Classified  l  Community Forum  l  Sports Blog   l  The Web & The Wire  l  Travels with The Gazettes  l  Cape Cuisine Column l   Cape Cuisine Blog

Return to Shorenewstoday.com  l  Return to The Wildwood Leader

High rises on the bay?

WILDWOOD -- The Wildwood Planning Board is not just thinking big for its hotel zone, proposed master plan changes include allowing additional height all across town – an idea that drew fire from some in residential neighborhoods. One area of particular concern is the bayfront area of the city near the former Marine Commercial district at Ottens Harbor. Changes to the master plan would rezone section formerly (R-2) residential sections in that area as Marine Residential – Commercial (MR-C), and would additionally increase the allowable height in that area to 120 feet or 12 stories. The area is in close proximity to the bayside redevelopment of the city’s landfill by K. Hovnanian. Resident William Kemp, of Burk Avenue, objected to increasing the density in his neighborhood. Currently two- and three-story homes are the norm, and he noted that the city had recently won a court case in that area, based on their desire to limit the density of development there. “No way is 120 feet acceptable in any way, shape or form on any side of Ottens Harbor,” he said. Kemp noted that he has lived his whole life in Wildwood and dedicated much of his time in the community. “This is my town,” he said. “Changing the height in the MR-C zone is irresponsible.” -- M.C.

WILDWOOD -- Planning Board member Joseph Gallagher suggested a last minute revision to the proposed master plan on Monday. He suggested that the city consider limiting its development of 25-story buildings to the east side of Atlantic Avenue, closer to the beach and Boardwalk. Gallagher also suggested that hotels on the west side of Atlantic Avenue be limited to 150 feet, and that development in the adjacent residential multifamily zone, just east of Pacific Avenue, be limited to 130 feet. City planner Stewart Wiser, of Remington, Vernick & Walberg Engineers, expressed interest in Gallagher’s idea. “What you would, in effect, get is a tiered effect…transitional height,” Wiser said. But resident, Mike DellaVella, who owns a condo on the west side of Atlantic, near the proposed a high-rise Waypoint condotel project, expressed concern that perhaps all elements of the master plan had not been properly reviewed. “Are we making changes on the fly here?” DellaVella said. “Because my condo is directly impacted by what you are talking about right now.” Wiser responded that the 250-page document had been a major undertaking and still needed revisions. “Certain things that have been recommended could be done better,” he said. The board will still continue to review the document with the planners, he said. Return to Story Index

