this day, I still try to picture those sailors flying out into the ocean because of a broken amusement ride and then later saying, “Boy, what a ride” and being so drunk they thought it was supposed to happen.
BARRY HOFFMAN WAS ON THE 1960S MID-TOWN UNIT ON THE WILDWOOD POLICE DEPT. BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE STORY BY AL LOVE ON PAGE 68 IN THIS ISSUE!
INTERESTED IN ANTIQUE POSTCARDS? ~ OVER 5,000 WILDWOOD POSTCARDS~
South Jersey Postcards
BOUGHT and SOLD
N.J. A VENUE ( BETWEEN F ERN & P ALM ) W ILDWOOD C REST
Woody G’s Postcards (609) 465-0273 Specializing in Cape May County Towns • Also have 8x10 Photos
58
the SUN by-the-Sea
“History is a symphony of echoes heard and unheard. It is a poem with events as verses.”
~Charles Angoff
MOORE’S INLET 1912-2005 ~A Series of old Wildwood Bar Stories~ MOORE THAN JUST A BARTENDER By Josh Kinney An advertisement for Bud and Doris Moore’s Inlet Club
Joe Bilbee and Bobby Hall
Moore’s in the 1940s
Al Trottnow wearing his Harley Cap
Lounging on the deck just outside his home overlooking the Hereford Inlet, Al Trottnow enjoys the peace of the ocean, while people walk by on the seawall for it. Every so often someone will wave over. “Hi Al, how are you?” they will say in passing. Al’s wife Mary Lou will turn to him and ask, “Well who was that?” Al scratches the side of his Harley Davidson cap, “I’m not sure,” he replies, “but I know his wife likes gin and tonic.” For over 20 years Al Trottnow bartended at the legendary Moore’s. Taking up two thirds of the block in the Anglesea section of North Wildwood, rich in history, was Moore’s Inlet Hotel Bar and Café. It was built by Johnny Moore in 1912 and was an integral part of the bustling fishing village and wharf on Hereford Inlet, which included Mace’s Pier and Olsen’s Boatyard. According to the Polk Directory of 1924, Robert and Lavinia Moore are listed there, and ownership was passed to Johnny’s brother, Bob. According to other Polk information in the 192829 edition, a liquor license was granted to the bar. Then it seems by 1946 Bud (Robert, Jr.) became a partner, and it became Bud and Doris Moore’s Inlet Club and was popular for entertainment such as Bonnie & Clyde, Tony Mascara and Charlie Gracie, though it’s the later part of the history that became part of Al Trottnow’s story. Mike Guadagno purchased from Bud in 1976 with a partner Joe Carideo. Joe Bilbee later partnered
Moore’s owners, Mike Guadagno & Joe Bilbee with Al Trottnow in the fall of 2005, preparing for the demolition
Mike Guadagno with Doris Moore
with Mike in 1992, and it was Mike & Joe Bilbee who became best of friends up until the end. Before he worked at Moore’s, in the late 1960’s Al bartended at Joe Ellis’ Gourmet Restaurant on Walnut Avenue. The restaurant then became the D’Continental, which is now Echos. (a future story) One winter, Al worked at the infamous doo-wop Thunderbird Inn on Surf Ave. between 24th & 25th. In the summer of 1983 Chip Kaisinger who worked with Al behind the bar, helped get him his job at Moore’s. Al took great pride in his work and enjoyed getting to know the same customers who would frequent Moore’s every week. He worked alongside other popular bartenders such as Sticks, Boob, Paul Haggerty and the wellknown Dave Snyder as Moore’s lovable, yet formidable bouncer. The Harley Davidson bike riders who frequented Moore’s twice a season developed a great deal of respect for Al. He was a familiar face who purposely went out of his way to serve them and get to know them. With a great nostalgic enthusiasm Al said that Moore’s was the “greatest spot in the world to work,” describing the staff and the customers as one big family, living in a great era. “You’d have to kill someone to get fired from there,” said Mary Lou. Moore’s was
a lazy place to hang out on a late summer afternoon. The people were fun to be around and great tippers. Here, it wasn’t uncommon for customers to become close friends. The young people would crowd the deck until the early morning hours, dancing and overlooking the inlet. Al didn’t like being forced into retirement, but in 2005 he had no choice. That summer, to the dismay of many loyal customers, Mike Guadagno & Joe Bilbee announced ‘last call’ would be October 1st. They were selling the property to make way for condos that had been popping up all over the island then. “It was all good times,” Al said. Having loved his work, Al believes that if Moore’s were still around, he would still be working. “I miss the people,” he said, “the ones I worked with and the customers.” Sadly, Mike passed away suddenly in the summer of 2010, shortly after his retirement. Joe, however, still resides in the area. One day after the Harley Davidson crew rolled out for the season, they placed one of their hats on Al’s head and told him not to take it off until he got home. Inside was a generous birthday gift, because he wasn’t just their bartender, he was one of their genuine friends.
Boob
Dave Snyder
Paul Haggerty
Sticks
Crowd gathered in front of Moore’s in the 1940s Old photos courtesy of the Wildwood Museum
the SUN by-the-Sea
~From the YV show My So-Called Life
“Sometimes someone says something really small, and it just fits right into this empty place in your heart.�
ic f i c a P Dinners Grill
Wildwood' s New " 9 / "
starting at 5pm watercolor by Dorothy McMonagle Kulisek Š 2011
closed Tuesdays
.BT !JBOF@>K #RFPFKB
Traditional dishes prepared in innovative ways 0>@FCF@ !SB 7FIATLLA .BT *BOPBV
MAJOR CREDIT
CARDS ACCEPTED
*Free Parking Available
TTT M>@FCF@DOFIITFIATLLA @LJ
Brought to you by award-winning Chef John Schatz and Bob Dimitrov of Union Park in Cape May
Wildwood High School Class of ’76 35th Reunion Our Special Guests “The Class of ’75" October 1st, 2011 Bolero Resort, Time: 6-10PM Cost is $35 per peson. Pre-Reunion get together, Friday Sept 30th, Anglesea Pub from 7pm...til?? Please RSVP by September 9, 2011 Email Steve Jett at sjett80@gmail.com
If anyone has emails, home addresses etc. for any missing classmates, please send them to Steve ASAP. CHECK US OUT on Face book “WHS Class of 76� We look forward to bringing back the memories & making some new ones!
