The Wildwoods Celebrate the Induction of Bill Haley's Comets into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with an Awards Ceremony Thursday, August 23

  A Special Awards Ceremony for the Comets and Bill Haley, Jr. will take place at the Doo Wop Experience Museum in Wildwood at 3 p.m. 

PRESS RELEASE

The Wildwoods will celebrate the induction of Wildwood musical heroes Bill Haley's Comets into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with an Awards Ceremony on Thursday, August 23 at 3 p.m. at the Doo Wop Experience Museum, 4500 Ocean Avenue in Wildwood.

The Ceremony will begin with Doo Wop Preservation League board member and event organizer Paul Russo introducing the famous Comets and reading the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame official message that congratulates the Comets on their 2012 induction in to the Hall of Fame. The Wildwood Music 2012 Award will then be presented to special guest Bill Haley, Jr.; and a special announcement from the president of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Terry Stewart, will be read.

Bill Haley, Jr. will then unveil a commemorative Comets painting, which will remain on loan to the Doo Wop Experience Museum and available for public viewing for the remainder of this year.  Bill Haley, Sr. memorabilia will also be on hand for viewing during the ceremony.  The ceremony will conclude with a press conference, a "meet the public" session in the Doo Wop Experience Museum and a photo opportunity with the Comets and Haley, Jr.

Bill Haley and the Comets changed America's music scene forever in 1954 when they introduced the rock and roll anthem Rock Around the Clock at the Hofbrau at Oak and Atlantic Avenues here in the Wildwoods. "This is a great celebration of our famous resort and its musical heritage made famous by great entertainers like Bill Haley and the Comets," Paul Russo said. "It is exciting to have the Comets return to the Wildwoods for this official announcement of their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."

Who
Bill Haley’s Comets, Bill Haley Jr., Doo Wop Preservation League representatives and local officials

What
The Wildwoods will celebrate the induction of Wildwood musical legends, Bill Haley's Comets, into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with an Awards Ceremony

When
Thursday, August 23 at 3 p.m.

Where
The Doo Wop Experience Museum, 4500 Ocean Avenue in Wildwood

For additional information about this event call 609-729-2665 or visit www.doowopusa.org .

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

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About the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) was formed in 1993 to consolidate the tourism economy of its three founding municipalities: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood. The Wildwoods have won numerous travel and tourism awards, heralding the resort for its beaches, boardwalk and attractions. In 2010, the Wildwoods Doo Wop Architecture was named “One of the Top Ten Architectural Wonders in America” by AOL.com. The Wildwoods were also named among Smarter Travel’s Ten Best Beach Towns in America in 2010, as well as one of Sherman’s Travel’s “Top Ten American Boardwalks” for the second year in a row. In 2009, the Wildwoods were selected as one of Time.com’s “50 Authentic American Experiences.” The Wildwoods made the list of “15 Destinations on the Rise” for TripAdvisor in 2012. In addition, the Wildwoods were also voted “Best Town” in the 2009 and 2011 PHL-17 Philly Hot List, Jersey Shore Edition contest. The Wildwoods were also named “Best Beaches in New Jersey” in the 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Top Ten New Jersey Beaches public survey, sponsored by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium. Wildwoods’ beaches were also named “Best Beach for Family Vacations,” “Best Beach for Tourism,” “Best Beach for Events,” “Best Beach for Eco-Tourism” and “Best Beach for Day Trips” in the same surveys. The Tourism Authority operates the Wildwoods Convention Center and acts as the island’s destination marketing organization overseeing the development, research, planning, marketing, advertising, promotion, public and media relations encompassing the tourism, meeting and convention industry in the Wildwoods. Additionally, the Authority funds, assists with and hosts more than 180 annual special events to enhance the visitor experience and extend the tourism season, including the Thunder On The Sand Race Series, Family Nights On The Boardwalk, Friday Night Fireworks, the New Jersey State Barbeque Championships and Anglesea Blues Festival, Classic Car Shows, the International Kite Festival, Irish and Italian Festivals and the National Marbles Tournament, among others. For more information about the Wildwoods, contact the GWTIDA at 1-800-WW-By-Sea (800-992-9732) or visit its web site, www.WildwoodsNJ.com. 
 

