Wildwood’s Friday Night Fireworks on hold

PRESS RELEASE 

Wildwood, NJ – Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron has postponed Friday Night Fireworks for the time being. 

“No one wants fireworks for our residents, visitors and businesses more than I do,” stated Byron. “However, we cannot make this decision in a vacuum.” 

Byron is referring to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s recent repeal to open indoor dining establishments and Covid-19 spikes in other states. 

“Unfortunately, many feel that social distancing and masks are arbitrary rather than lifesaving. If we are going to do this, we have to do it right – do it in a way that we can protect the most valuable part of Wildwood which is people.”

“We simply cannot produce the fireworks in a way that can guarantee public safety, and until we can, it is our duty to examine further possibilities as well as the facts,” offered Commissioner of Public Safety, Steve Mikulski.

Deputy Mayor, Krista Fitzsimons went on to say, “In Wildwood, we entertain and have done so for generations, but we always have to consider the impact to our residents, visitors and businesses when we approve any events, especially those taking place in the middle of a pandemic. 

“Yes, we want people to come to Wildwood for fireworks, but we want them to leave us happy and healthy to return every year.”

The City of Wildwood Board of Commissioners will continue to hear suggestions from the county, businesses and the public. 

The public is invited to email suggestions to infowildwoodnj@gmail.com or join the bi-weekly Zoom meetings posted at www.wildwoodnj.org.

The City of Wildwood, NJ renames Rio Grande Avenue “Beach Ball Boulevard”

PRESS RELEASE

Beach Ball Boulevard is now a fun and functional, clearly recognizable part of the sensory overload of lights and Doo Wop design that is distinctly the Wildwoods...

Wildwoods municipal officials, businesses and residents are excited to announce that Rio Grande Avenue from the new Grand Gateway at the George Redding Bridge and east to Ocean Avenue to the famous Wildwoods sign has been renamed Beach Ball Boulevard.

Along with City officials, the Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) announced the completion of the all-new $13.7 million, Cape May County led gateway enhancement which commenced in February 2019. 

The project included road reconstruction, new streetscapes, and utility project stretches from 1,300 feet west of Susquehanna Avenue (near the existing eastern abutment joint of the George Redding Bridge) to Artic Avenue in the City of Wildwood.

City of Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron noted that the extensive improvements that resulted in a brand-new corridor lent themselves to renaming the new gateway into the island.

“No disrespect to Rio Grande, but we now have our own identity. The most photographed location on our island arguably is the Wildwoods sign and Beach Ball Boulevard leads right into it,” said Byron.

With the new administration’s pledge for open, inclusive and transparent communication, residents, second homeowners, and vacationers to the Wildwoods were asked to weigh in and provided their feedback regarding the renaming via a digital survey. 

As part of the survey the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority offered a chance to win a fun day in the Wildwoods for a family of four  to include amusement and waterpark passes to Morey’s Piers, a round of golf at the Dragon Lair Blacklight Mini-golf, and tickets for the Wildwoods Sightseer Tram Car. This helped guide the City in this decision-making process. 

More than 5,000 surveys were returned with name change suggestions. An impartial nominating committee narrowed the suggestions to the top five submissions, and a select committee submitted their final recommendations to the Board of City Commissioners for their consideration – the result was the new name, Beach Ball Boulevard.

Beach Ball Boulevard is now a fun and functional, clearly recognizable part of the sensory overload of lights and Doo Wop design that is distinctly the Wildwoods, predicated on the colorful, elegantly tacky, bold and brash design era of the 1950’s, when neon lights, whacky shapes and humor dominated. 

Philadelphia architect Richard Stokes, who designed the now-famous 80-foot-long, 19-foot-high iconic Wildwoods sign, also designed the Grand Gateway as an extension to the larger-than-life brushed aluminum sign, which is aptly situation at the end of Beach Ball Boulevard at the Boardwalk; a fitting exclamation point to travelers’ journey on the Corridor, as they make their way to the beach, the boardwalk and their hotels for a fun family vacation in the Wildwoods.

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

The City of Wildwood, NJ renames Rio Grande Avenue “Beach Ball Boulevard”

PRESS RELEASE

Beach Ball Boulevard is now a fun and functional, clearly recognizable part of the sensory overload of lights and Doo Wop design that is distinctly the Wildwoods...

