Grand Opening Events Planned at Morey’s Piers

PRESS RELEASE

Morey’s Piers Celebrates River Adventure with a Cardboard Boat Regatta

and Opens WipeOut! with a Race for Charity

The Wildwoods, NJ – June 4, 2012 – To showcase TWO new waterpark attractions, Morey’s Piers will kick off Summer 2012 with two unique grand opening events.

On Thursday, June 14, Morey’s Piers will celebrate WipeOut!, a new six-lane racer slide at Ocean Oasis, with the 1^st Annual WipeOut! Racing Event.

The event will consist of several heats featuring Season Pass Members and Facebook Fans competing for passes and prizes – all culminating in a race pitting local celebrities against Will and Jack Morey to win a grand prize of $5,000 for the charity of the winner’s choice.

The races will begin at 3 p.m. on Thursday, June 14.

Immediately following the WipeOut! Races, Morey’s Piers will celebrate the opening of River Adventure at Raging Waters with the River Adventure Cardboard Boat Race. Up to 20 participants will race homemade cardboard boats in River Adventure for a chance to win a grand prize of two season passes and Morey’s Piers memorabilia. The race will begin at 5:30pm on Thursday, June 14.

For more information, please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call 609-522-3900.

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About Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers, located on the boardwalk in the Wildwoods, New Jersey is a classic seaside amusement park, family owned and operated since 1969. Voted the second best seaside amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers has over 100 rides and attractions spanning over eighteen acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Convenient to the major population centers of the Northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Visit them at Surfside Pier, featuring the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club at 25th Avenue, Mariner’s Landing Pier, featuring Raging Waters Waterpark at Schellenger Avenue, and Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com or phone (609) 522-3900.

Cape May County Zoo named #3 in the nation by TripAdvisor

In surprising - but very welcome - news, TripAdvisor has announced its list of the top 10 zoos in the country, with the Cape May County Park & Zoo coming in at number three!

Our local zoo finished behind only the Henry Doorly Zoo in Nebraska and the St. Louis Zoo in Missouri.

Opened in 1978, the county zoo is located in Cape May Court House, just outside the Wildwoods on the mainland. Open year round, the zoo and park covers approximately 220 acres. It is one of South Jersey's most-visited attractions, featuring about 550 animals (250 different species).

The zoo is currently operating on summer hours, open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Admission is always free, thoug donations are encouraged.

TripAdisor's entry on the Cape May Zoo:

Situated on the southern Jersey Shore, this wildlife sanctuary showcases more than 250 species of animals. Travelers can acquaint themselves with a bevy of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and furry friends – and, when not gawking at quadrupeds, can wander through one of the lush nature trails, or hop on the train and carousel rides. A TripAdvisor traveler noted, “If you and your family like to see animals treated in a fair and humane way and enjoy a wonderful park setting, the Cape May County Park and Zoo is the place to go.”

Downtown Wildwood to Host the Inaugural Ryan Patterson Motocross Foundation Benefit

PRESS RELEASE

On Saturday, June 2nd, Downtown Wildwood will host the inaugural Ryan Patterson Motocross Foundation Benefit with a Pacific Avenue block party starting at 7:30 p.m.

The block party will be held between Lincoln and Spicer Avenues by a group of restaurants - some of them new to the Downtown area - that are being touted as Restaurant Row - the new must-see locale of Downtown.

The Wildwood Business Improvement District (WBID), along with Pacific Avenue Block Party, the Ryan Patterson Motocross Foundation, and Thundermoto Sports will sponsor the event that includes fun for everyone: live entertainment, pong tournament, eating contest, dunk tank, corn hole, and a raffle.

Event proceeds benefit the Ryan Patterson Motocross Foundation, formed in memory of the avid motocross racer and southern New Jersey native Ryan Patterson - the Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by siblings Mark and Michele Patterson to keep their brother's passion alive on the track by helping the kids of motocross.

The Foundation's mission is to inspire, teach, and provide confidence to the young MX-ers that have a passion for the sport of motocross, so that it is possible for their dreams of racing on the track to become a reality.

Music by Hydeaway will fill the block on Pacific Avenue from 8 p.m. - 12 midnight. The Jack Daniels Girls will be adding to the excitement with specials and giveaways.

For more information, please call 609-729-6500 or email jaimie@cattlenclover.com.

For more information about the Wildwood Business Improvement District, please visit dowildwood.com, or call 609-523-1602.