YouTube Tuesday: Wildwood Pizza Tour 2012

In case you missed it, the results of the 6th Annual Wildwood Pizza Tour were announced yesterday.

One of the reasons we're big fans of this yearly endeavor is that it's about much more than sampling and eating pizza - it's about a group of friends who love the Wildwoods and display this passion in a very unique way.

With this in mind, let's join Chris, Brian, Frank, Mike, and Tim for the highlights of  their hijincks-filled tour of the Boardwalk on Friday, August 10th...

2012 Wildwood Pizza Tour results revealed

The results of the 5th Annual Wildwood Pizza Tour are in!

And the winner is... CLICK HERE

8th Annual Wildwood Block Party and Music Festival, featuring Chubby Checker, Celebrates the City of Wildwood’s Centennial Anniversary

PRESS RELEASE

Enjoy Labor Day Weekend in the Wildwoods with FREE family fun and music at the 8^th Annual Wildwood Block Party and Music Festival on Sunday, September 2.

The end-of-summer celebration will take place noon-10 p.m. at Fox Park, located on Ocean Avenue directly across from the Wildwoods Convention Center, and festivities will include games, crafts, food and merchandise vendors, FREE live music and much more.

The entertainment line-up will begin at noon, featuring Just in Time, Bitter Sweet, Jeremiah Hunter Band, Beatlemania, The Blue Notes, Charlie Gracie, 45 RPM, and The Trammps.

Chubby Checker – the man who introduced the still popular dance craze, “The Twist,” for the first time in the Wildwoods in 1960 at the Rainbow Club – will take the stage at 9 p.m. for a FREE performance. A fireworks extravaganza on the beach at Rio Grande Avenue will conclude the Centennial Celebration at 10 p.m.

Admission to the Wildwood Block Party and Music Festival is FREE.

For additional information about the 8^th Annual Wildwood Block Party and Music Festival, please call 609-522-2444.

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

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About the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) was formed in 1993 to consolidate the tourism economy of its three founding municipalities: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood. The Wildwoods have won numerous travel and tourism awards, heralding the resort for its beaches, boardwalk and attractions. In 2010, the Wildwoods Doo Wop Architecture was named “One of the Top Ten Architectural Wonders in America” by AOL.com. The Wildwoods were also named among Smarter Travel’s Ten Best Beach Towns in America in 2010, as well as one of Sherman’s Travel’s “Top Ten American Boardwalks” for the second year in a row. In 2009, the Wildwoods were selected as one of Time.com’s “50 Authentic American Experiences.” The Wildwoods made the list of “15 Destinations on the Rise” for TripAdvisor in 2012. In addition, the Wildwoods were also voted “Best Town” in the 2009 and 2011 PHL-17 Philly Hot List, Jersey Shore Edition contest. The Wildwoods were also named “Best Beaches in New Jersey” in the 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Top Ten New Jersey Beaches public survey, sponsored by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium. Wildwoods’ beaches were also named “Best Beach for Family Vacations,” “Best Beach for Tourism,” “Best Beach for Events,” “Best Beach for Eco-Tourism” and “Best Beach for Day Trips” in the same surveys. The Tourism Authority operates the Wildwoods Convention Center and acts as the island’s destination marketing organization overseeing the development, research, planning, marketing, advertising, promotion, public and media relations encompassing the tourism, meeting and convention industry in the Wildwoods. Additionally, the Authority funds, assists with and hosts more than 180 annual special events to enhance the visitor experience and extend the tourism season, including the Thunder On The Sand Race Series, Family Nights On The Boardwalk, Friday Night Fireworks, the New Jersey State Barbeque Championships and Anglesea Blues Festival, Classic Car Shows, the International Kite Festival, Irish and Italian Festivals and the National Marbles Tournament, among others. For more information about the Wildwoods, contact the GWTIDA at 1-800-WW-By-Sea (800-992-9732) or visit its web site, www.WildwoodsNJ.com.
 