Wildwoods municipal officials, businesses and residents are excited to announce that Rio Grande Avenue from the new Grand Gateway at the George Redding Bridge and east to Ocean Avenue to the famous Wildwoods sign has been renamed Beach Ball Boulevard.

Along with City officials, the Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) announced the completion of the all-new $13.7 million, Cape May County led gateway enhancement which commenced in February 2019. 

The project included road reconstruction, new streetscapes, and utility project stretches from 1,300 feet west of Susquehanna Avenue (near the existing eastern abutment joint of the George Redding Bridge) to Artic Avenue in the City of Wildwood.

City of Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron noted that the extensive improvements that resulted in a brand-new corridor lent themselves to renaming the new gateway into the island.

“No disrespect to Rio Grande, but we now have our own identity. The most photographed location on our island arguably is the Wildwoods sign and Beach Ball Boulevard leads right into it,” said Byron.

With the new administration’s pledge for open, inclusive and transparent communication, residents, second homeowners, and vacationers to the Wildwoods were asked to weigh in and provided their feedback regarding the renaming via a digital survey. 

As part of the survey the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority offered a chance to win a fun day in the Wildwoods for a family of four  to include amusement and waterpark passes to Morey’s Piers, a round of golf at the Dragon Lair Blacklight Mini-golf, and tickets for the Wildwoods Sightseer Tram Car. This helped guide the City in this decision-making process. 

More than 5,000 surveys were returned with name change suggestions. An impartial nominating committee narrowed the suggestions to the top five submissions, and a select committee submitted their final recommendations to the Board of City Commissioners for their consideration – the result was the new name, Beach Ball Boulevard.

Beach Ball Boulevard is now a fun and functional, clearly recognizable part of the sensory overload of lights and Doo Wop design that is distinctly the Wildwoods, predicated on the colorful, elegantly tacky, bold and brash design era of the 1950’s, when neon lights, whacky shapes and humor dominated. 

Philadelphia architect Richard Stokes, who designed the now-famous 80-foot-long, 19-foot-high iconic Wildwoods sign, also designed the Grand Gateway as an extension to the larger-than-life brushed aluminum sign, which is aptly situation at the end of Beach Ball Boulevard at the Boardwalk; a fitting exclamation point to travelers’ journey on the Corridor, as they make their way to the beach, the boardwalk and their hotels for a fun family vacation in the Wildwoods.

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

48-year legion member honored for 90th birthday, city dedicates July 3rd as “Bernie Rush Day”

Mayor Byron, Commissioner Steve Milkulski, and Commissioner Fitzsimmons presented the proclamation on Wednesday at Post 184...

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD, NJ – A big surprise for Post 184 member Bernie Rush came on Wednesday evening at American Legion Post 184. To celebrate his 90th birthday, City of Wildwood representatives presented Rush with his very own proclamation; that July 3rd would be known as “Bernie Rush Day”.

Officers and members of Post 184 celebrated during a socially distant ceremony on Wednesday, July 1st. Before enjoying cake and presents, Rush was presented one of the City's highest honors from the Mayor and Commissioners.

"Bernie Rush embodies the spirit of Wildwood: family, community, country,” said Mayor Pete Byron. “He has consistently served all three with heart all of his 90 years and counting. It is our pleasure to declare July 3rd 'Bernie Rush Day' so that this true American patriot is forever woven into the fabric of Wildwood."

Born in Montevideo, Minnesota in 1930, Rush is a veteran of the Korean War. He was stationed in Germany and was an Army sergeant with the motor unit.

Back home, he worked for the Budd company in Philadelphia at the Red Lion Road plant before it was shut down in 1987.

Through the summers, Rush worked as a bartender at the Post 184 canteen, and upon moving to Cape May County full time he volunteered to serve as the finance officer. He is still currently the finance officer.

Rush has three children, Terry, Bernard Jr, and Terrence with his wife Therese who passed in 1996.

Post 184 Commander Harry Weimar was very happy with the support of the City of Wildwood for one of the organizations most dedicated members

“Bernie has been a member for a long time and he’s always helping,” said Weimar. “There is not one event he has not attended unless he had another commitment. He is a very good member, organized finance officer, and great person.”

To learn more about American Legion Post 184, visit their website at legion184.org and follow on Facebook @legion184.