Packed meeting brings diverse opinions
By MAUREEN L. CAWLEY Correspondent

WILDWOOD – By 7:50 p.m. on Monday there was not a parking spot to be found in either of the municipal parking lots on New Jersey Avenue near city hall. Inside, a standing-room-only crowd spilled out into the hallway, waiting for the Wildwood Planning Board meeting to begin. There was only one item on the agenda – a public hearing on the city’s master plan for land use, a document that some hope will clear the way for high-rise development. But others, some of whom attended the meeting, hope it will not. The city reviewed and revamped its master plan in 2002, and again in 2004, to allow for the construction of 25-story buildings (250 feet) in some areas – particularly in the Hotel/Motel Zone. But in spite of the fact that six high-rise hotel/condo hybrids have been approved by the city’s planning and zoning boards, the projects have been stalled since the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) denied necessary approval for the first one – the Nouveau Wave, on Rio Grande and Ocean avenues. The master plan review is, in part, an effort by the city to get the condotel plans back on track for state approval. DEP Assistant Commissioner Mark Mauriello wrote a letter to Mayor Ernie Troiano on March 15 offering “guidance regarding specific requirements for high-rise development.” He wrote that in order to qualify for high-rise approval, under the state Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), the city must, among other things, adopt “a comprehensive municipal plan requiring an increase in height and density.” Mauriello also recommended that Wildwood “develop an updated master plan that comprehensively addresses the following issues with appropriate public input: land use, cultural resources, naturals resources, emergency/disaster response and evacuation planning…housing, open space traffic movements and capacity, and infrastructure issues.” But the majority of those who attended the meeting wanted their voices heard on the issue of high-rises, and after an hour-long presentation by professional planner Eric Gundrum on the contents of the plan, they grew restless. Board Chairman Mike Porch intervened by asking Gundrum to cut short his summary so the audience could speak. “Is there any way you could expedite?” he said. “Now for the good part.” Porch said each speaker would have five minutes to talk, but the hearing was not “a question and answer session,” where the public would be able to ask planners and board members for explanations. Porch said that more lengthy comments could be submitted in writing and would be forwarded to the DEP in addition to the tape of the meeting. By 8:30, a line had formed of residents, public officials and business owners, waiting to have their say. Porch asked that as a courtesy, public officials and professional be permitted to speak first – a suggestion that brought a strong reaction from the crowd. “(I think you) should give the residents of Wildwood a chance to speak first,” said Al Brannen, of Concerned Citizen for a Better Wildwood. “After all, we will be here long after they run away with their money.” Wildwood Zoning Board member Raymond McGrath was one of the first to speak on the new plan. He asked that the Planning Board consider changing one word. Instead of “requiring” 25-story hotels, McGrath suggested they be allowed as a “conditional” use. “That way if the city feels that six or eight or nine (stories) is enough, they have some control,” he said. Michael DellaVella, of Spencer Avenue, restated a previous criticism of the 2004 plan that it “zigzagged” according to who owned certain properties. “It still zigzags by who owns what properties,” he said. DellaVella also took issue with the time limits on speaking and the fact that the public could not ask questions. “(The DEP) said there is supposed to be appropriate resident input. This is public comment. When are we going to have public input?” he asked. Brannen echoed DellaVella’s concerns. “I know of not one group that was asked for input,” he said. “I understand some of the board members were not happy with the master plan a few weeks ago. Let us give you some input.” Porch noted that the board has been working on the master plan for the past four months in its regular public meetings, which are open to the public, and the public was welcome to offer input at that time. Brannen also expressed concerns that the luxury high-rises would out-price many of the city’s traditional clientele. But Cape May County Chamber of Commerce Director Vicki Clark said her board had determined that the “first-class lodging” was just what the county needs. Tourists demand the amenities that the high-rises promise, Clark said. If the county doesn’t offer what they want, “they will go somewhere else,” she warned. John Siciliano, executive director of Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority, did not take a position on the proposed size of the hotels, but he echoed Clark’s call for quality hotels. The convention center needs modern hotel amenities to support year-round, mid-week business conferences at the convention center, he said. A study found that “Wildwood’s best (hotels) were well-below convention standards in other locations,” Siciliano said. Mary Erceg, who owns the AAA Heart of Wildwood motel, proposed for demolition and high-rise development, urged residents to “plan big and not fear change.” Rich Tolson, the director for the Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers union, lauded the city’s plan to provide jobs for residents. “The greatest social program is not a job, but a career,” Tolson said. “You have the ability to create year-round employment opportunities for Wildwood and (county) residents.” But Jamie Arena, who owns a Spencer Avenue condominium, questioned why the master plan allows for condo/ hotel hybrid projects when the real estate market is already flooded with unsold units. “How many condos that were built are for sale or empty?” she said. Resident Tony Totah questioned the government’s promise that big buildings bring big ratables. “We have enough (recent condo) development for three high-rises, but my taxes tripled,” he said. He urged the board to more carefully study the impact numerous high-rises would have on the environment and infrastructure like sewer and water. He also suggested they set standards that would require developers to build less dense projects. “People come here to get away from the big city,’ he said. Lester Cantanez agreed. Buildings should be set back on lots to allow “view corridors” to the beach, he said. “Basically, buy a whole lot, not a postage stamp,” he said. The Planning Board will vote on the revisions at its Sept. 4 at 7 p.m. in City Hall. It will then be presented to commissioners for their approval. “If approved by commissioners, it will be approved as a matter of law,” Gundrum said. State officials are expected to review the meeting’s testimony as part of its high-rise approval process. Return to Story Index

Maureen L. Cawley can be e-mailed at maureen.cawley@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling 624-8900, ext. 250.