Race volunteeers wanted for this Saturday's TRI / RUN

Volunteers are needed to help marshal the race course and other areas of the TRI / RUN in North Wildwood this Saturday, August 18th.

The Lunch With Lynch Foundation will receive $30 for every volunteer that signs up, with proceeds supporting the youth of our island.

Volunteers must report to the North Wildwood Recreation Center (9th & Central Aves.) by 6 a.m.

Each will receive a volunteer shirt and will be eligible to win a variety of prizes.

For more information and to sign up, visit http://www.lunchwithlynch.com/vol/.

200 volunteers are needed for Saturday. Though 6 a.m. is early, this is a wonderful opportunity to donate your time to a terrific cause, while helping make a great event even better!

Wildwoods Boardwalk Named one of “America’s Best Boardwalks” by Smarter Travel

The Wildwoods receive major tourism honor from travel website...

PRESS RELEASE

 The Wildwoods have received a major honor this month as the Wildwoods Boardwalk was named as one of “America’s Best Boardwalks” by Smarter Travel.

According to SmarterTravel.com, the nationally-recognized Wildwoods Boardwalk was included on the list for its “two miles of neon lights and thrills…  Adding to the back-in-time feel are the 1950s and '60s Do-Wop-era motels that surround the area with their Vegas-like signs and unusual, themed architecture

The Wildwoods’ beach-fronted boardwalk which offers more rides than Disneyland and is one of the kid-friendliest boardwalks in the country – complete with three amusement piers boasting over 100 rides and attractions, three beachfront water parks, arcades and carnival style games, and lots of great eateries offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional boardwalk fare like pizza, funnel cakes, curly fries, ice cream, salt water taffy and cotton.

Smarter Travel is one of the country’s leading websites for travel deals and destination advice for consumers.

Click here to view Smarter Travel’s  "America’s Best Boardwalks" list.

“It’s a tremendous honor to named one of America’s Best Boardwalks by Smarter Travel,” said John Siciliano, Executive Director for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority (GWTIDA). “This accolade, along with all of the other recognition we’ve received from renowned publications and websites over the past years, is a huge credit to all of our visitors, as well as each and every person that works tirelessly to continue making the Wildwoods Boardwalk one of the country’s most incredibly unique attractions.”

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

In addition to its award-winning boardwalk, the Wildwoods are also home to “New Jersey’s Best Beaches” as awarded by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium in 2012, 2011 and 2010, as well as over 180 festivals and events throughout the year, plus the country’s largest concentration of mid-century “Doo-Wop” architecture.

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

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About the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) was formed in 1993 to consolidate the tourism economy of its three founding municipalities: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood. The Wildwoods have won numerous travel and tourism awards, heralding the resort for its beaches, boardwalk and attractions. In 2010, the Wildwoods Doo Wop Architecture was named “One of the Top Ten Architectural Wonders in America” by AOL.com. The Wildwoods were also named among Smarter Travel’s Ten Best Beach Towns in America in 2010, as well as one of Sherman’s Travel’s “Top Ten American Boardwalks” for the second year in a row. In 2009, the Wildwoods were selected as one of Time.com’s “50 Authentic American Experiences.” In addition, the Wildwoods were also voted “Best Town” and “Best Beaches” in the 2009 WTXF-TV My Fox Philly Hot List, Jersey Shore Edition contest. The Wildwoods were also named “Best Beaches” in the 2008 and 2010 Top Ten New Jersey Beaches public survey, sponsored by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium. Wildwoods beaches were named “Best Beach for Family Vacations,” “Best Beach for Tourism,” “Best Beach for Eco-Tourism” and “Best Beach for Events” in the same survey. The Tourism Authority operates the Wildwoods Convention Center and acts as the island’s destination marketing organization overseeing the development, research, planning, marketing, advertising, promotion, public and media relations encompassing the tourism, meeting and convention industry in the Wildwoods. Additionally, the Authority funds, assists with and hosts more than 180 annual special events to enhance the visitor experience and extend the tourism season, including the Thunder On The Sand Race Series, Family Nights On The Boardwalk, Friday Night Fireworks, The New Jersey State Barbeque Championships and Anglesea Blues Festival, Classic Car Shows, the International Kite Festival, Irish and Italian Festivals and the National Marbles Tournament, among others. For more information on the Wildwoods, contact the GWTIDA at 1-800-WW-By-Sea (800-992-9732) or visit its web site, www.WildwoodsNJ.com. 