A Safety Message from Wildwood Police - July 4th Weekend

As we prepare to finally enter the beginning of our summer season, with the 4th of July Holiday weekend, and celebrate our Nation's Independence, we wanted to take a moment to provide our residents and visitors with some additional information regarding planned enhancements to public safety. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wildwood's lifeblood - tourism - has been greatly and adversely impacted.

This, coupled with the increased acceptance of social disorder across the Nation has challenged the "Family" environment we've come to love and enjoy every summer. Therefore, I have implemented several additional enforcement measures in an effort to enhance public safety within our community.

  

The City of Wildwood Commissioners have recently relaxed the restrictions of our "Open Display" Ordinance. This was done in an effort to help our licensed liquor establishments by providing them the ability to permit the consumption of alcohol in the area immediately adjacent to their buildings. However, anyone found consuming alcoholic beverages separated from these establishments, will be found to be in violation of our Ordinance and a local ordinance summons will be issued.

  

If you intend to partake in the consumption of alcoholic beverages at one of our many establishments, please do not drink and drive. There are many other options available, such as Taxi's, Uber, Lyft, and the Five Mile Beach Trolly service. Please be sure to take advantage of these services should you choose to consume alcoholic beverages.

  

Additionally, we will as always, continue to strictly enforce violations of the Controlled Dangerous Substance Act. Specifically targeting those that are found to be in the possession of and/or under the influence of Marijuana. Further, smoking of any kind on the beaches and boardwalk to include; cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vapes, etc. is strictly prohibited and our officers will take action. Lastly, the increasing incidents of disorderly conduct will be targeted and stringently enforced.

We have increased the number of officers assigned to our foot, bicycle, K-9 and vehicle patrols within the City of Wildwood, especially on our boardwalk. Our intent is to ensure that the residents and visitors of this great City, have the opportunity to experience all that Wildwood has to offer. Our bathing beaches, boardwalk, amusement rides and water parks, arcades, stores and eateries, so that you can make a positive and lasting memory to remember for years to come.

During these troubling times of the COVID pandemic, we encourage everyone to ensure for your own personal safety. Please maintain social distancing, wash your hands frequently, utilize hand sanitizer and wear a mask. While masks may not be required, they are strongly and respectfully encouraged. 

It is my sincere hope that you all stay safe and have an enjoyable holiday weekend with your  family and friends in the City of Wildwood!

Robert N. Regalbuto,  Chief of Police

4400 New Jersey Avenue 

Wildwood, New Jersey  08260

PHONE: 609-522-0222

Wildwood Crest’s Sunset Lake to host free entertainment Mondays and Thursdays

PRESS RELEASE 

WILDWOOD CREST – The Borough of Wildwood Crest will host two evenings of free entertainment each week in July and August along the southern portion of Sunset Lake near Louisville Road and New Jersey Avenue.

Mondays will feature the weekly Sunset Celebrations, which include live music, children’s/family entertainment and free family photos. Sunset Celebrations will be held each Monday from July 6 through Aug. 24. July Sunset Celebrations will begin at 7:30 p.m., with August Sunset Celebrations starting at 7 p.m.

The Sunset Celebration live music schedule includes appearances by C.J. and Seamus (July 6 and Aug. 3), Camille Peruto (July 13, Aug. 10 and Aug. 24), Rachel and Ty (July 20) and Dr. Al Trombino (Aug. 17).

Sunset Celebration children’s/family entertainment includes magic shows, variety shows and live animal exhibitions.

Thursday evenings will feature live music in the Sunset Lake gazebo. The Thursday live music will be held each week from July 9 through Aug. 27, with July events beginning at 7:30 p.m. and August events beginning at 7 p.m. 

Music entertainment includes Rachel and Ty (July 9 and Aug. 13), Legacy Band Trio (July 16 and Aug. 20), Camille Peruto (July 23 and Aug. 6) and Laura Lea (July 30 and Aug. 27).

Official Wildwood Crest apparel, including T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, beach towels and more, will also be on sale at both events each week.

Those attending the Monday Sunset Celebrations and the Thursday live music events are encouraged to wear masks and should practice safe social distancing.

For further information, log on to the Events and Festivals page at wildwoodcrest.org or call the Wildwood Crest Recreation Department at 609-523-0202.

There’s magic in the air in Downtown Wildwood: Real magic at New Jersey’s only outdoor theater of magic

PRESS RELEASE 

You won’t believe your eyes as New Jersey’s first and only Outdoor Theater of Magic comes to Downtown Wildwood!