Wildwood High 50 Plus 28th Reunion October 2, 2011 Wildwood Convention Hall “Happy Hour� hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar 5PM to 6PM. Full-course dinner at 6:30PM. Cost is $40 per person. Music by Dwight Rose & Memory Lane Music 7PM to 10PM. The only requirement is that you were a student with the Class of 1961 or earlier.
Donations are being accepted for the 50 Plus Scholarship Fund towards $500 scholarships for two Wildwood High School students. For further information call: Christina Taglialatela (609) 522-8314.
Beef & Beer for LILY KOLIMAGA October 1, 2011 5PM TO 10PM at the Moose Lodge Spruce Ave., North Wildwood Donation: $20 For more information call: Fran McAvoy (609) 624-2443 Lainey from the Shampoo Bar (609) 522-8585
“Lily Bugs� 2 year-old Lily Kolimaga
This fundraiser is dedicated to 2 year old Lily who has been diagnosed with Acute Monocytoid Leukemia (AML). She has received 2 chemo treatments so far. On Sept. 8th she will receive a bone marrow transplant from her 4 year-old sister. Please keep her and her family in your prayers.
5 E 1 OF LE SLAW CHOOSH CO ES KLES
IC P SANDWU IPS RPRISE & CH IC
S
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
99 $ 5 for 5.
PLUS
LOSING 11:30-C -FRI MON
Open Sun-Weds 7a - 2p Thurs-Sat 7a - 9p
a iCORNER OF ANDREW & PACIFIC AVES.
BREAKFA S SPECIAL T
$2.22
7-10AM MON-FRI
$4.50 10AM
AFTER
WILDWOOD 522-5006
Times got you broke? Wardrobe looking so Last Year?
New merchandise arriving daily!
Dress it up for less! Cheap Charlie’s is easy on your pocket! Shopping on the corner of Taylor & Pacific Ave. was never so much fun! WILDWOOD 523-1166
TOMMY ROWAN the HANDYMAN Over 30 years of Carpentry Experience No job too small: caulking, wood rot repair, weatherstripping, trim work, drywall repair, minor painting, hanging doors, installing vinyl railings, building decks and so much more.
Servicing the Wildwoods CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
215.913.7902
the SUN by-the-Sea
60
“Never judge a book by its movie.”
Let’s Stroll down Memory Lane. . . ○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
~J.W. Eagan
Meg the Movie Buff Goes to Hollywood 2011 FALL MOVIE GUIDE by Meg Corcoran
Postcard looking south over Wildwood. Building on left foreground is the original Beecher Kay realty in the early 1900s
Guess Who this is with Miss New Jersey?
from the collection of Woody G. (see his ad on page 57)
Hint: His office is 102 years old, one of the oldest on the island. Proof in photo above right.
Photo taken by Jacob A. Eberly, Jr. of a Dog Parade in Wildwood in 1916. Read more about this on page 64!
4 yr. old Al Love in 1943 in front of his summer home on 300 W. block of Glenwood Ave.,and his 4 yr. old grandson below standing in the same spot in Summer of 2011
The 50th Queen Oceania & her Court in 1959: (L-R) Elise Christine Haws, Marie DiSilvestro, Heather Hornstine, Eileen Schroll & Sheila Vivian Kloo. Sent in by Barbara D. Flacco
North Wildwood Firemen in front of the 15th St. station, circa 1961 (L to R) Gordon Mathis, Andrew Taylor, Raymond Gibbs Jr., James McMillan; Asst. Chief, Giles Craven; Chief, George Curvan, Harold Ford, Edward Cox. See story by Scott Jett on P. 50
While on a Drive enjoying a beautiful fall day, our Wanderlust cast of characters is feeling Footloose, trouble free, and shore ready. Johnny English (feels) Reborn on our seaside grounds, with nothing but the sand and surf occupying his secret service thoughts. Clearly there’s nothing hushhush about the Dolphin Tale, being told beneath a cooler, orange-tinted sky, captivating travelers far and wide. With everyone from the beach side to the big screen ready to jump into multi-colored leaves, as opposed to chilly waves; is there a more colorful, cozier time to snuggle up for the season of plenty by the sea? Before snuggling up at the nearest, coziest movie theater, please check your local listings for release date changes... On a Drive (September 16th) through Hollywood, a stuntman (Ryan Gosling) moonlighting as the getaway driver for an underground criminal botches a job and goes on the run with his neighbor (Carey Mulligan) and her child traveling the sandy trail to the Annual Boardwalk Classic Car Auction. I Don’t Know How She Does It (opens September 16th) is often said about finance executive, wife, and mother Kate (Sarah Jessica Parker) who must forgo familyfriendly Trunk or Treat for Halloween as the family breadwinner. Also stars Greg Kinnear. Top British Secret Service agent Johnny English (Rowan Atkinson) is Reborn (opens September 16th) on a Roar to the Shore Motorcycle Rally preceding a mission to save the Chinese ruler from a group of international assassins. Borrowing The Moneyball (opens September 23rd) from the nearest miniature golf course, Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) struggles to put together a low-budget baseball team using a computer-generated study to determine his players. Following an Adventurer Deep Sea Fishing day, a young boy gets the ultimate adventure when he befriends a dolphin that’s lost a tail in a crab trap, inspiring the Dolphin Tale (opens September 23rd). Everyone is soon working together to construct a prosthetic attachment for the dolphin, ultimately encouraging those with special
needs. Starring Morgan Freeman and Ashley Judd. Choosing to ignore The Ides of March (opens October 7th), an idealistic staff member (Ryan Gosling) of a governor/ presidential hopeful (George Clooney, who also directed) wishes he’d chosen to spend his quality time at the Irish Fall Festival after being exposed to the dirty side of politics. Wanderlust (opens October 7th) strikes a Manhattan couple (Jennifer Aniston, Paul Rudd) who move to a commune following a peaceful Concert Under the Stars and embrace their newfound hippie nature. Feeling shaken but Footloose (opens October 14th) following a trip to Morey’s Fears “Terror on the Boardwalk” Halloween Event, a rebellious city kid (Kenny Wormald) moves to a small town where music and dancing (and terror) are forbidden. Also stars Dennis Quaid and Julianne Hough. It’s The Big Year (opens October 14th) for three big-time bird watchers (Steve Martin, Owen Wilson, and Jack Black) who find time for the Mummer’s Stringband performance before competing in a prominent yearly event to spot the rarest bird in North America. The Rum Diary (opens October 28th) is filled with an American journalist’s (Johnny Depp) escapades as a freelance newspaper reporter in 1950’s Puerto Rico as he adjusts to island culture alongside the expatriots residing there while feeling right at home at the Fabulous 50’s Celebration. Following a relaxing day of sand, surf, and storytelling, our big screen cast is ready for The Big Year, a bountiful time of longer nights and larger-than-life movies. The Rum Diary overflows with tips on the best way to spend this harvest season. The Ides of March are nowhere to be found on our blissful island, where soft sea breezes reign and scattering seagulls cast the only shadow. With The Moneyball bouncing toward the next starlet, who dramatically declares time spent at the shore is priceless, our cast marvels, I Don’t Know How She Does It, fitting in beach, boardwalk, and a bounty of “something for everyone” Wildwood events during another fun and fabulous seaside season!