City of Wildwood Partners with GWTIDA and GWHMA to Produce Car and Truck Shows

PRESS RELEASE

The City of Wildwood is pleased to announce that it has partnered with the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) and the Greater Wildwood Hotel & Motel Association (GWHMA) to produce the Wildwood NJ Boardwalk Classic Car Show and Auction and the Beach Monster Mash Truck Races.

The Wildwood NJ Boardwalk Classic Car Show and Auction will take place Thursday, September 20 through Saturday, September 22; and the Beach Monster Mash Truck Races will take place Friday, September 28 through Sunday, September 30. These events bring thousands of visitors to the Wildwoods each year and are among the most anticipated events of the tourism season.

"I'm very happy to be able to team up with GWTIDA and the Hotel & Motel Association to deliver these very popular events," said Mayor Troiano. "The City of Wildwood appreciates the cooperation of all those involved with the planning process. We pooled our resources to make sure that these shows will go on as planned."

“The last thing we want to do is disappoint our visitors and fans of these events,” said John Siciliano, Executive Director of GWTIDA. “With the full commitment of the Greater Wildwood Hotel & Motel Association taking the lead on producing the events and with the full support of the City of Wildwood, we’re ensuring the annual Boardwalk Classic Car Show and Beach Monster Mash Truck Races take place as scheduled for our visitors to enjoy.”

For information regarding these events please contact the Greater Wildwood Hotel & Motel Association at www.Wildwoods.org, call 800-786-4546or 609-522-4546,or email info@wildwoods.org.

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

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About the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) was formed in 1993 to consolidate the tourism economy of its three founding municipalities: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood. The Wildwoods have won numerous travel and tourism awards, heralding the resort for its beaches, boardwalk and attractions. In 2010, the Wildwoods Doo Wop Architecture was named “One of the Top Ten Architectural Wonders in America” by AOL.com. The Wildwoods were also named among Smarter Travel’s Ten Best Beach Towns in America in 2010, as well as one of Sherman’s Travel’s “Top Ten American Boardwalks” for the second year in a row. In 2009, the Wildwoods were selected as one of Time.com’s “50 Authentic American Experiences.” The Wildwoods made the list of “15 Destinations on the Rise” for TripAdvisor in 2012. In addition, the Wildwoods were also voted “Best Town” in the 2009 and 2011 PHL-17 Philly Hot List, Jersey Shore Edition contest. The Wildwoods were also named “Best Beaches in New Jersey” in the 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Top Ten New Jersey Beaches public survey, sponsored by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium. Wildwoods’ beaches were also named “Best Beach for Family Vacations,” “Best Beach for Tourism,” “Best Beach for Events,” “Best Beach for Eco-Tourism” and “Best Beach for Day Trips” in the same surveys. The Tourism Authority operates the Wildwoods Convention Center and acts as the island’s destination marketing organization overseeing the development, research, planning, marketing, advertising, promotion, public and media relations encompassing the tourism, meeting and convention industry in the Wildwoods. Additionally, the Authority funds, assists with and hosts more than 180 annual special events to enhance the visitor experience and extend the tourism season, including the Thunder On The Sand Race Series, Family Nights On The Boardwalk, Friday Night Fireworks, the New Jersey State Barbeque Championships and Anglesea Blues Festival, Classic Car Shows, the International Kite Festival, Irish and Italian Festivals and the National Marbles Tournament, among others. For more information about the Wildwoods, contact the GWTIDA at 1-800-WW-By-Sea (800-992-9732) or visit its web site, www.WildwoodsNJ.com.