Guests who previewed the spectacular new “Belmont Evening of Fun & Magic” show declared it, “The Best Family Show in Wildwood!”

The show stars award-winning Magicians, Al & Sue Belmont, who have headlined aboard cruise ships, at state fairs and at major theme parks across the USA. The show also features guest artists John Bundy and Morgan who have dazzled audiences throughout Europe and Asia.

It’s one-hour of fast moving family fun featuring big TV style illusions, a potpourri of smaller effects, thrilling escapes and the enchanting Circus on a String Marionettes.

The unique outdoor setting is especially appropriate at this difficult time. In addition, seating will be limited to only 33 social groups per show. All families will be seated together, socially distanced 6’ from all other guests. All seats will be disinfected before every show and a hands-free Sanitizing Station will be available for all as they enter.

Belmont is the recent winner of the prestigious Milbourne Christopher "Master of Magic" Award. The Award recognizes magicians for “excellence in the magical arts.” Previous winners include David Copperfield, Penn & Teller, Siegfried & Roy and Harry Blackstone Jr.

Belmont offers mirth, magic and spectacular surprises. With state of the art illusions, live animals, colorful costumes and lots of audience participation with no actual contact, the Belmont Magic Show adds up to fast-moving entertainment for all from 6 to 96! 

In addition to receiving the Christopher Master’s Award, Belmont’s credits include Performing Arts Centers, the NJ Festival of Ballooning, the famed Florida Strawberry Festival and Northern Quest Casino.

The Belmont show also includes Master Illusionist John Bundy, well known from many appearances on TV Talk Shows; Morgan, the Ultimate Liberated Woman, a real “Houdini in Heels”, named "Escape Artist of the Year" by CW Network’s "World Magic Awards"; and the enchanting Circus on Strings, great fun for all ages, featuring a cast of beautifully hand-crafted marionette entertainers including a Juggler, Unicyclist, Contortionist and Trapeze Artist.

Belmont presents more than tricks. He creates great family entertainment melding illusions, humor, a captivating voice and warm rapport with the audience to create Real Magic. The charismatic conjuror's shows elicit wonder, a smile and something to tell your friends about!

“Belmont’s Evening of Fun & Magic", will be presented every Friday, Saturday & Sunday, through Labor Day, at Downtown Wildwood’s Outdoor Theater of Magic located at 3501 Pacific Avenue, at the corner of Schellenger Avenue, by Byrne Plaza. 

Show times will be at 7 pm and 9 pm each night until July 17th when the Friday Night schedule changes to just one show at 9 pm. Regularly priced, at just $15 for kids to age 12, and $17 for adults, July features a Grand Opening Discount of $2 per ticket. 

Tickets are available before each show at the theater. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by calling (609) 206-5244 or email belmontmagic@verizon.net.

Wildwood Historical Society among NJ museums to reopen tomorrow (July 2nd)

PRESS RELEASE 

WILDWOOD NJ - On Thursday, July 2, the Wildwood Historical Society will be among the NJ museums, aquariums, arcades and bowling alleys permitted to reopen per statewide order.

Our George Boyer Museum will resume our new and improved summer hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am - 3 pm and Sundays 12 pm - 5 pm (closed Tuesdays). We will be open July 4.

Our gift shop has been open since June 18, and will continue to operate. We will offer free pickup for orders purchased on our online store and eBay store. We thank you for your support.

Please read our COVID-19 protocols to learn how we are working to keep our staff and patrons safe. Remember to wear a mask and practice social distancing at our museum.

Come learn about the history of your favorite seaside resort. We are thrilled that we will now once again be able to resume our mission of educating the public, inducing nostalgia and bringing back happy memories.

It's FREE to visit the Wildwood Historical Society: no admission fee! Voted the 5th best attraction in Wildwood according to TripAdvisor, we make an excellent rainy day activity. Ask for our scavenger hunt -- children love it! Park in our parking lot to avoid parking meters. See you soon at 3907 Pacific Ave!

Eighth Annual Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival is Friday, July 10th

UPDATE – 7/8/2020: Due to the threat of heavy rain, the 8th annual Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival has been moved from Friday, July 10 to Saturday, July 11.

The event will be held on the beach at Heather Road from 9 am to 2 pm.

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

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD CREST – Families, friends and kids of all ages who love playing in the sand should start making plans to attend the Eighth Annual Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival on Friday, July 10, from 9 am until 2 pm on the beach next to the Wildwood Crest Beach Pier at Heather Road.