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About the Wildwood Business Improvement District

The Wildwood Business Improvement District (WBID) is a self-governing corporation that provides services to the Wildwod 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.

Philadelphia’s Mummers Strut Back to the Wildwoods June 8-9 for 18th Annual Mummers Brigade Weekend

PRESS RELEASE

This June marks the 18th anniversary of Mummers Brigade Weekend in the Wildwoods. It’s sure to be a fun celebration to remember for Mummers fans Friday, June 8 and Saturday, June 9.

The excitement kicks off Friday night, June 8 at 7 p.m., with the annual Mummers Pub Crawl. Mummers members and friends will celebrate the brigade’s return to the Wildwoods by visiting some of North Wildwood’s most well-known establishments.

The fun continues on Saturday, June 9, with a block party on Olde New Jersey Avenue from 3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. The Mummers Parade will step off on 2nd and Olde New Jersey Avenues in North Wildwood at 4:45 p.m. and will feature ten brigades from this year’s New Year’s Day Parade in Philadelphia, PA.

Those brigades include Satin Slipper Fancy Brigade, The Shooters, Clevemore, Avenuers, Saturnalian, Downtowners, Golden Crown, The Jokers, Shooting Stars, and South Philly Vikings. The brigades will perform without the pressure of competition, and spectators will be able to get up-close views of the beautiful costumes and intricate dance steps these eccentric performers display.

Best of all, the parade is FREE to attend, so come on out and strut your stuff at the Annual Mummers Brigade Weekend in the Wildwoods. Save the date for the upcoming Mummers String Band Saturday on September 8, 2012, in the Wildwoods.

For additional information about these Mummers events, please call 609-374-0562 or visit www.NorthWildwood.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 and 2011 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. Wildwood was also named “Best Beach” in 2012 by NJ Monthly and “Number One Boardwalk for Families” in 2012 by FamilyVacationCritic.com. 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.

Celebration of Heroes Festival concludes today, highlighted by USO-style variety show

The Wildwoods' inaugural Celebration of Heroes Festival wraps up today, with what is sure to be a bang!

The highlight of the Memorial Day Weekend events will be a USO-style variety show at the Wildwoods Convention Center at 8 p.m.

Hosted by Saturday Night Live alumnist Joe Piscopo, the headliner concert will feature Grammy Award winner Lee Greenwood, Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler, Michael Longoria (original cast member of the Broadway hit The Jersey Boys) and American Idol finalists Michael Sarver and Haley Scarnato.

Tickets start at $25 and are available through Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com. Visit http://www.wildwoodsnj.com/heroes for detailed information and schedule of events, or call 609-729-9000 or 800-992-9732.

Here is a list of today's Celebration of Heroes events:

• The “Taste of Wildwoods” Food & Music Festival - Saturday, May 26, Noon – 9pm and Sunday, May 27, 11 a.m. – 3pm at Fox Park featuring the sights, sounds and flavors of many of the Wildwoods’ famous festivals. Plus live music performances and radio appearances.
• Celebration of Heroes’ Military Procession & Remembrance Ceremony - A Memorial Day procession of military service heroes, Veterans, celebrities and marching bands, including the Coast Guard Recruit Marching Band. Procession ends at the Wildwoods Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall (Columbus Park) where the Heroes Remembrance Ceremony and Air Force and Coast Guard “Fly Over” will take place following the procession (Sunday, May 27, 1pm)
• Celebration of Heroes Headliner Concert - A USO-style Variety Show - Starring former SNL star Joe Piscopo and his 17-piece Orchestra; Mr. Proud To Be An American himself, Grammy Winner Lee Greenwood; Michael Longoria, original cast member (Frankie Valli) of the hit Broadway Show The Jersey Boys; Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler; and American Idol finalists Michael Sarver and Haley Scarnato at the Wildwoods Convention Center’s Oceanfront Arena. (Sunday, May 27, 8 PM)

The Wildwoods Officially Kick off the 2012 Summer Season

L to R: Wildwood Middle School Students on far left and right join Harlem Globetrotter Blenda Rodriguez; John Siciliano, Executive Director, Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority; Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler; Phyllis Oppenheimer, N.J. Office of Travel & Tourism; North Wildwood Mayor Bill Henfey; Captain William G. Kelly, Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Training Center, Cape May, NJ; Wildwood Crest Deputy Mayor Joyce Gould; Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano

PRESS RELEASE

Miss America Laura Kaeppeler and Harlem Globetrotters’ Blenda Rodriquez highlighted the official Unlocking of the Ocean ceremony today.