the SUN by-the-Sea
61
“Don’t forget to turn your clock back. I’m going to turn mine back to when I was 20!” ~Maxine
November 6th, 2011 Daylight Savings Time ends. Fall Back one hour!
"When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight." -Kahil Gibran
Vic & Roxane would like to thank the community for their love & support during their son’s valiant battle with cancer.
ALGIE’S PLACE BICYCLES
SINCE 1979
sales ★ parts ★ accessories ★ clothing ★ service ★ repairs
summer music at centennial park
INDIAN SUMMER HOURS BEGIN SOON call. stop by. go online... for latest info. open all year.
(609)
729-5669
Personal Service by Vic,Our Expert & Owner
6207 New Jersey Ave. ★ Wildwood Crest ★www.algiesplace.com a i q
MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
Classic Car Auction & 18th Annual Boardwalk Classic Car Show Sept. 22-25
Brian Cuniff and Bobby Mulholland
Fabulous 50s Weekend Classic Car Show Oct. 14-16 Al Love, Coleen & HarrtyDiSilvestro
Maria Quercetti, Kreni DiAntonio, & expecvtant mother, Danielle Crilley
Jerry Durante & Carol deBellis
Pat & Rita Canning
JUNKE AND TREASURES
Thrift & Gift Shop Old, New Unique Gifts & Home Decor. . . a treasure for everyone!
$ale Music by-the-sea The Borough of Wildwood Crest showcased its beautifully constructed entertainment pavilion at Centennial Park for the second summer as it hosted free concerts all summer long. In photo above, Bandstand Band plays to a large crowd at Centennial Park on a late August evening. Free concerts were a huge hit at Centennial Park each Wednesday and Saturday evening throughout the summer.
Handpainted furniture & unique items!
4501 Pacific Ave. BETWEEN BURK & DAVIS AVES.
Second time Clothing
$1.00
WILDWOOD 609-522-0060
the SUN by-the-Sea
62
“Each time history repeats itself, the price goes up.”
“SHOES” By Marilyn Guidetti
Summertime is here again, time to put away boots and pumps and clogs, time to go barefoot. Well not at this house. The family, which consists of many girls, leaves their heavy, dark shoes back north and brings their many pairs of summer shoes here. That is normal, but when using the word many I mean MANY. I cannot believe that for the amount of time we all spend on the beach barefoot there are so many shoes around. A few years ago, when we renovated our house and put in new hard wood floors, everyone was asked to be sure not to bring sand into the house on their shoes. I put baskets by the doors for outdoor shoes and also bought everyone a pair of terry flip flops to wear in the house. The idea lasted only a short time so more baskets were
added. I put baskets on the stair landings, in the laundry/sand room and in the foyer. Everyone gets the idea now and they take off their shoes. But, the grandchildren are getting older and are very fashion conscious so the amount of shoes multiplied. They each have multiple pairs of flip flops and sandals and wedges and sneakers, etc. The grownups also have running shoes, street shoes, many dress shoes, old comfy shoes, heels, and flats (I also have my gardening clogs). They all finally got the idea of not bringing sand into the house so every shoe winds up in the baskets. When I say in the baskets, I mean in the vicinity of the baskets. Now at each point there is an overflowing basket with many pairs of assorted footware surrounding it. At the beginning of summer season everyone is told to weed out the shoes and get rid of any pair that does not fit or for some reason will not be worn anymore. That will get rid of a few pairs left from the season before, but soon there will be other styles and sizes to replace them. I complain about the clutter, but deep down I feel good knowing that they all feel at home in this “home away from home”. Like kicking off your shoes and relaxing, but instead of in front of a fireplace its in front of a fire pit. They did follow rules and did not track sand on the floors.
BOARDWALK As Seen on PBS 2003 longshore films
greetings from
Wildwood -by -the -sea
Written by Bob Ingram and Joseph Van Blunk Narrated by Bob Ingram Produced by Bob Ingram, Joseph Van Blunk & Gustave Rosanio and Directed by Joseph Van Blunk and Gustave Rosanio Bob Ingram is a contributing editor for
the SUN
pick up your copy at: 3907 Pacific Avenue • Wildwood, NJ • 523-0277 VIDEO
$25
.00
DVD
.00
$30
includes shipping & handling
order form
DVD VIDEO
Name _____________________________________
to: Bob Ingram
Address ___________________________________
706 North Wildwood Blvd. Lot 29 Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
City, State, Zip _____________________________
or call to order:
609.465.9968
True Love, Wildwood Style Dave & Joan Husband’s 25TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Suitcase Motel, N. Wildwood, 1994 Our family is probably not the first to pose sitting in a suitcase outside the Suitcase Motel. But, we may be the proudest! When we planned to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary in 1994, we decided to try to make the occasion special. We wanted to try to go back to the year, 1969, as best as we could. We lived in Arlington Virginia for 30 years after leaving the Philadelphia area. But we still brought the family to the Wildwoods for summer vacations all those years. The Wildwoods were in our hearts. T h e Wildwoods, then, were our instinctive choice for this 25th anniversary celebration. And the Suitcase Motel was our top choice. Time seemed to have stood still at the Suitcase. We wanted to go back to that time for our anniversary weekend. It was perfect. The pool, the rooms, the bathrooms, all 1969 era. We had a costume party that weekend where all the guests dressed in 1969 getup. We had guests dressed as hippies, a love child, Janice Joplin, ZZ Top, assorted Woodstock attendees and Neil Armstrong walking on the moon. We ate breakfast at the Vegas Diner, another classic establishment and with great timeless meals. And, of course, we walked the Boardwalk and strolled on the beach. These locations by the sea brought back wonderful memories from 1969. The Wildwoods have managed to keep the toxic forces of progress at bay. There are many signs of the Wildwoods’ good progress today. But, it still keeps its mid-century feel. When it came time to retire in the year 2000. The Wildwoods were our natural choice. Now that we are locals, we are still happy with the choice today. We get to live at the shore continuing to enjoy the memories and making new ones along the way.