Grab your  buckets and shovels and get ready to create works of art. Making sand castles at the beach has been a fun summertime activity since the first shell washed ashore, and now this great American pastime is coming back to Wildwood Crest in a big way.

The contest is being organized in conjunction with Can You Dig It Sand Tools and is directed by internationally known sand sculptor Matt Long.

Long is a regular competitor at master competitions, including the World Championships of Sand Sculpting, and is an original cast member of the former Travel Channel Show "Sand Masters." Long's career in sand sculpting began right here in South Jersey at amateur events like this one.

Registration for the contest is FREE and will begin at 9 am on the day of the event. Pre-registration can also be done by emailing michele@sandtools.com.

Social distancing measures will be in effect for the event. Participants and spectators are encouraged to wear masks. A perimeter will be set up around the sculptures to help with social distancing efforts.

Sculptures will be judged on creativity, execution, composition and overall presentation. Prizes and awards will be presented to the top three winners in each division. There will also be a People's Choice award for the Best on the Beach, where the winner is voted by spectator ballot.

To ensure a level playing field, the contest will have six separate divisions ranging from solo youth and youth groups to solo adult and adult teams. For the fourth straight year, there will also be a pro-am division for participants with more sand sculpting experience.

All other entertainment surrounding the festival has been cancelled in order to try to prevent large groups of people from gathering at the event for long periods of time, in compliance with Executive Order 152 by Governor Phil Murphy that limits the amount of people permitted at outdoor social gatherings.

For additional information, call 609-523-0202 or visit www.wildwoodcrest.org.

County freeholders, mayors and chamber issue urgent request for universal mask-wearing throughout Cape May County

PRESS RELEASE 

CAPE MAY COUNTY, NJ – The Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders, the Cape May County Chamber Board of Directors, and the Mayors of all sixteen Cape May County municipalities released this joint statement today as follows:

We join together to urgently request that all residents of and visitors to Cape May County wear face coverings in all public places, other than certain very limited exceptions. Thanks to the good sense, hard work, and sacrifices of members of our community, COVID-19 cases in Cape May County have remained below a critical threshold, however, we must take bold steps to ensure that cases continue to trend downward or, at minimum, remain steady even with the influx of seasonal residents and visitors expected during July and August. For the health of all and as an investment in the economic health of our community, we deeply appreciate and now depend upon the cooperation of business owners, staff members, and the public in this needed next step.

States and regions ahead of New Jersey in the business reopening process are experiencing surges of the coronavirus that are, in certain instances, exceeding the capacity of medical infrastructure. 

This has caused both pauses in business openings and the reclosing of businesses.  As a result, community leaders are focusing attention on and stepping up efforts to promote protocols such as mask-wearing in order to avoid similar outcomes.

“Cape May County is a safe place to live, work, and visit, and we must step up aggressively to meet the COVID threat in order to keep it that way,” stated Will Morey, Cape May County Freeholder and Co-Chair of the County’s Recovery Task Force. 

“We’re in a position right now to contain the mild outbreak of COVID that our County is experiencing. Engaging this clear and present threat will serve to protect public health and, for businesses, may literally save the summer,” Morey added.

An established and growing body of scientific studies support mask-wearing as an effective mitigation in the spread of COVID-19, and a consensus had rapidly developed on this matter in the wider medical community. States that have instituted a mask mandate have demonstrably slowed their COVID growth rate.

For specifics on face coverings that are in compliance with this request, please see the relevant CDC guidance.

The following are exceptions, where the mask-wearing request does not apply:

• For those engaged in active outdoor recreation such as swimming, walking, hiking, bicycling, or running.

• While on the beach, so long as strict social distancing is maintained.

• When socially distanced and eating or drinking in public at a restaurant, bar, or other food or beverage establishment.

• By those who cannot medically tolerate wearing a face covering.

• By children aged 9 or younger.

Please note that the request for the wearing of face coverings INCLUDES the County’s Boardwalks.

“Wherever you are, we welcome you to come here and enjoy your summer in a responsible way,” said Freeholder Len Desiderio, who is the Mayor of Sea Isle City and Co-Chair of the County’s Recovery Task Force. “We’ve had good participation with directives so far, and this urgent mask-wearing request is an important way for us to be proactive and make sure our visitors will not make COVID a summer memory,” he added.