NORTH WILDWOOD – The community room at Marina Bay Towers senior housing complex, at 610 New York Ave., is still closed. Problems with mold, worn and uneven carpets, an unsafe sixth floor deck, and windows without handles that can not be opened remain. Some residents would also like to see a management and security presence in the building, and they complain that pigeon and seagull feathers and droppings in the ventilation system need to be cleaned up. They also want better lighting in the dangerously dark parking garage. But things are looking up, said resident Mary Kuliseck. “It’s better than it’s been in a long time,” she said. That’s because last week, some of the building’s more than 200 senior residents have begun to get some good advice. Last Tuesday, attorney Ken Goldman, of Cape Atlantic Legal Services, met with them to explore their options. The residents have been stuck in the middle of a legal and financial struggle between developer Paul Cocoziello, who built the 6-year old affordable housing complex, and the city. The 141 units in the seven-story residential tower, opened in 2001 to seniors 62 and older that meet specific income requirements, but much of what was promised never materialized, and maintenance issues continue to effect residents’ quality of life. In May of 2005, Cocoziello asked the city and the county to support an application he filed with the Essex County Improvement Authority to refinance the project for $7.4 million. The city agreed under the condition that Cocoziello would make repairs to the building. He secured the funding, but to date, many of the issues remain unresolved. City officials have reported that more than 50 code violations have been filed against the building, and they say they are withholding state grant money from the developer until the issues are resolved. At a meeting last month, some residents wondered if it would be possible to hold their rent in an escrow account, pending repairs to the building. Kuliseck said that that’s a decision that still needs to be made. “It’s such a beautiful building, such a wonderful location, but the building is not being maintained,” she said. Cocoziello has been unresponsive. But on Thursday, they are taking a major step toward fixing that. “We are forming an association,” she said. “We are having an election on Thursday at 2 p.m.” The votes cast by residents on that day will elect a president, vice president, secretary, sergeant at arms and a treasurer – though for now, at least there are no funds for the treasurer to oversee. “Someone suggested we pay a dollar a month – just to cover postage (for notices to residents),” Kuliseck said. But for seniors on a limited budget, every penny counts. Legal services is providing advice for free. They are also formulating the notices and ballots for the election. Kulisick said she is still unsure who will be nominated for the positions, but she added, “Whoever is elected will be more than capable of handling this.” Then residents can figure out what to do next. “Once we have the officers elected, we need to get everyone together,” Kuliseck said. “I really think we need to do that to get anything accomplished.” Return to Story Index

Maureen L. Cawley can be e-mailed at maureen.cawley@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling 624-8900, ext. 250.

N. Wildwood finding success with online auction NORTH WILDWOOD – How fast does the city’s old street sweeper go? That’s one of dozens of questions that employees in the city clerk’s office have had to answer lately. A new policy of listing unwanted city merchandise at the online auction govdeals.com have brought inquiries from as far away as Ecuador, and it’s bringing more money into city coffers than the old-fashioned auctions that the city previously used. “Being able to see it online has greatly expanded your audience,” assistant city clerk Scott Jett told City Council. The city has listed 13 items on the site, including old police vehicles, a John Deer tractor and a trailer. Calls and e-mails from Alabama, Georgia and Florida are pouring in. “If it were all to close right today, we would have (made) about $10,800,” Jett said, “and we still have a week to go.” Mayor Bill Henfey is a fan of the Internet auction because it allowed the city to sell merchandise when it is done with it instead of waiting for a larger auction. “You can put it up for sale when you are done using it,” he said. City Clerk Janet Harkins said govedeals.com is being used by many local governments, including Dennis Township, Sea Isle, and Cape May County. Posting the items is free for the city. Like EBay, govdeals doesn’t charge an upfront fee for listing items. Instead they charge a commission when the item sells. It is a learning experience, she said. They’ve begun to realize that it’s better to provide as much information as possible about the items as they are listed. A street sweeper, by the way, can go 60-65 miles per hour on the highway, but it won’t pick up much dirt that way. While sweeping streets, it goes about 7 miles per hour. And it’s still not too late to place your bid. Return to Story Index