A host of local dignitaries were on hand with a large key to ‘unlock’ the ocean and officially begin the summer season. The Wildwood High School Band performed summer hits like “Wipeout” during the ceremony attended by mayors and other officials from the Wildwoods.

Seventh and eighth grade students from Wildwood Middle School and second and fourth grade students from Glenwood Avenue School also joined the festivities. Speeches at the ceremony focused on the true reason for the holiday – remembering veterans, first responders and servicemen and women as the first annual Celebration of Heroes Festival kicked off at the Wildwoods Convention Center.

The Unlocking of the Ocean event took place under elaborate kites soaring above, as the 27th Annual Wildwoods International Kite Festival began flying today and will continue through the weekend.

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 and 2011 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.

Wildwoods retain "Top Beach" title!

For the third year in a row and the fourth time in five years, the Wildwoods have finished #1 in the New Jersey Top 10 Beaches survey.

The results of the voting were announced earlier today at the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium's annual State of the Shore Media Event.

Ocean City (the 2009 winner) took second place after slipping to third place last year. Sea Isle City and Cape May took fourth and sixth place, respectively, giving Cape May County four of the top 10 spots.

The Wildwoods also pulled off a clean sweep in individual category voting for the second straight year, being named the destination for "Best Family Vacation" and "Best Day Trip," while also earning the nod for "Best Ecotourism."

Overall, 48 shore communities were represented in the poll, from Sandy Hook down to Cape May.

Kathy Orr Kicks Off 10th Anniversary Season at the Shore

PRESS RELEASE

Now in CBS 3’s 10th season at the shore, Meteorologist Kathy Orr continues to showcase the best of summer with her popular series, “Orr at the Shore,” live from Morey’s Piers in Wildwood, New Jersey.

This season’s “Orr at the Shore” will debut on CBS 3’s 5 p.m. edition of Eyewitness News and air each Thursday before Labor Day in the 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts.

The CBS 3 Mobile Weather Lab, the station’s state-of-the-art weather station on wheels, will join Orr on some of her live telecasts.

Orr will be broadcasting live from a different local shore point each week forecasting the weather, featuring local attractions and covering environmental issues. In 2005, the series was honored with a New Jersey Governor’s Tourism Award, given to regional organizations and events that highlight New Jersey as a world-class destination.

“Orr at the Shore” is sponsored by Morey's Piers & Beachfront Waterparks in Wildwood, New Jersey and Wawa. CBS 3 (KYW-TV) is part of CBS Television Stations, a division of CBS Corporation.

The Wildwoods’ 2012 Summer Season kicks off with a Jam-Packed Memorial Day Weekend Schedule

The Weekend from Friday, May 25 – Memorial Day Monday, May 28 is packed with festivities to welcome 2012 summer – and events honoring our military heroes

The Wildwoods, NJ – May 18, 2012  – The arrival of Memorial Day Weekend means four jam-packed days of fun and festivities in the Wildwoods with celebrations, events, and this year, highlighted by elaborate tributes to all of those whom Memorial Day is meant to honor.

Official Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony: It all kicks off on Friday, May 25 with the annual Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony at 12:30 p.m., on the beach at Burk Avenue next to the Wildwoods Convention Center. Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler, Harlem Globetrotter Blenda Rodriguez and New Jersey Executive Director of Travel and Tourism Grace Hanlon will join state, county and local officials in kicking off the 2012 summer season.

 Also joining the ceremony will be Captain Kelly (USCG) and Lt. Commander Scott Rea (USCG), who will be in the Wildwoods for the Coast Guard Recruit Graduation. This impressive and emotional military ceremony will be open to the public at the Wildwoods Convention Center Friday, May 25, at 11 a.m.

Wildwoods’ International Kite Festival: The Wildwoods’ International Kite Festival, the largest kite festival in North America, takes place starting Friday, May 25 through Monday, May 28 on the Rio Grande Avenue Beach. It begins with a night-time illuminated kite fly at 9 p.m. on Friday. The East Coast Stunt Kite Championships take place all day Saturday and Sunday on the beach, as well as kite exhibitions and workshops. The Festival ends Monday in the Wildwoods’ Convention Center with a choreographed indoor kite fly, free to spectators.

