"Christmas in July" gift recommendations

It's never too early to start thinking about that holiday shopping list, especially with Christmas being only five months away.

Below are some of our favorite Wildwood-related items released in 2010.

Whether you're looking for that perfect gift, or new additions to your own collection, each of the following carries our highest recommendation.

If you  have any further suggestions to add to our list, we'd love to hear about them. Drop us a line anytime at wildwood365@gmail.com.





Wildwood-By-the-Sea: Nostalgia & Memories 
by Anita Hirsch  (Book)

Avid readers of the Sun-by-the-Sea newspaper over the years have become familiar with one of its most popular features - "Wildwood Nostalgia &  Recipes," by Anita Hirsch.

The column focuses on various Wildwood landmarks, with historical info, nostalgic recollections, and a unique recipe provided by someone associated with the institution.

Now, Anita has collected her works and many others never before published in the great new book, from Holly Beach Press.

The book is jam-packed with stories and over 250 photos of treasured Wildwood memories.

Copies are now available at the George F. Boyer Museum on Pacific Avenue in downtown Wildwood, or online at A Taste of Wildwood.

Cost is $19.95 (plus S&H if ordering online).


Murder Behind The Closet Door
by Christopher Pinto  (Book)

You can't beat a good detective story, right?

How about one set in the Wildwood of the late-1970s, with familiar landmarks and nostalgia setting the background for a tale of murder, mystery, and the paranormal?

Christopher Pinto's new novel has all of the above, and a whole lot more.

The story centers around Heather, a young woman just about to begin a career as a marketing executive at an amusement pier on the Boardwalk, and the strange happenings that begin after she moves into a 70-year-old rooming house.

We won't give anything else away, except that the story is filled with many twists, turns, and surprises. It's a great read for Wildwood/Jersey Shore enthusiasts, those interested in the paranormal, or anyone just looking for a great story.

To order a copy, Click HERE. Also, check out the book's Facebook fanpage for more information, excerpts, and updates.


Philly Cuzz and The Pirates of Doo Wop Lagoon: A Tale of the Jersey Devil  (CD)

Nearly a decade ago, Phil Battaglia - aka "Philly Cuzz" - bottled the essence of the South Jersey Shore and the shoobie experience with his signature album, On The Way To Cape May.

The set featured a variety of Doo Wop-inspired classics and original tunes in the best summertime party tradition.

Musically, Battagilia's newest CD stays true to form; but, as is evident from its title alone, Philly Cuzz and The Pirates of Doo Wop Lagoon: A Tale of the Jersey Devil occupies a category of its very own.

A three-disk release, "Pirates" is an audio book musical, with the "story" told on the first two disks and the "soundtrack" featured on the third.

The album is now available for sale through the official Philly Cuzz website. Audio samples from each disk are now up!

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

Each of the above items has our highest recommendation.

Also, be sure to check out the Winterwood Gift & Christmas Shoppe at 4020 Ocean Avenue in Wildwood (in addition to stores in Cape May and Rio Grande) for a wide variety of Christmas collectibles, gifts, and novelties.

Only 152 days to go. Get to shoppin', people!