N. Wildwood next to look at master plan NORTH WILDWOOD – City Council approved an emergency appropriation of $120,000 on Tuesday to fund a re-examination of its master plan for land use. The Planning Board approved a resolution last month to act on a request from City Council to take another look at the land use plan in the city. Remington, Vernick and Walberg has been hired as the professional planner, who will oversee the project. Officials have commented that the review will likely include consideration of increased height in a hotel zone near the Boardwalk and preserving less dense single-family homes in neighborhoods that survived the condo boom. Return to Story Index

Flounders earns proclamation, respect NORTH WILDWOOD – Mayor Bill Henfey honored Ensign Jennifer Ann Flounders with a proclamation in recognition of her graduation from the Merchant Marine Academy. Flounders recently graduated with a third mate Merchant Marine license and was commissioned as a U.S. Naval Reserve Ensign. She served on five passenger, military and tanker vessels for 300 days, and has earned eight certifications. Henfey said it was rewarding to recognize how many exceptional youth live in the North Wildwood. “It’s the quality of life in our town. It’s our schools,” he said. Flounders is a graduate of Margaret Mace School, and Wildwood Catholic High School. She has been involved in numerous community and extra-curricular activities. “We are constantly inspired by our young people,” the proclamation read. “She will leave a legacy in the Wildwoods that will not soon be forgotten.” “I’m very proud,” Henfey said. Return to Story Index

State Police Officer Johnson honored NORTH WILDWOOD – At a meeting on Tuesday, City Council recognized the accomplishments of resident Charles Johnson, who retired from the New Jersey State Police force after more than three decades of service in law enforcement. Johnson began his career as a Wildwood Police Department in the 1970s before beginning his career as a New Jersey Marine and State Police Officer. He received numerous letters of commendation during his career and was instrumental in saving the lives of three boaters, whose vessel had capsized off of Townsend’s Inlet. Johnson is a graduate of Margaret Mace and Wildwood High Schools. He also attended Atlantic Cape Community College and Seton Hall University. “Johnson’s time and energies have been devoted to improving the effectiveness and quality of life for Wildwoods’ residents and visitors alike,” the proclamation read. Return to Story Index

911 calls lead to weapons charges WILDWOOD -- On Aug. 12, members of the Wildwood Police Department Communications Division received multiple 911 emergency calls reporting a man with a handgun in the 4100 block of Hudson Avenue. Accordingly, members of the Wildwood Police Department Uniform Patrol Division responded and detained an individual identified by eyewitnesses as the individual armed with the handgun. During the preliminary on-scene investigation by uniformed patrol officers, a black colored semi-automatic handgun was observed inside the doorway to a nearby residence reportedly owned by the individual detailed in connection to the investigation. Members of the police department’s detective division were assigned and conducted a follow-up investigation resulting in the issuance of a court ordered search warrant, for 4105 Hudson Ave. During the physical search of the residence, a loaded Glock 27, semi-automatic handgun was recovered from the first floor foyer of the residence. A closer inspection of the weapon revealed that the magazine contained prohibited hollow point ammunition. As a result of securing formal statements from victims and eyewitnesses, it was determined that the incident stemmed from a verbal altercation, whereas the defendant, identified as Otis Johnson-Davenport, brandished the handgun and pointed the weapon in the direction of multiple individuals standing on a nearby second-floor balcony of an adjacent condominium. Consequently, as a result of the investigation, Otis Johnson-Davenport, 32, self-employed businessman from Philadelphia, was charged with aggravated assault (three counts), possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, unlawful possession of a prohibited weapon, terrorist threats and possession of hollow-point ammunition. Bail was authorized by the Honorable David DeWeese, judge of the Wildwood Municipal Court, at $50,000 cash/bond no 10 percent all charges. Johnson-Davenport was being held at the county jail. Return to Story Index