Wildwood Pizza Tour tonight - Follow along live on Twitter!

As I type this, the Wildwood Pizza Tour gang is holed up at its top secret headquarters in North Wildwood, no doubt practicing various methods of deep meditation, in prep for a long night.

Every year, the guys pick one night to embark on the ambitious task of sampling and reviewing a slice of pie at every "legitimate pizza place" on the Boardwalk.

The 2012 tour will begin on the North Wildwood end of the boards, at Little Nicky's.

For the first time, pizza tour founder Christopher Martin will be Tweeting live from the scene. You can follow along through the WPT website or interact with the gang at www.twitter.com/WildwoodPizza.

One interesting factor to watch out for tonight is the weather. With widespread showers and thunderstorms in the forecast for the evening, things could get interesting...

Past Pizza Tour Results

2011 - Winner:  Mack's Pizza

2010 - Winner:  Franconi's Pizza
2009 - Winner:  Santino's Pizza

Splash Zone "Halloween Spooktacular" to benefit Muscular Dystrophy Association

Our friends at Splash Zone Waterpark will be holding a "Halloween Spooktacular" on Friday (August 10th), from noon to 3 p.m.

Here are the details...


PRESS RELEASE

Halloween?  In August?!  That's right - we celebrate Christmas in July and Halloween in August.  It's what we do here in Wildwood, and we're doing it on Friday, August 10. We'll have trick-or-treating, free glitter tattoos and caricatures for the kids from noon to 3pm, and since it's Friday, the NJ Bird Man will be here putting on free exotic bird shows at 1:00 and 3:00!

Something else we do here in Wildwood is to reach out to local charities to help however we can.  To that end, I'm getting locked up next week as part of the 2012 Cape May/Wildwood Exec Lock-Up and I need your help to raise some bail money!  

Three ways to help! Option 1:  The best way to help is to join us on Friday, August 10.  Print out and present this email (or at least the coupon below) when purchasing your admissions, and 100% of your admission price will go towards helping kids with Muscular Dystrophy! Option 2:  We know that not everyone who wants to help can make it on Friday.  That's OK, we all have busy schedules so we understand.  But don't let that stop you from helping out:  purchase Splash Zone admissions on our website between now and August 15, and if you use the referral code "MDA" while checking out, we'll donate 20%.  The best part: you can use your tickets anytime! Option 3:  Can't make it to the water park?  Not to worry, you can make a donation directly to help get me out of Lock Up.  (Please do it soon - I've got a wife and baby to take care of!)
I couldn't possibly express how grateful we'd be for any and all help you can give us.  Your donations will go a long way towards helping some very deserving children.  Please remember to print out the coupon below and bring with with you, or please donate online.  Help us make a difference. Sincerely, Will Knapp Splash Zone Water Park

Update on Fall motorsports events

Rumors and speculation continue to swirl about the status of Wildwood's motor sports events scheduled for late September and early October.

While there is nothing official to report yet, here's what we've learned...

Members of the Hotel/Motel Association met yesterday with Mayor Ernie Troiano and city commissioners at City Hall to try to work out a solution. The Wildwood BID and the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce have also extended their support to the events.

Meetings will likely continue today, and an announcement of some sort is expected to be made very soon.

The objective is to ensure that three major events - The Boardwalk Classic Car Show (Sept. 20-23), Thunder on the Beach Monster Truck Competition (Sept. 28-30), and Thunder in the Sand Motocross) go on as planned.

As previously reported, New Jersey Thunder Motorsports (ThunderMoto), the Sewell-based company that had been running Wildwood's motor sports events, announced on Tuesday that it was cancelling the aforementioned events "due to the differences between the corporation and the City of Wildwood and other circumstances."