THE WILDWOOD HISTORICAL SOCIETY George F. Boyer Museum
or send check or m.o.
~Anon.
Phone _____________________________________ Quantity ________ Total ___________
the SUN by-the-Sea
63
“We are the products of editing, rather than authorship.” Providing EYE CARE at COURT HOUSE for over 20 years
Free Estimates
~George Wald, "The Origin of Optical Activity
Licensed & Insured
Interior & Exterior
w!
Call No
DR. CARDILLO has moved to 5 S. Main Street Cape May Court House, NJ Dr. Cardillo’s new office is easy to find. It is located between The Bellevue Tavern and The Press
TIM WADE (609) 846-1211
• Eye Exams • Eyeglasses • Contact Lenses • Treatment of Eye Diseases • Medicare Certified Office
DR. DENNIS A. CARDILLO Optometric Physician
Koehler Floor Covering ContractoR For All Your Flooring Needs!
SPECIALIZING IN CARPET - VINYL LAMINATE - TILE - HARDWOOD FLOORS
NJ Lic #OA 0404701 CERT #OM 58500
Finest Quality Installations! All of Dr. Cardillo’s patient’s records have been transferred to this office.
Call ED KOEHLER for a Free Estimate Today! 609-729-2703 609-780-0253
Phone: 609.536.2667 Fax: 609.536.2793 Website: www.drdenniscardillo.com eMail: vision@drdenniscardillo.com
NJ State Licensed & Insured
Ask Us About Gift Cards & Coupon books. They make great gifts! Pay for 9, Get 10
Artwork by Gar 609-391-9116
The Area’s Only Full Service Car Wash & Detail Center 901 Rt. 9 South & W. 3rd Ave. Behind Motor Vehicle Inspection Station
Cape May Court House, NJ 609-463-9400
$
1
.00 Off With this Coupon.
Cannot combine with any other offer.
Expires Oct 31, 2011
Hours: Monday through Saturday 8:30am to 5:30pm Sun 9:00am to 3:00pm
Deluxe or V.I.P. Wash
$
2
.00 Off
Executive or With this Coupon. Royal Wash Cannot combine with any other offer. Expires Oct 31, 2011
64
the SUN by-the-Sea
“There is an eternal landscape, a geography of the soul; we search for its outlines all our lives.”
Notes from the Wildwood Historical Society
A Blast From the Past! PHOTOS COURTESY OF WILDWOOD HISTORIC SOCIETY
located at 3907 Pacific Ave. in Wildwood. 609-523-0277
Would you believe the museum may have at least two resident spirits on the premises? One night in June, Clay Borneman, founder of Cumberland County Paranormal, along with his staff conducted a scientific experiment into whether or not we did share the building, which was a former funeral home, with the “unworldly.” After setting up seven cameras throughout the museum, over 500 feet of connecting wire, audio and other high-tech equipment, he and his staff went to work in search of evidence that could or could not support the theory. After several interesting hours of viewing, listening, reviewing video and audio data, I can say there was NO evidence of any apparitions. HOWEVER, the audio equipment recorded unusual sounds that were not audible to the human ear, and were definitely two different kinds of sounds that might suggest two different sexes. These sounds emanated from what was a former viewing room, and in what I refer to as the laboratory, where they did the embalming. At this point, you can draw your own conclusions. As for my staff and me, we hold the position that we will continue to go about museum business and continue to work in perfect harmony with “whomever”????? I can’t believe the summer has gone by so fast. Don’t know if it was the excessive hot weather and folks were looking for a cool indoor place to hang out, but the museum enjoyed a very busy summer. Phyllis Bethel, Mona Pluck, and John Roat have worked diligently to reorganize and clean out files and photos that have been languishing for years. We also are trying to upgrade our research facilities in that we are in the process of having all of our newspapers that are on microfilm put on a DVD. We have almost 300 reels and the project will probably cost almost $2000. Special donations for this project will be deeply appreciated.
~Josephine Hart
FALL HOURS 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM Every Day except Sundays and National Holidays
As the staff unearthed some old photos, I came across a photo of the fire that took the Hurricane Club in 1964. If anyone remembers the Ruthlynn Hotel also on Pacific Avenue, it was still standing and pictured in the photo, until it, too, gave way to fire in 1981. We also have photos given to us by a gentleman by the name of Osman M. Corson from Cape May Court House. He forwarded a collection of old photos taken by his father-in-law, Jacob A. Eberly, Jr. who summered and worked here between 1912 and 1917. As a teenager, he was an amateur photographer employed by one of the boardwalk photo shops, and snapped quite a few pictures. One of them was of Fun Chase Pier in 1912, a firemen’s parade in 1917, and did you know that Wildwood had a Dog Parade in 1916? In July, the museum hosted a book signing and open house. On board were authors Rob Ascough and Al Alven signing their new book “Images of America, Hunt’s Pier.” The book celebrates the history of Wildwood’s famed “Oceanic Wonderland” with 128 pages of vintage photographs and memories. Also on hand was Anita Hirsch to sign her latest book “Wildwod By-the-Sea: Nostalgia and Recipes.” We have both books available for sale in our gift shop. They make great gifts for anyone who has every visited our island. To top off the day, we had a continuous screening of Diane Pooler and Scott Hand’s video “The Hunt’s Legacy.” That, too, will also be available for purchase very soon. It is an in-depth view of Hunt’s Pier. In closing, think about this: Bumper sticker of the year - ‘If you can read this, thank a teacher and, since it’s in English, thank a soldier”
Anne Vinci,
Pam Iacono WHS 1983
Christine Sicilia WCHS 1971
Mike Bernstein WHS 1976
Terria Davolos WHS 1973
Kathryn Malinowski WCHS 1971
Rosemary Six WCHS 1971
Anthony Calogero WCHS 1964
Cherronne Craven Jett WHS 1954
Edwin Koehler WHS 1960
Marie Piro WHS 1961
Dorothy Colangelo Stitt WHS 1961
Courtesy of Wildwood Historical Society
PRESIDENT OF WILDWOOD HISTORICAL SOCIETY, INC.