While united in issuing this urgent request for the wearing of face coverings, the group also recognizes the absolute necessity of observing adherence to capacity limitations imposed by State Executive Order, particularly for bars and restaurants. All efforts will be made to encourage and compel owners, staff, and the public to operate and congregate within those limits.

“Businesses are really the front line of actively encouraging folks to follow protocols, wear masks and social distance,” commented Vicki Clark, President of the Cape May County Chamber. “This urgent request will help businesses protect their employees and customers, as well as their own economic vitality throughout the summer season,” added Clark.

The County will continue to monitor health data and observations of activity in the area and update the public on mitigation measures as needed. 

To assist with positively and proactively requesting mask use, free graphics and marketing materials are available for public download at www.safelytogethercmc.com.

Wildwood Crest cancels July music series shows, Christmas in July event

PRESS RELEASE 

WILDWOOD CREST – The Borough of Wildwood Crest has canceled all July shows in its Summer Music Series and the Christmas in July Festival scheduled for Saturday, July 25.

These cancellations are in response to Executive Order 152 by Governor Phil Murphy that limits the amount of people that can attend an outdoor social gathering.

Wildwood Crest had previously canceled the first four shows of its Summer Music Series at Centennial Park. 

The remaining canceled shows in July include performances by the Deck Band on Saturday, July 11; Fuse Box on Wednesday, July 15; Roundhouse Band on Saturday, July 18; Sass Band on Wednesday, July 22; Big Bleu on Saturday, July 25; and Barefoot Bobby and the Breakers on Wednesday, July 29.

The 2020 Wildwood Crest Summer Music Series is now tentatively scheduled to begin on Saturday, Aug. 1, at 7:30 p.m. at Centennial Park with a performance by the Legacy Band, if the governor further raises the limits on outdoor social gatherings. 

Subsequent shows are scheduled for each Wednesday through Sept. 2 and each Saturday through Sept. 19 at Centennial Park, which is located at Fern Road and Ocean Avenue.

Executive Order 152 currently limits outdoor gatherings to no more than 250 people. That limit is not high enough for the Wildwood Crest Summer Music Series to function, however, as the performances regularly draw crowds of more than 500 people on Wednesday evenings and more than 1,000 people on Saturday evenings.

The outdoor gathering limit is also not high enough for the third annual Wildwood Crest Christmas in July Festival that was scheduled for Saturday, July 25, at Sunset Lake. Last year’s event drew approximately 800 people.

The full schedule for the Wildwood Crest Summer Music Series, as well as information on other special events and activities in Wildwood Crest, can be found on the Events and Festivals page at wildwoodcrest.org.

For more information, contact the Wildwood Crest Recreation Department at 609-523-0202.

Wildwood mayor appeals for re-opening of indoor dining as scheduled

PRESS RELEASE 

Wildwood, NJ – Looking to prevent a catastrophic summer season for local businesses and employees, Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron today appealed to the Governor to resume indoor dining as originally scheduled for Thursday, July 2nd at 25% capacity.

“The Governor’s decision to postpone indoor dining cripples the recovery efforts of restaurants and will likely be a knockout punch for numerous local establishments. Being the most critical time for our short seasonal economy, I believe it is imperative to return to restricted indoor dining without any further delay,” Byron said. 

Commenting on Cape May County’s virus rate, Byron continued, “New Jersey has done a remarkable job flattening the curve and reducing COVID-19 cases. The state’s actions have been instrumental in seeing Cape May County with the lowest numbers in the state. 

“Cape May County is showing its responsible in combating the pandemic and local businesses are doing their share.”

Byron expressed his confidence that businesses will apply the appropriate safeguards needed to allow limited indoor dining. 

“Local restaurants have had months preparing for a new approach to safely serve their customers with limited space, crowd control, masks and disinfectants. Additionally, businesses have spent substantial amounts of money rehiring employees, buying food and supplies, and changing their layout design furnished with effective PPE,” said Byron.

Byron acknowledged the Governor’s concerns with virus spikes throughout the country and reckless behavior by some businesses. 

“Obviously, there are always people who ignore the rules and common sense even if it jeopardizes public health. But the actions of a few shouldn’t cause such great harm to the majority of responsible businesses. I appeal to the Governor to resume indoor dining as previously planned and give businesses and employees the opportunity to save their livelihoods,” concluded Byron.