Celebration of Heroes Festival:  The highlight of the Memorial Day weekend is the premier of the Celebration of Heroes Festival. This three-day festival focuses on the holiday’s true meaning by paying tribute to our veterans, military and first responders, who are being offered discounts and specials at hotels, restaurants and amusements. All weekend long, military families can get in touch with their loved ones at the Xfinity Interactive Center via satellite through Skype and text message centers, or send postcards through a mass mail-call courtesy of The National Constitution Center. 

The Festival kicks off Friday morning with the Coast Guard Graduation Ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Wildwoods Convention Center, and continues Friday evening at 7 p.m. with a Veterans Motorcycle Caravan comprised of cycle enthusiast representing Tri-State area veterans motorcycle clubs who will form a dramatic ‘drive-up’ caravan, leading to a moving flag-planting ceremony and memorial sunset ceremony at Burk Avenue and the Boardwalk. More than 100 Coast Guardsmen will commemorate the service and sacrifice of all military members including a firing party, a color guard and a bugler. The day’s events culminate with a 10 p.m. free Fireworks Show.

The Celebration of Heroes continues on Saturday, May 26 with the Ford Family Beach Games from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on the beach at Wildwood Avenue featuring fun, action-packed beach games including family soccer matches, softball, frisbee throw, treasure hunt and obstacle course action all day.

Saturday’s fun continues with the “Taste of Wildwoods” Food & Music Festival at Fox Park from noon-9 p.m. and on Sunday, May 27, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.   Food and merchandise vendors, military displays, the Ford Experience Exhibit, live music performances and radio station broadcasts will be present. There will also be autograph sessions with former NFL Eagle, Vince Papale and Philadelphia Flyer, Bernie Parent from 1pm - 3pm in Fox Park and a special performance of the “Cheesteak Anthem“by none other than Philadelphia Cheesteak King, Tony Luke, Jr.

“Foodies” who like to live on the edge will be especially interested in the Dangerous Wines attraction at this Festival.  Stop by and try some Dangerous Nutz, Dangerous Crab Cakes and Dangerous Wine samplings. Their Dangerous Chef will be doing demos every 2 hours starting at noon each day; and Russ Newberry from the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch” will appear at the Dangerous booth area each day to sign autographs and share crabbing stories. Proceeds from Dangerous Wines sales go to help wounded troops.

 The Celebration of Heroes’ Military Procession & Remembrance Ceremony will take place on Sunday, May 27 at 1 p.m., a procession of military service heroes, Veterans, celebrities and the Coast Guard Recruit Marching Band. The Procession ends at the Wildwoods Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall (Columbus Park across from the Wildwoods Convention Center) where the solemn Heroes Remembrance Ceremony and Air Force and Coast Guard “Fly Overs” will take place.

On Sunday at 8 p.m. the Wildwoods Convention Center’s Oceanfront Arena will host the culminating event of Celebration of Heroes Memorial Day Weekend Beach Festival: the Wildwoods Celebration of Heroes (COH) Benefit Concert, a compelling homage to the immensely popular USO Variety Show concerts hosted for decades by legendary comedian, U.S. military supporter and humanitarian Bob Hope.

The Wildwoods’ COH Benefit Concert performers scheduled to appear include Saturday Night Live star alum Joe Piscopo with Musical Director Joe Muccioli and his all-star 17 piece jazz orchestra; Grammy Winner Lee Greenwood; Michael Longoria, original cast member (Frankie Valli) of the hit Broadway Show The Jersey Boys; Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler; and American Idol finalists Michael Sarver and Haley Scarnato.

 Tickets start at $25 and are available through Ticketmaster at 800.745.3000, online at www.ticketmaster.com or the Convention Center Box Office.

Memorial Day Ceremony: A Memorial Day Ceremony will take place on Monday, May 28 at Veterans Monument, 1st and New York Avenues, North Wildwood at 10 a.m. The event then moves to American Legion Post 184, 4200 Atlantic Ave., where a wreath laying ceremony at Post 184, a memorial walk and the Police Explorer troop wreath laying in the ocean behind the Wildwoods Convention Center at Burk Avenue will take place at 11 a.m.