Fire at the Hurricane Club in 1964. Hurricane was located at 3800 Pacific Ave. (On the SW corner of Garfield & Pacific Aves.) The Ruthlynn Hotel is the building on the right which burnt down in 1981.
Tom Bradshaw WHS 1960
If you would like your Wildwood High or Wildwood Catholic High School yearbook photo featured in The Sun, please send us an email with your name, graduation year, & maiden name for girls. Include in Subject line: “Yearbook Photos” email: sun-by-the-sea@verizon.net
the SUN by-the-Sea
65
“All dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” ~Walt Disney
dear
AUTUMN: The Second Season
A SHOOBIE TURNED LOCAL
BY ALISON HELLER
BY LORI ALTMAN Living here was just a dream a year ago. Now I wake up every morning in my very own apartment in North Wildwood with a huge smile on my face. I live at the beach! When I’m not sleeping or working my 40 hours a week, you can find me outside relaxing on the beach, floating down the lazy river, screaming on the Atmosfear, or just walking the boards taking in the sights and sounds. I am truly blessed to live in my favorite place on earth. I am living proof for all of those who think their dreams will never come true. My dream has become the ultimate reality!
Lori makes a trip to BRITTON’S BAKERY in Wildwood Crest for coffee and a donut, before heading offshore to work. She is pictured with Bridget Butler.
Warm funnel cakes taste a little different in the crisp Autumn air and if you’ve never strolled the boards with a hot apple cider in hand, I highly recommend it! As the heat waves of summer ebb under the changing leaves, a “second season” begins in the Wildwoods. At Morey’s Piers, summer never really ends; it just hibernates while we dream up new events, new attractions and new ways to create family memories with our guests. This year we’re extending our season well into October to accommodate events and attractions sure to thrill and chill! Fall is filled with some of the best festivals the island has to offer. Enjoy an Autumn weekend with Morey’s Piers at our Fall Festival. Mariner’s Landing will look like a hayride when we give it a little makeover with seasonal décor for Fall Fest. We’ll have face painting and storytelling sessions for the kids as well as discounted ride wristbands and giveaways. Enjoy strolling entertainment, family fun and plenty of other surprises October 1-2 and 8-9 on Mariner’s Landing. After researching the annual chili cook off on the West Coast at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, we’ve decided to host our own battle of the bowls on October 9th. Taste the greatest chili and chowders around at the 1st Annual Souper Sunday Chili and Chowder Cook Off! We’ve challenged local restaurants and talented individuals to bring on the broth and compete for the glory of being crowned Best Chili or Chowder. Come hungry and pick up a tasting kit. We need your votes to determine the Guest’s Choice Awards (we also need help eating all that chili and chowder!). Traditionally, Super (or in this case, Souper) Sunday marks the final day of the Morey’s Piers operating calendar. This year, the rides are rebelling. They’re demanding to stay
open to feed on fear. Our new Halloween event, Morey’s Fears-Terror on the Boardwalk, is a gated event that will allow guests to experience Mariner’s Landing like never before. Between two custom mazes exclusive to Morey’s Fears, a supercharged Ghost Ship voyage and creepy incarnations of select rides, this event will close out the season with a scream! Cornstalkers, a creepy corn maze, dares guests to enter the corridors of corn. Be careful or you might end up a ghostly husk of your former self. We also rounded up some rogue clowns. Decaying and dangerous, there’s a reason no circus would take them. Now Bozo’s got a bone to pick- YOURS! The Morey Brothers and their team have spent 10 years researching the greatest Halloween events. They have made trips to the most intense haunts and horrors all over the country as well as around the globe to make Morey’s Fears the most immersive, intense event possible. Even if scares aren’t your thing, come check out what’s going on. The whole event is being produced in house by a 20-member team of associates from all departments. All of our full time associates will play a role in the build up and nightly productions of Morey’s Fears. Jumbo’s will be open and offering refuge to those in need of a time-out from the terror as well as non-scare seekers waiting to find out the status of their friends and loved ones who dared to enter the gates of Morey’s Fears. Chef Wally will be cooking up his famous chowder in bread bowls to warm your chilled bones. We’ll also have some new seasonal and themed treats like hot cider, pumpkin funnel cake and lots more. Don’t pack up after Labor Day. Stay and experience the Second Season. You won’t be disappointed!
CAPE MAY • STONE HARBOR • WILDWOOD • OCEAN CITY
$
1
$
5
The Original
Lori loves to wind down in the Lazy River at Morey’s Waterpark after a long day of work at the bank
plus. . .Special Discounts on all candies www.fudgekitchens.com
Lori loves to get Homemade icecream at DUFFERS and play a round of MINIATURE GOLF
$
10
www.facebook.com/ theoriginalfudgekitchen
$
1
Redeem only at The Original Fudge Kitchens. Not Transferrable. This offer not valid with any other discounts or specials. Must present this coupon.
the SUN by-the-Sea
66
“Do not the most moving moments of our lives find us all without words?” ~Marcel Marceau AUG. 13TH, 2011 AT THE LIGHT HOUSE POINT Jerry Boyle has been hosting this event since its inception 10 years ago. He is among the terrific talented entertainers who perform throughout the day, along with the host of volunteers who have been donating their time, all to make someone's life just a little easier! Proceeds go to Survivors of Cancer and their families.
10th year Anniversary SOCS
Survivors of Cancer Benefit
Vic & Bert Cappuccino with one of their 11 children, Vicky These lovebirds celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary on August 14th!