Citizen complaints lead to drug, weapons charges at Holly Beach Park WILDWOOD -- On Sunday, Aug. 12, at approximately 11:35 p.m., members of the Wildwood Police Department Uniform Patrol Division, were assigned to maintain periodic checks of the Holly Beach Park located in the 100 E. Block of Burk Avenue. This is a direct result of receiving citizen complaints of criminal activity, which was reported to be connected to the street level sales of narcotics from the city-owned park. During the inquiry, uniform patrol officers observed several individuals loitering in the center courtyard of the park and stopped to investigate. During the field interviews, one of the individuals, identified as Jamal Langston, 26, employed kitchen worker from Wildwood, was found to be in possession of marijuana, resulting in his arrest. A second individual detained in connection to the suspicious activity was identified as a juvenile. Further inquiry resulted in the recovery of a loaded .22 caliber semi-automatic handgun, which was concealed in the juvenile’s clothing. Accordingly, as a result of the investigation, Jamal Langston was charged with possession of marijuana under 50 grams. Furthermore, an active warrant for non-support was located from the Cape May County Sheriff’s Department, and Langston was held at the county jail in lieu of posting $8,160 in required bail. The juvenile arrested in connection to this investigation was charged with possession of marijuana under 50 grams, and possession of a prohibited weapon. The juvenile was processed and eventually released to the custody of his parents. Return to Story Index

NORTH WILDWOD -- I don’t know a thing about Africa. I’d like to pretend that I do because, frankly, I’m embarrassed by how little I do know. Then I spoke to April Grant. Raised in North Wildwood, she went for a semester to community college and then transferred to Rutgers University in Camden to pursue her bachelor’s degree. She hadn’t known much about Africa either. A Semester at Sea during her senior year of college changed all that. The Semester at Sea program takes you around the world. Every day at sea, there are university classes, and every day in port includes independent travel. April visited Vancouver, Japan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Tanzania, Brazil, Cuba, and eventually South Africa. After visiting these places, April was changed. She found that she couldn’t ignore the extreme poverty and hunger that she witnessed—she wanted to help. After enrolling in a Master’s Degree Program on International Public Service and Development, April headed to Ghana, Africa. Ghana is a relatively new country in Africa—it just celebrated its 50th year in March—and roughly the size of Oregon. Though young by our standards, Ghana is actually the oldest independent country in Africa. Like other developing countries, Ghana suffers from a lack of resources and conveniences. Rain water supplies electricity, but since rain water was sparse last year, the electricity goes out for 12 hours every two days. Running water exists, but it exists with occasional lapses. Extreme poverty is commonplace. Government resources like Social Security and Welfare do not exist. And the AIDS virus is prevalent. April currently works for the HOPE Program, which provides care and support for people living with HIV/AIDS as well as to children who are vulnerable or orphaned due to the virus. Part of April’s job includes visiting support groups and orphanages where she interacts with and monitors people infected with or affected by the AIDS virus. Scary, right? And yet April sounds positively exhilarated. When asked about the people in Ghana, April tells me of the amazing and vibrant Ghanaian culture, the low crime rates, and the great family values. The Ghanaians are a very happy people, and a tremendous emphasis is placed upon religion and spirituality. Most Ghanaians (70 percent) are Christian and April thinks their deep religious beliefs contribute to their generally positive outlook. April hopes that her work in Ghana will yield positive impacts, particularly for the Ghanaian children. “It is amazing to walk down the road and have little children run at you from all directions to hold your hand and yell ‘obruni’ (white person in Twi). I sometimes feel like a famous person! A little girl not more than 3 years old chased me a very long way down a long road and I didn’t realize it until I was at my gate. She only wanted to say ‘obruni’ and wave and smile at me…It’s an amazing feeling to make them (the children) so happy just by seeing you in their country.” Unfortunately, educating children in Ghana is a problem. While primary school is free, secondary school is very expensive for Ghanaian families. And while parents recognize the benefits of educating their children, extremely low levels of income often prevent them from doing so. It is particularly difficult for children of HIV/AIDS infected parents to pay for school, since most of those parents struggle just to acquire the funds necessary for anti-retroviral therapy (government subsidized for approximately U.S. $6 monthly). Feeling that she could help, April has founded Coexisting With HOPE, a charitable organization that will provide funding to approximately 24 students for secondary school through sponsorships. The children selected for the project will be extremely needy kids who have finished primary school and whose parents are infected with HIV/AIDS and cannot afford secondary school fees. They are, in essence, children who will be left to take care of themselves and their siblings once their parent(s) have died. Sponsors will be able to select the child they would like to provide for, and will be required to contribute $15 monthly to pay for schooling, and to send at least three letters a year to their sponsored child. Sponsors will hear from their child a minimum of three times, as well, and will be asked to make a one-year commitment. As a citizen of the United States and the world at large, April is hoping she can give a little back. “My sole drive for doing this project and any other humanitarian-type effort I embark on stems from my belief that I am one of the luckiest people in the entire world,” she said. “I was lucky to be born in the country I was and lucky to have the freedoms that I do. I am lucky that there are many support systems surrounding me if I needed to tap into them. Millions of people on this planet are nowhere near as lucky as I am and this is where my drive stems from. “I assist my fellow world citizens who are in need simply because I can and it is a nice thing to do for someone who just wishes a little luck will come their way,” she added. “I hope to encourage more people to reach out and throw a little luck towards those deserving.” Coexisting with HOPE has to hit the ground running in order for sponsored children to enroll in school this fall. With a little of that luck, April Grant will find sponsors for each of the children enrolled in the program. More information regarding sponsorship can be found at www.coexisiting.org or by contacting april@coexisting.org. Return to Story Index