And there’s more …

Here’s the complete list of all of the Wildwoods’ Memorial Day 2012 Schedule of Festivities:

 May 25 - Coast Guard Recruit Graduation at the Wildwoods Convention Center (11 a.m.)
 May 25 – Unlocking of the Ocean Media Day Event (12:30 p.m.)
 May 25 – 28 – Wildwoods International Kite Festival
 May 25 – 27 – Celebration of Heroes Festival :
 ~Motorcycle Caravan and Sunset Ceremony at Burk Avenue (Friday, 7 p.m.)
 ~Free Fireworks Show (Friday, 10 p.m. on the beach at Poplar Avenue)
 ~Ford Family Beach Games (Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
 ~“Taste of Wildwoods” Food & Music Festival at Fox Park (Saturday, noon-9 p.m. & Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
 ~Celebration of Heroes’ Military Procession & Remembrance Ceremony (Sunday, 1 p.m.)
 ~ Wildwoods Celebration of Heroes Benefit Concert (Sunday, 8 p.m.)
 May 26 – Boardwalk Craft Show
 May 26 – New Jersey State Gymnastics Championships
 May 27 – Wildwood Crest Summer Kickoff Concert
 May 28 – Memorial Day Ceremony starting at Veterans Monument

*Please note that the information and dates above are subject to change.

In addition to the events above, the Wildwoods’ also host a FREE Summer Concert Series featuring the region’s top acts and some of the most entertaining FREE live entertainment to be found at the Jersey shore in 2012. Taking place at venues throughout the five-mile island including North Wildwood’s Lou Booth Amphitheatre, concerts on the beach in Wildwood and the Centennial Park Amphitheatre in Wildwood Crest – musical stylings for the concerts range from Doo-Wop and rock ‘n roll to Motown and tribute bands.

All of these concerts are FREE and take place almost every night of the week throughout the summer months.

 For more information about summertime events and concerts in the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 1-800-992-9732.

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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 and 2011 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. Wildwood was also named “Best Beach” in 2012 by NJ Monthly and “Number One Boardwalk for Families” in 2012 by FamilyVacationCritic.com. 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 Centennial Celebration kicks off this Saturday, May 19th

The kick off of Wildwood's Centennial celebration is just two days away. Here again is the rundown of events and activities scheduled for Saturday...

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A free, family-oriented beach party will kick off the celebration of the City of Wildwood’s 100th Anniversary on the world famous beach at Rio Grande Avenue in Wildwood. A full day of fun, games, activities, food and entertainment is planned. Families, friends and neighbors of the Wildwoods are encouraged to participate and join the party!

The schedule for Saturday, May 19 is as follows:

12:00 noon – Wildwood Centennial Grand Opening Ceremonies
Location: The WILDWOODS sign, Boardwalk and Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood, NJ.

Details: Local radio personality Scott Wahl will emcee the opening ceremonies and will provide the audience with fun facts from Wildwood’s interesting and entertaining 100 year history. State, county and local dignitaries are expected to participate.

1:00 p.m. – Wildwoods Mayors Tram Car Race
Location: On the Boardwalk in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center, 4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ.

Details: Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano, Jr., North Wildwood Mayor Bill Henfey and Wildwood Crest Mayor Carl Groon will compete in a race with the famous Tram Cars

1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Family games and activities on the beach
Location: Beach at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood, NJ.

Details: Island wide civic organizations will provide free games and activities, including clamshell throws, sack races, corn toss and much more. Also included will be educational activities, including nature interpretations and fire safety demonstrations. A food court, including many island culinary specialties, will have a wide variety of delicious items available for purchase throughout the day.

7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. – Bonfire and DJ music
Location: Beach at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood, NJ.

Details: A bonfire is scheduled on the beach at 7:30 p.m. A family-oriented DJ from Kids Parties to Go will provide the entertainment, including exciting, interactive dances.

10:00 p.m. – Fireworks display
Location: Beach at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood, NJ.

Details: The finale of the beach party event will be a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 10:00 p.m.

The rain date for the event is Sunday, May 20. For more information about the Wildwood’s Centennial Celebration Family Beach Party, please contact Ellen DeVito by phone at 609.846.2046 or by email at e.devito@wildwoodnj.org.

Street festival & awards ceremony tonight on Pacific Ave.

REMINDER: Restaurant Showcase tonight

The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce's annual Wildwoods Restaurant Showcase offers diners the opportunity to sample dishes and deserts from various local eateries, win prizes, and donate to an important cause.

This year's event will be held tonight at the Bolero Resort Hotel (3320 Atlantic Ave.) from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Tickets are $25.00, with proceeds benefiting scholarships for Wildwoods students.

Live entertainment will be provided by Kids Don't Bounce.

<------- Click on the flyer for more information.