Jerry Boyle (R) with his life long friends and singing partners, Bobby Keifer & Jimmy Hillig Good friends, Steve Sansome, Sean Ford & Bobby Reed
Port Richmond pals, Franny (Moose) McMonagle (R) and ‘Shoobie’ the Firehouse bartender (L)
Ed, a SOCS Volunteer singing his rendition of Mack the Knife
Dolly McGee humbly accepts the award given to her by the SOCS team of volunteers for her faithful commitment over the past 10 years. Allison,Hannah, Eileen, Bonnie, Lauren Evan, Tom, Jeannie, Tom & Natalie The entertaining Evan Boyle
Harry & Dave the produce team at SuperFresh in NWW
Lisa , Lainey & Diana
Usually Dolly is the one who sings to the crowd, but this day, she was entertained with a crowd singing “Hello Dolly!” to her.
the SUN by-the-Sea
67
“O, long may it wave, O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!” ~ Star-Spangled Banner, Our National Anthem
A Tradition Restored … and more BY JEAN ROWAND
5 MILES of Smiles! Peace, Love & Sandy Feet
Photos by Megan Rogers Cousins, Zack, Jordan, Kyle & Will Morey enjoyed the 4th of July fire works together!
Jean Rowand salutes the flag while listening to the Star Spangled Banner followed by Kate Smith’s digitally remastered version of God Bless America over the new boardwalk sound system. Jean spent her 2 weeks in July in her beloved Wildwood by-the-Sea
Thanks to Patrick Rosenello, head of the Special Improvement District on the Boardwalk, for returning Kate Smith and “God Bless America,” to the morning announcements on the Boardwalk! At 11 a.m. each day, we will now hear “The Star Spangled Banner,” followed by Kate and then “Oh Those Wildwood Days.” The first time I heard the tribute to America in Wildwood was in 1992. My daughter, Susan, suggested sharing a place for a week down the shore with her two children. My granddaughter, Suzanne was just 3 and my grandson, Jonathan, was almost 2. My son-in-law, Joe, would only be able to join us for a day or so. An ad in a local newspaper led to a small, two bedroom place on the second floor of a duplex on East 18th Avenue, “steps from the beach and boardwalk.” We signed on, sight unseen. The house was set way back from the street, between a motel and a larger duplex. Even though Susan was driving very slowly, we almost missed it! But, the ad was true! Standing on the 2nd floor front porch, angled just right, looking between the motel’s walkways, we could see the beautiful Atlantic! We were thrilled. Unpacking was quickly accomplished so we could “hit the Boards.” We were all dazzled and stayed out late. Relaxing on Sunday morning, I thought I heard Kate Smith singing, “God Bless America.” I was pleased to think someone nearby was playing oldies or perhaps listening to a big band era radio station.
I was relieved to hear that music because we were worried about late-night noise, being next to a motel with a pool. (That fear was unfounded. The motel was very quiet at night.) Imagine my surprise when, on Monday, at the same time, Kate was again singing; and was that the National Anthem I heard first?! What was this? I walked outside and realized the music was coming from the speakers on the Boardwalk. My heart and eyes filled up. After that, I made sure to be near a window, or outside, or better yet, on the Boardwalk to hear the songs and announcements each morning of our stay. What a great way to start another day in wonderful Wildwood. We have continued our annual vacation since then, increasing it to two weeks the very next year. One week was simply not enough! A few years ago, Miss Smith was missing from the morning tradition. I couldn’t find out why until I mentioned it to Dorothy Kulisek, the editor of The SUN. Dorothy put me in touch with Patrick Rosenello who then explained to me that the new sound equipment and an old recording couldn’t be used together. To my delight, he made me aware that he had already been working on fixing the problem! Hearing those patriotic songs brings pride in America and thankfulness for our freedoms. Standing in front of that vast ocean, hand over heart, with fellow Americans, is a moving experience; one that will now continue. God has truly blessed this nation. Hopefully, we take that moment each morning to pause, thank Him and all those who serve to ensure that freedom. And, thank you, Patrick, for returning Kate Smith and her powerful voice to the Wildwoods!
Jersey Rogers with Dan Holt of the Procecutor’s Office at Wildwood’s National Night Out.
Keith Wescott, Karree Grauel, and Spencer Smith with McGruff the Crime Dog at Wildwoods Wonderful Nation Night Out.
Mike Sgrignioli enjoying a night off with his children Matthew Sophia and Olivia.
Joey Peterson with his daughters, Alexa and Lauren enjoying a Bon Fire on the beach.
Donna Troiano volunteered her time along with Jerry D’antonio to help make the National Night Out a big success.
Many locals came came out this summer to enjoy the surf clinic and Bon Fire offered at The Pier 6600 hotel by Kona Surf School.
Local kids TJ Hunt, Nick DeMento and Michael & Matthew Sgrignioli at the bonfire
Madison Hunt and friend taking a Surf lesson with Zack Deweese.
68
the SUN by-the-Sea
“The moment we break faith with one another, the sea engulfs us and the light goes out.”