Harlem Globetrotters announce additional skills clinic, finalize roster for Wildwood games

The Harlem Globetrotters are set to take over the Wildwoods Convention Center with two skills clinics and four games starting Wednesday, August 8 through Saturday, August 11.

Due to popular demand, the Globetrotters have added a second skills clinic to their four-day schedule. In addition  to the one already scheduled for Wednesday, August 8 from 10 a.m.- noon, a second  two-hour Skills Clinic will take place at the Wildwoods Convention Center Thursday, August 9 from 10 a.m.-noon.

Led by Globetrotters players before they take the court at the Wildwoods Convention Center for four games from Wednesday, August 8 through Saturday, August 11, the clinics are designed to take fans ages 6-14 behind the magic of the Globetrotters’ skills and learn about the importance of staying active and eating healthy. Participants in the clinic do not need prior basketball experience.

A limited number of spots for the Skills Clinic priced as $49.99, which includes the clinic and a voucher to exchange for a free ticket to the game of your choice, are available now via ticketmaster.com, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Wildwoods Convention Center Box Office.

Tickets to the games starting at $19 are on sale now via ticketmaster.com, calling 800-745-3000, or at the Wildwoods Convention Center Box Office.

The player roster for the Globetrotters’ Wildwoods appearance has also been announced. Stars scheduled to appear in the four Wildwood games include:

• Big Easy Lofton – Globetrotters Showman and two-time competitor on “The Amazing Race”
• Flight Time Lang – amazing dribbler and two-time competitor on “The Amazing Race”
• TNT Maddox – first female Globetrotter since 1993 and graduate of Temple University
• Stretch Middleton – third tallest Globetrotter in history at 7-4
• Too Tall Hall – shortest Globetrotter in history at 5-2
• Jet Williams – 2011 College Slam Dunk runner up
• Hi-Lite Bruton – first played with the Chicago Bulls before joining the Globetrotters
• Hammer Harrison – versatile player known for his ball handing and his dunking
• Flip Atkins – amazing leaping ability at only 5-9 and former Jesse White Tumbler

Rosters are subject to change.

The full schedule taking place at the Wildwoods Convention Center is as follows:

• Wednesday, August 8 at 10 a.m. – 2-hour Skills Clinic
• Wednesday, August 8 at 7 p.m. – Game
• Thursday, August 9 at 10 a.m. – 2-hour Skills Clinic – NEWLY ADDED
• Thursday, August 9 at 7 p.m. – Game
• Friday, August 10 at 7 p.m. – Game
• Saturday, August 11 at 7 p.m. – Game

Sponsored by Howard Johnson Hotels, Greyhound Lines, Spalding, and Russell Athletic, the Original Harlem Globetrotters are celebrating their 86^th consecutive year, continuing a world famous tradition of ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that continues to thrill fans of all ages.

Throughout their history, the Globetrotters have showcased their iconic talents in 120 countries and territories on six continents, often breaking down cultural and societal barriers while providing fans with their first-ever basketball experience. Proud inductees of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the Globetrotters have entertained hundreds of millions of fans—among them popes, kings, queens, and presidents—over more than eight thrilling decades.

For the latest news and information about the Harlem Globetrotters, and to purchase tickets and team merchandise, visit the Globetrotters’ official Web site: www.harlemglobetrotters.com.