"Celebrate Our Independence Barbecue" this weekend at Post 184

PRESS RELEASE

WILDWOOD, NJ - Grab some red, white and blue outfits and head over to the Celebrate Our Independence Barbecue at American Legion Post 184 this weekend. On July 4th, from 3 pm to 7 pm, veterans at Post 184 will host a fundraising event on the lawn.

The event is open to the public and encourages people to come out and enjoy the holiday with family and friends while practicing social distancing. For a minimum donation of $8, guests can enjoy burgers, hot dogs, assorted salads, soft drinks and dessert while listening to local duo Brian and Mindy.

Guests are encouraged to RSVP online to ensure the proper amount of food is ordered: legion184.org/events

The barbecue is a general fundraiser for Post 184 to help restart the organization. Like most organizations and businesses, the pandemic has greatly affected Post 184.

Patriotic tee shirts will also be available and will benefit the building fund. Repairs have been a large focus for fundraising over the past year and will continue to be a primary push for 2020 events.

Tee shirts include "Land of the Free because of the Brave," "Freedom Isn't Free," and "Proud to be an American" and can be viewed online.

For more information on events and to stay up to date with Post 184 activities, visit legion184.org and follow on Facebook @legion184.

RSVP to this event online at legion184.org/events.

Wildwood July 4th fireworks CANCELLED

PRESS RELEASE

Wildwood, NJ - The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) and the City of Wildwood are disappointed to announce the cancelation of July 4th fireworks in the interest of public safety.

Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron and Commissioners Mikulski and Fitzsimons are making the call in an effort to discourage large gatherings on what is traditionally the busiest holiday of the year which also happens to fall on the busiest day of the week: Saturday.

“Wildwood is ready, willing and able to produce a spectacular fireworks show,” stated Mayor Pete Byron. “However, as we’ve seen with the delay of opening indoor dining this week, the public is not adequately following Covid-19 public safety rules such as social distancing. We can’t take a chance that Wildwood sees a spike in cases and shuts down our businesses who have already suffered immensely due to closures."

“Even though we moved the location to the widest part of the Wildwoods, we expect large crowds to gather in and around Rio Grande Avenue for the display,” said Commissioner of Public Safety, Steve Mikulski. “We cannot take the chance that the public will be unable to practice social distancing due to crowds."

Commissioner Fitzsimons said, “We are hopeful that the City, GWTIDA and SID [Boardwalk Special Improvement District] can come to some resolution for the Friday Night Fireworks that the city and visitors have come to know and love since 1995. We expect a decision on that in the near future.”

Downtown Wildwood "Sip, Shop & Strolls" begin on July 17th

PRESS RELEASE

Downtown Wildwood - The Downtown Wildwood Arts & Music Series begins on July 17 with an artist-themed Sip, Shop & Stroll event!

This will be the first of eight consecutive Friday night events, sponsored by the Wildwood Business Improvement District in Downtown Wildwood at Byrne Plaza, 3400 Pacific Avenuje.

The Downtown Wildwood Sip, Shop & Stroll events will feature 12+ local artists displaying and selling their creations. There will be original pastel and acrylic paintings, handmade jewelry, leather goods, note cards, pottery, driftwood paintings, hand painted apparel and more.

Terra Norro Winery will offer tastings of their exceptional quality NJ wine and sell wine by the bottle for your enjoyment while you shop, stroll and listen to our acoustic musician.

Mixed in during the 8-week series, there will be four free concerts by the Cape Shore Jazz Orchestra, and the John Walter Community Band.

The Arts & Music Series schedule is as follows:

July 17 - Sip, Shop & Stroll  (6 - 9 pm)
July 24 - Cape Shore Jazz Orchestra  (7 - 9 pm)
July 31 - John Walter Community Band  (7 - 9 pm)
August 7 - Sip, Shop & Stroll  (6 - 9 pm)
August 14 - Sip, Shop & Stroll  (6 - 9 pm)
August 21 - John Walter Community Band  (7 - 9 pm)
August 28 - Cape Shore Jazz Orchestra  (7 - 9 pm)
September 4 - Sip, Shop & Stroll  (6 - 9 pm)

FREE parking is available for all Byrne Plaza events!

Find the complete schedule of Downtown Wildwood events, as well as a listing of local hotels, restaurants, bars and shops, online at www.DOOWW.com and on Facebook at Wildwood by the Sea.

Come early and stay late...

There is always something to DOO in Downtown Wildwood!