~James Baldwin
The 1960’s Mid-Town Unit by Al Love After two frustrating years away at college followed by a three year hitch in the Army, I returned to Wildwood in time for the 1963 summer. What will I do now? I was 24 years old and ready for a real job. But what? Sitting on my front porch with my good buddies Ritchie Snyder and Frankie Breslin we talked it over. Frankie said he would talk with his Uncle Harry Breslin who was a lieutenant on the Wildwood Police Department. They joked that maybe I could work on the playgrounds keeping the kids in line or working at the Information Center on the boardwalk helping parents find their lost children. Two weeks later I was summoned to City Hall which was located on Pacific Ave and Montgomery at that time. It burned down a month later. I filled out an application, and received a interview with Chief Anthony Fulginiti. Soon after I was hired. Three weeks later I was issued two summer police uniforms, a whistle, ticket book, a badge, and a .38 caliber Smith & Wesson with real bullets. O my God what am I getting into ? I went to a shooting range with the other young men and we shot our guns at targets . Lt. Breslin welcomed 15 young men from several states, sworn us in, and informed us we were provisional officers and were being assigned to his Mid-Town Unit. Some would ride in patrol cars with regular full timers. We all had one week of on the job training with regular officers. We were not Special Class #1 or Class #2 officers . What did we all have in common? We were all young men attending college, just graduated from college, or employed as teachers with the summers off. I myself had completed two years of college and was a veteran. We had common sense and a clean background . Some of the guys had already worked a few summers and were getting close to starting their professional careers. You have heard many times the stories of Wildwood in the hey- day of the 50’, 60’s and early 70’s. If you hadn’t, pick up the Sun By The Sea and read the issues of the memories of people who have lived or visited here during those times. It is impossible to describe the center of town in this story. It was the Las Vegas of the East. Every big name entertainer at the time had their name on a marquee, bright lights, neon signs blinking, excitement, music blaring out the front doors, lines forming down the street to get inside a club. We controlled this crowd and kept order in the center of town which included New Jersey Ave to the boardwalk and Oak Ave to Spicer Ave. Schellenger Ave was the hub of the action. The Mid Town Squad worked seven days a week from 8pm to 4am under the command of Captain Breslin. He was a no nonsense guy, tough as nails, well respected by the guys, and a local legend in town. Breslin
Above cartoon was discovered by Al in a Ripley’s Bellieve it or Not Book had attended Wildwood High and was a star athlete in his day. We became a close knit group and covered each others back. We all had our assigned beat passing the clubs on foot and had to check in at a callbox every hour. We did not have radio communication as part of equipment in those days. We had a whistle system we used, short and long blasts to indicate trouble or to enter the intersections to stop traffic and allow emergency vehicles to get to their destination. There were the occasional fights, drunks, and disturbances , but considering the volume of people in one small area nothing considered major crime. We became familiar with entertainers, bar tenders and bouncers in town and played them in weekly afternoon softball games at Fox Park. One memorable game that I remember well is when the female singer of the Platters tagged me out going into second base. I had to live with that the whole summer. But the big stars wanted some fun games and we were happy to oblige them. I would like to mention some of the groups that played as house bands throughout the summer. They included , the McGraw Brothers, the High Hopes, Soul Survivors, Sal Massie (Sr), Georgie Young and Rockin Bocs, Cookie Jar and the Crumbs and at the Shamrock playing the piano for over 20 years Jim Bolger. The Shamrock had 7 draft beers for a dollar and most of the younger set started their night there. At the end of each summer the lifeguards led by a young Lou Cirelli did their annual drinking tour of the bars starting at the Shamrock. We were pre-warned and we kept our eyes on them that night. I still tell Captain Lou Cirelli 48 years later what a pain in the neck those guards were on Labor Day night. I probably also chased George Anderson and his P&O Avenue Boys off their corner a few nights then also. Well the night club scene started to fad in the 70’s when the casinos opened in Atlantic City. The entertainment left, the neon lights went out, the streets were empty, the clubs started to be boarded up and later torn down. The Mid Town Squad was a thing of the past and never formed again. The memories of all the guys working together will never be forgotten, they were the best summers of our lives.
1st row from left; Barry Hoffman, Bobby Gilbert, Gerry Gladkowski , Ernie Odgers 2nd row from left: John Scarpata, Rich Goodkin, Jimmy Driscoll 3rd row: from left Walt Cottman, Pete Zenakes, and Dirk Gross. The guys went on to become lawyers, teachers, principals, doctors, college coaches, an FBI agent, and other professional careers. For myself I retired after 28 years as a State Investigator for the Division Of Gaming Enforcement (DGE). So I guess that decision in 1963 started my career toward law enforcement. We had a few reunions in Wildwood. The last one was about 15 years ago. The reunions also ended in time as we got married, had grandkids and spread out over the country. There is a plaque in memory of one of our Mid -Town guys Pete Zenakis and is located on his old beat. The plaque with his name and dates was placed in the pavement of the NW corner of Schellenger and Atlantic. We wanted something there to remember Pete and those years of our lives. Pete worked four summers in Mid Town, then landed a federal position in Washington, DC. Five years later Pete died of cancer. He was a good smart officer, a fun loving guy who we all respected. The first Mid Towner to pass away. We dedicated that plaque to him. This is for you Pete.
Officer Romeo
Officer Love
Pete Zenakis Memorial Plaque as it appears outside of the Schellenger Restaurant on Atlantic Ave.
1st Row L-R: Lt. Harry Breslin, Neil Dowling, Bobby Gilbert, Jim Hogston 2nd Row L-R: Pete Xenakis, Ray Loftus, Jim Guidice 3rd Row L-R: George Hagopian, Bernie Baylor, Al Love
the SUN by-the-Sea
“The cyclone derives its powers from a calm center. So does a person.”
69 ~Norman Vincent Peale
“Get the heck off the beach! You’ve maxed out your tans!” ~Orders from Governor Christie
Editor Dorothy Kulisek follows Governor Christie’s mandatory evacuation order as she leaves her home/office, taking only the essentials!
August 27, 2011 *Due to Hurricane Irene, this page remained unfinished at press time.
Satellite image of the foreboding hurricane.
the SUN by-the-Sea
70
“Most men pursue pleasure with such breathless haste that they hurry past it.”
~Soren Kierkegaard
CAPTAIN GARY’S Fall Fishing Report Hello and Welcome!