The list of restaurants scheduled to participate include:

*  Beach Creek
*  Boathouse Restaurant
*  Bolero
*  Cattle 'n Clover
*  Capt'n Jack's Island Grill
*  Claude's Restaurant
*  Dogtooth Bar & Grill
*  Formica Brothers
*  Fudge Kitchen
*  Gia
*  Goodfish Grill
*  Juan Pablo's
*  Jumbo's
*  La Piazza
*  Laura's Fudge
*  Lighthouse Pointe,
*  North End American Grill
*  Pacific Grill
*  Schellenger's Restaurant
*  Shamrock Cafe
*  Stewart's Root Beer
*  The Deck at Holly Beach
*  Urie's Waterfront Restaurant

13th Annual Restaurant Showcase tomorrow, May 9th

The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce's annual Wildwoods Restaurant Showcase offers diners the opportunity to sample dishes and deserts from various local eateries, win prizes, and donate to an important cause.

This year's event will be held tomorrow night, May 9th, at the Bolero Resort Hotel (3320 Atlantic Ave.) from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Tickets are $25.00, with proceeds benefiting scholarships for Wildwoods students.

Live entertainment will be provided by Kids Don't Bounce.

<------- Click on the flyer for more information.






The list of restaurants scheduled to participate include:

*  Beach Creek
*  Boathouse Restaurant
*  Bolero
*  Cattle 'n Clover
*  Capt'n Jack's Island Grill
*  Claude's Restaurant
*  Dogtooth Bar & Grill
*  Formica Brothers
*  Fudge Kitchen
*  Gia
*  Goodfish Grill
*  Juan Pablo's
*  Jumbo's
*  La Piazza
*  Laura's Fudge
*  Lighthouse Pointe,
*  North End American Grill
*  Pacific Grill
*  Schellenger's Restaurant
*  Shamrock Cafe
*  Stewart's Root Beer
*  The Deck at Holly Beach
*  Urie's Waterfront Restaurant

River Adventure Opening at Morey’s Piers’ Raging Waters

New Waterpark Attraction Opening Memorial Day Weekend

PRESS RELEASE

Morey’s Piers introduces a new family waterpark experience at Raging Waters. River Adventure, a renovated incarnation of the Lazy River, invites families on an endless expedition into excitement.

The new attraction features beautiful rock facades and formations all around the river with cascading waterfalls, seating outcrops for mid-river relaxation, geysers and a lovely grotto.

“We commissioned artist Neal McPheeters to paint the river in a new landscape,” said Jack Morey, Executive Vice President. “Our challenge then was to make life imitate art through the engineering and architecture of River Adventure.”

Morey’s Piers will celebrate the opening of River Adventure on Saturday, May 26 when Raging Waters officially opens for the season.

 For more information, please visit www.moreyspiers.com or call 609-522-3900.

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About Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers, located on the boardwalk in the Wildwoods, New Jersey is a classic seaside amusement park, family owned and operated since 1969. Voted the second best seaside amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers has over 100 rides and attractions spanning over eighteen acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Convenient to the major population centers of the Northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Visit them at Surfside Pier, featuring the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club at 25th Avenue, Mariner’s Landing Pier, featuring Raging Waters Waterpark at Schellenger Avenue, and Adventure Pier at Spencer Avenue. For more information, visit www.moreyspiers.com or phone (609) 522-3900
  

All-Star lineup set for Celebration of Heroes Concert, May 27th

While Memorial Day Weekend heralds in the unofficial beginning of the summer season each year, it is also - ideally - a time to pay tribute to those who have and continue to serve our country.

This year, the Wildwoods will host the Celebration of Heroes Festival over the the holiday weekend - a three-day  "salute America's military service men and women, veterans and first responders."

Events will include free and ticketed live concerts, celebrity entertainment, sports events and activities, an outdoor food festival, fireworks, U.S. Coast Guard Recruit Graduation ceremony, interactive experiences, and a Military Procession/Remembrance Ceremony.

The festival will be highlighted by a USO-style variety show/concert on Sunday night, May 27th at the Wildwoods Convention Center, hosted by Saturday Night Live alumnist Joe Piscopo, who will perform with his 17-piece orchestra.

The lineup for the show has been finalized, and will include:

* Grammy winner Lee Greenwood ("God Bless the USA")
* Michael Longoria (original cast member of the Broadway hit The Jersey Boys)
* Miss America 2012 - Laura Kaeppeler
* American Idol finalists Michael Sarver and Haley Scarnato

Tickets start at $25 and are now available through Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

For additional information on the concert and a complete Celebration of Heroes Festival schedule of events, visit http://www.wildwoodsnj.com/heroes , or call 609-729-9000 or 800-992-9732.