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

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About the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) was formed in 1993 to consolidate the tourism economy of its three founding municipalities: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood. The Wildwoods have won numerous travel and tourism awards, heralding the resort for its beaches, boardwalk and attractions. In 2010, the Wildwoods Doo Wop Architecture was named “One of the Top Ten Architectural Wonders in America” by AOL.com. The Wildwoods were also named among Smarter Travel’s Ten Best Beach Towns in America in 2010, as well as one of Sherman’s Travel’s “Top Ten American Boardwalks” for the second year in a row. In 2009, the Wildwoods were selected as one of Time.com’s “50 Authentic American Experiences.” The Wildwoods made the list of “15 Destinations on the Rise” for TripAdvisor in 2012. In addition, the Wildwoods were also voted “Best Town” in the 2009 and 2011 PHL-17 Philly Hot List, Jersey Shore Edition contest. The Wildwoods were also named “Best Beaches in New Jersey” in the 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Top Ten New Jersey Beaches public survey, sponsored by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium. Wildwoods’ beaches were also named “Best Beach for Family Vacations,” “Best Beach for Tourism,” “Best Beach for Events,” “Best Beach for Eco-Tourism” and “Best Beach for Day Trips” in the same surveys. The Tourism Authority operates the Wildwoods Convention Center and acts as the island’s destination marketing organization overseeing the development, research, planning, marketing, advertising, promotion, public and media relations encompassing the tourism, meeting and convention industry in the Wildwoods. Additionally, the Authority funds, assists with and hosts more than 180 annual special events to enhance the visitor experience and extend the tourism season, including the Thunder On The Sand Race Series, Family Nights On The Boardwalk, Friday Night Fireworks, the New Jersey State Barbeque Championships and Anglesea Blues Festival, Classic Car Shows, the International Kite Festival, Irish and Italian Festivals and the National Marbles Tournament, among others. For more information about the Wildwoods, contact the GWTIDA at 1-800-WW-By-Sea (800-992-9732) or visit its web site, www.WildwoodsNJ.com.

EVENT RESCHEDULED: Wildwoods' 103rd Baby Parade Rescheduled to tomorrow (Thursday, August 2)

The 103^rd Wildwoods Baby Parade, originally scheduled to take place on Wednesday, August 1, has been postponed due to inclement weather and rescheduled to Thursday, August 2 at 6 p.m.

Registration will take place from 4:30 p.m.-5:15 p.m. on Thursday, August 2 at the Wildwoods Convention Center, located at Burk Avenue and the Boardwalk in Wildwood, and line-up will commence on the boardwalk just outside the Convention Center at 5:30 p.m.

The parade will step off promptly at 6 p.m. and proceed north on the world-famous Wildwoods Boardwalk to 16^th Street in North Wildwood – where awards and prizes will be given.

Admission to and participation in the baby parade is FREE.

For additional information, please contact Tracey DuFault of the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce at 609-729-4000 or by email at tdufault@gwcoc.org.

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

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About the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority

The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) was formed in 1993 to consolidate the tourism economy of its three founding municipalities: Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and North Wildwood. The Wildwoods have won numerous travel and tourism awards, heralding the resort for its beaches, boardwalk and attractions. In 2010, the Wildwoods Doo Wop Architecture was named “One of the Top Ten Architectural Wonders in America” by AOL.com. The Wildwoods were also named among Smarter Travel’s Ten Best Beach Towns in America in 2010, as well as one of Sherman’s Travel’s “Top Ten American Boardwalks” for the second year in a row. In 2009, the Wildwoods were selected as one of Time.com’s “50 Authentic American Experiences.” The Wildwoods made the list of “15 Destinations on the Rise” for TripAdvisor in 2012. In addition, the Wildwoods were also voted “Best Town” in the 2009 and 2011 PHL-17 Philly Hot List, Jersey Shore Edition contest. The Wildwoods were also named “Best Beaches in New Jersey” in the 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Top Ten New Jersey Beaches public survey, sponsored by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium. Wildwoods’ beaches were also named “Best Beach for Family Vacations,” “Best Beach for Tourism,” “Best Beach for Events,” “Best Beach for Eco-Tourism” and “Best Beach for Day Trips” in the same surveys. The Tourism Authority operates the Wildwoods Convention Center and acts as the island’s destination marketing organization overseeing the development, research, planning, marketing, advertising, promotion, public and media relations encompassing the tourism, meeting and convention industry in the Wildwoods. Additionally, the Authority funds, assists with and hosts more than 180 annual special events to enhance the visitor experience and extend the tourism season, including the Thunder On The Sand Race Series, Family Nights On The Boardwalk, Friday Night Fireworks, the New Jersey State Barbeque Championships and Anglesea Blues Festival, Classic Car Shows, the International Kite Festival, Irish and Italian Festivals and the National Marbles Tournament, among others. For more information about the Wildwoods, contact the GWTIDA at 1-800-WW-By-Sea (800-992-9732) or visit its web site, www.WildwoodsNJ.com.