Danielle Davies can be e-mailed at gazette@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling 624-8900, ext. 250.

The Cape May County Army National Guard Association breakfast event is on Saturday, Aug. 25. Carpool Start Point is the National Guard Armory in Cape May Court House at 0745 hours. Breakfast is at 0900 hours, at the Elmer Diner, 4915 Harding Highway (Rt. 40) in Elmer. The Report Point will be the U.S. Army Ordnance Museum at Aberdeen Proving Ground. If you served in any Army National Guard unit in Cape May County, join the breakfast group and renew the camaraderie. For more information and transportation arrangements, call 729-1596. Return to Story Index

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE -- As part of an effort to ensure that children receive necessary preventative care, U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) has teamed up with Community Health Care, Inc. to sponsor Children’s Health Day. On Tuesday, Aug. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., children will be given free immunizations and free dental care at Community Health Care, Inc. located on 410 Route 9 North in Cape May Court House. Immunizations will only be available for children without insurance, or with insurance that does not cover immunizations. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and must have their up-to-date vaccination record in order to receive immunizations. Call Sen. Menendez’s office at 856-757-5353 for more information. Return to Story Index

RIO GRANDE -- Cole Bros Circus, the World’s Largest Circus under the Big Top, is coming to the Robert “Okie” Wisting Recreation Complex in Rio Grande on Monday, Aug. 27 and Tuesday, Aug. 28. It is sponsored by the Rio Grande Fire Department. With the return to Rio Grande comes a whole new show that is jammed with action and entertainment. The one-of-a-kind “ThunderDrome” will take your breath away, while the “Biggest Stars on the planet,” elephants Tina and Jewel, command the spotlight. Featuring poodles, horseback jugglers, beautiful acrobats, and clowns galore, the 2007 edition of the Cole Bros Circus will amaze and delight circus fans of all ages. Save $5 on adult tickets when purchasing before opening day at the Rio Grande Fire Station or Secluded Acres Farm and Garden, by calling 888-332-5200, or visiting Tickets.com. Come early on Monday morning and watch the five-story tent raised to the sky, while the versatile circus workers set up the circus city. Visit the elephants, horses and other circus animals as they prepare for the day ahead. Best time for photos is between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. Free coupons for kids under 13 are available at participating merchants in the area, or go to www.freekidstickets.com. Bring the stars in your family to see the Cole Bros Circus of Stars. Return to Story Index