Free Bait • Instructions • Parking
LADIES DAY! Monday & Friday
1/2 Fare
DAY FISHING! DAILY 10AM - 4PM
1
$
Coupon Good for everyone in group. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
.00 off
SUN
ENCLOSED LOUNGES • FULL GALLEY BEER, SODA & SNACKS LATEST FISH FINDING & SAFETY EQUIPMENT TWO BATHROOMS ONBOARD FAST TWIN DIESEL • RODS AVAILABLE US COASTGUARD CERTIFIED FISH CLEANING SERVICE
NITE FISHING! SAT. 6PM - MIDNITE $
FISH UNDER THE STARS
2
Coupon Good for everyone in group. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
.00 off
SUN
tides roll in... tides roll out Wildwoods Fall Fishing Tournies 2011
Don’t look now but the 2011 summer season will soon become recent history. As a local resident I always looked upon Labor Day weekend as the official end of summer. I know that officially the calendar has it occurring later in September. Here are a couple of signs for the locals to note the end of summer. The lonely Tuesday morning drive after the Labor Day weekend to the boat. An empty Wawa screams out (it’s over). Suddenly swallows are lined up on the electric power lines on Kennedy Drive. The few people on the beach in the morning are the beach cleaners. Dried brown leaves have come out of hiding in the Maple tree and started the assault on your beautiful green lawn. An initial sighting of the first tumbleweed. OK I am getting carried away. Fall fishing has a unique feel to itself. The slower pace of life on the island allows everyone to squeeze a little joy out of a day. The cooler nights seem to rekindle the energy and boost the spirit. It also brings Bluefish to the surf looking for the bait balls of Mullet. I always get a little melancholy and reflective in the fall with the reality that the promise of spring has passed and the summer colors begin to fade. The first contact with a Striper brings back the memories of great fall Striper fishing and suddenly the melancholy ebbs away like the tide. The summer blue ocean loses its deep blue color to the fall greenish brown mix and the many migratory species begin to school up for warmer waters. A tip of the hat to the off shore crowd. If there was ever a summer to be an off shore sport fisherman this was the summer. The Tuna bite has been incredible. The consistency of action offshore happens maybe every 20 years. The spread of Dolphin inshore have made it a frequent catch at the reefs, while Flounder fishing. We are banking on a Cobia before the end of the year. The Sea Bass and Flounder have cooperative most of the summer and should continue into the fall. Keeper ratio’s have been up and down but the action has been consistent. Tautog fishing should also improve into the fall. Croakers and Weakfish have disappointed again this year. They should school up outside Hereford Inlet in October and give us plenty of action. The Flounder season continues thru September hopefully keeping the fluke anglers interested. Mother nature for her part has blessed us with pretty nice weather this summer. We can hope it will continue into the fall. This is the year you should DVD the Eagles football games and enjoy those beautiful Sunday’s in the outdoors, fishing in the surf, bays or oceans. Share with family or friends a wonderful relaxing day in nature and give yourself a warm memory for a cold day this winter. God Bless,
9/9-11 42nd Annual Surf Fishing Tournament Gazebo Registration 6am. 3rd Ave. & JFK. 609-522-2955 10/1 57th Annual Pennsauken Surf Fishing Club Tournament Registration 6am. Anglesea Firehouse 2nd & NJ Ave. 856-231-9110 10/8 33rd Great Fall Classic Surf Fishing Tournament Registration 6am. 15th & Beach 609.290.6480
As your waves and surging tides sweep over me, O Lord, each day, pour your unfailing love on me.” ~ psalm 42:7
GPS image shows the Adventurer positioned 10 miles out at sea
Captain Gary Sloan, T HE A DVENTURER , W ILDWOOD , NJ
A Fisherman’s Prayer: “KEEPER” I pray that I may live to fish Until my dying day;And when it comes to my last cast. I then most humbly pray When in the Lord’s great landing net And peacefully asleep That in His mercy I be judged good enough to keep.
the SUN by-the-Sea
“What a beautiful, sunny morning. It makes you happy to be alive, doesn’t it?” ~Takayuki Ikkaku
A DAYTRIP Fishing Onboard the Adventurer BY JOSH KINNEY When you’re standing on the shore and looking out at the ocean a part of you always wonders what it looks like to see the beach from the sea. Cruising the bay is one thing, but being miles out on the ocean is quite another. The vastness envelops and engulfs everything. The sheer size is incomprehensible and there’s nothing like heading east knowing that the only thing in front of you is (eventually) Europe and Africa. Seems surreal, having left port in New Jersey. At 10 AM every day Captain Gary’s Adventurer fishing boat heads out from the harbor beside the Rio Grande Bridge. The boat snakes its way through Wildwood’s back bays, through the Cape May Inlet and out into the immensity of the open ocean, traveling approximately ten miles from the coast. Out in the distance you can see Wildwood on the horizon: the white rounded convention center, the Ocean Towers and The Grand in Diamond Beach. The Cape May Lighthouse looks like a spec, but you can make that out as well. Captain Gary cuts the engines to the boat and all rods drop their lines simultaneously. Everyone’s hoping for a big catch to be the possible winner of the ‘pot’ for the biggest fish caught, or just for the thrill of the tug and bringing a fish up out of the water. Captain Gary’s helping hands Jay and Todd come around to make sure everyone is situated, baiting rods and unhooking fish. “Make sure the weight on your rod hits the bottom,” said Todd, an experienced fisherman. Letting the line out a little more it can sometimes be easy to over think a slight jerk of the rod or nibble from a flounder. However, fishing out on The Adventurer is especially relaxing. With very little prior experience, my first deep sea fishing trip was guided by the patient and helpful crew of The Adventurer who willingly showed my friend Jason and I the ropes, despite his incessant references to the movie “Jaws.” With our rods cast deep we didn’t have to wait long before bites and tugs led to flounder, sea robins and even a 14 inch sea bass that we kept and immediately grilled up and ate when we got back to shore. Delectable! So now I know what it’s like to see from all the way out there and if you haven’t, I encourage you to do so. It’s a strange feeling knowing that at night while I sleep on the five mile island that giant seemingly endless ocean is right down the street, something Captain Gary knows all too well. All these years spent on land admiring the sea, for a day I got to become a part of it thanks to Captain Gary and the crew of The Adventurer.
71
the SUN by-the-Sea
72
“How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.”
NSSEETT UN SSU llss
S Sppeecciiaae
north wildwood
orre b beeffo M PM 6 6P
400 W. SPRUCE AVENUE • NORTH WILDWOOD Reservations Accepted 609.522.7600 www.coconutcovenj.com for directions and band schedule ○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
The Carribbean is closer than you think! Discover 3 Acres of Sandy, Bayfront Beach, complete with Tropical Gardens, Fabulous Food & Drink, V.I.P. Authentic Tiki Huts, Lounge Chairs & Sunsets every evening! Rain or Shine! We’ve got you covered! ○
LUNCH ~ DINNER ~ LATE NITE ○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
Casual Upscale Menus Family-Friendly Prices! 7 Bars including a Boat Bar Tropical Drinks our Specialty! 6 Outdoor Dining Decks Waterfront Dining~Spectacular Sunsets Included!
Come by way of water, Plenty of free docking available.
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
LIVE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT at “The Cove” 6pm-10pm LIVE INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT inside the “Tiki House” 10pm-2am
Watercolor by Dorothy McMonagle Kulisek 2011
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
○
COCONUT COVE WILL BE OPEN ALL FALL LONG Visit us Sept. 22-25 IRISH WEEKEND and for all the Fall Festivals!
Call us now about: Catering, Private Parties, Weddings, & Special Affairs Book early! Visit www.coconutcovenj.com for more details.
~Annie Dillard