Cattle 'n Clover to hold official grand opening celebration on Wednesday, August 1st

 Downtown Wildwood to Hold Official Grand Opening Celebration
for Cattle ‘n Clover Restaurant August 1

The Wildwoods, NJ, July 30, 2012 – The Wildwood Business Improvement District (WBID) announced that Cattle 'n Clover, one of Downtown Wildwood’s newest restaurants, will celebrate their Official Grand Opening on Wednesday, August  1 at noon.

The celebration will take place at the restaurant, located at 3817 Pacific Avenue in the heart of Downtown Wildwood on what is now being referred to as Restaurant Row.

Owner John Sheppard, representatives from the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce, the local business community and dignitaries are expected to attend. The general public is also welcome to join the celebration.

For more information visit www.cattlenclover.com, call 609-522-3800 or email jaimie@cattlenclover.com. 

About the Wildwood Business Improvement District

The Wildwood Business Improvement District (WBID) is a self-governing corporation that provides services to the Wildwood Business District through a self-imposed assessment. Their Board of Directors is elected by the businesses to oversee the annual report and budget. The WBID Board also works closely with the Wildwood Boardwalk Special Improvement District (WBSID) and Management Corporation for professional management services. The WBID works with the city to improve existing services to the district and provide additional enhancements and focus. Funding is created through an annual assessment on property in the district, collected by the city, but transferred and controlled by the BID. For more information about the WBID please visit www.dowildwood.com or call 609-523-1602.

Homeowners Association of Ocean Towers sets "peaceful demonstration" against RV beach park for Saturday

The establishment of an RV parking area on the beach between Hand and Leaming Avenues remains a hot button topic on the island.

Today, the Homeowners Association of Ocean Towers released a statement furthering its opposition to the idea, while also announcing a rally to voice collective and individual concerns on Saturday.

Here's the press release in its entirety...

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RV parking on the beach? How could that be a good thing? Join us in a peaceful demonstration, Sat., July 28, 2012 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Meet at Ocean and Bennett Avenues.

The owners of Ocean Towers, located at the "beginning" of Wildwood's famous boardwalk, have been officially notified for months about the development. Due to a "distance" requirement in the law, no other home owners in Wildwood needed to be notified.

The Homeowners Association of Ocean Towers, upon receiving this notice, reached out to The Wildwood Commissioners, City Engineers & Mayors office and the NJ Department of Environmental Protection in the last couple of months with no results.

As this issue has developed, and living in this age of "environmental awareness," the home owners and vacationers of Ocean Towers decided to reach out to all those it effects, especially those home owners & vacationers that use the beaches. We've all gone for "walks on our beaches"; could an RV Park be a good thing on the beach?

We recognize the City needs revenue solutions. This economy plays an issue in all our lives. We want to support and encourage all our city elected officials to develop and grow the Wildwoods for our future family generations to know the "best beaches in the world."

Convention Center to unveil rooftop solar array today

The Wildwoods Convention Center will be hosting a media event at 11 a.m. today to unveil the completion of a solar energy installation at the facility.

Wildwood 365 will be on hand, and will be reporting from the scene.

Comprising 1,694 solar panels, the solar electric system will provide 24 percent of the venue’s overall energy usage and reduce the convention center’s carbon footprint by 179 tons annually.

The 474 kW system was developed by Tioga Energy of San Francisco and constructed by Pro-Tech Energy Solutions of New Jersey. The project was financed by Energy Finance Company (EFC). The final result is a greener, cleaner venue that will benefit the Wildwoods Convention Center’s employees, patrons and the environment.