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE -- Tracy DiMauro, of Rio Grande, was selected as the third finalist in Kindle Auto Plaza's 50th Anniversary Mustang Giveaway. Tracy's name was drawn randomly from hundreds of entries to win a red 2007 Mustang V6 Coupe in honor of Kindle Auto Plaza's landmark 50th anniversary. She is one of five finalists who will compete for the vehicle. Now that the contest has only two months remaining, “the excitement of selecting a winner is apparent when customers come into the Kindle showroom,” says Dave Sharp, general manager of Kindle Auto Plaza. “Most of the people coming into the showroom are buying a vehicle and then filling out a contest entry form with hopes of owning a second car, payment free.” Tracy was just such a customer. She was at Kindle to pick up her new Dodge “Stow 'n Go” minivan when she saw the contest notice. “I've never owned a sporty car and I just love Mustangs,” exclaimed Tracy. “When I heard that I was a finalist, I thought, 'I've just got to win that car!’ ” Currently Tracy drives a Dodge 'Stow 'n Go' minivan that she bought from Kindle. Her husband Mike drives a purple Neon. Her teenage daughters were very excited, according to Tracy. “They can't wait to ride in it, and eventually drive it,” she said. As for Tracy, the first place she intends to drive, if she wins the Mustang, is to work. “I'll want to show my co-workers,” she said. “Thy all know I'm in the running.” Tracy works for Cabrera Realty in Wildwood Crest. She and Mike reside in Rio Grande with their three daughters, 16-year-old Kayla, 14-year-old Amanda and 2-year-old Ciara. The Kindle Auto Plaza 50th Anniversary Mustang Giveaway features a Mustang V6 Coupe with an MSRP of $22,610. It has a five-speed auto transmission, a 4.0 L SOHC V6 engine, leather trimmed bucket seats and an interior upgrade package. The Mustang is painted torch red with a pearl gold stripe and rear deck lid spoiler. The 2007 model comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year Powertrain warranty. To qualify to win the Mustang, contestants must follow a series of clues to identify landmarks in Cape May County. Clues are posted on Kindle Auto Plaza's website at www.kindleautoplaza.com and announced in select print and radio ads. Entries must be dropped off at Kindle Auto Plaza in Cape May Court House. Each month during the contest, which began in May and ends in September, Kindle Auto Plaza will randomly select a finalist who submitted a correct answer. Five finalists will compete in November for the chance to drive away in a brand new Mustang. The remaining four will receive an auto detail and a year's free scheduled maintenance on their vehicles. The remaining finalists will be drawn on Sept. 1 and Oct. 1. A complete set of contest rules is posted on Kindle Auto Plaza's website. Located off of Exit 10 on the Garden State Parkway, Kindle Auto Plaza sells vehicles manufactured by Ford, Dodge, Lincoln-Mercury and Isuzu . For more information, visit www.kindleautoplaza.com or call 465-5000. Return to Story Index

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE -- When the Mondrian Ensemble performs Saturday night, Aug. 25 at Access to Art’s fourth concert of its Sam Maitin Summer Chamber Music Festival, there will be a special reason for the performers and the county cultural group to celebrate. It was 10 years ago that the quartet was founded as the featured attraction of the first concert of the summer series. It has not only appeared in every summer series of Access to Art in Cape May County since then, but has since gone on to perform nationally. Five years after Access to Art was founded, artist Sam Maitin, a supporter of the organization, suggested to founder Barbara Beitel that Access to Art add a summer concert series to its year-round programs. He mentioned pianist Aurelia Mika Chang, a Juilliard alumna, as the possible catalyst for starting a musical ensemble that would keynote the first summer festival. Chang, who had performed solo and with others in the early days of the local festival, approached some of her talented friends, cellist John Koen, violist Anna Marie Ahn Petersen, and violinist Michael Ludwig and the birth of an acclaimed concert quartet took place. Ludwig has been concertmaster of the Buffalo Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Pops. Chang recently performed in Japan. Petersen, who joined the Philadelphia Orchestra upon graduation from the Curtis Institute of Music, has performed in Latin America and South Korea and has appeared on the NBC Today Show. Koen, a cellist with the Philadelphia Orchestra since 1990, has performed and taught in Bulgaria. “We are very pleased that our volunteer organization has brought together such talented group of musicians who have received wide recognition,” Beitel said. Joining the Mondrian Ensemble for Saturday night’s 8 o’clock performance at Our Lady of the Angels Church, at Mechanic Street and the Garden State Parkway, will be double bassist Duane Rosengard of the Philadelphia Orchestra. Among their selections will be Schubert’s Trout Quintet. The series concludes on Saturday, Sept. 8, at the United Methodist Church of Avalon with a concert by classical guitarist Christopher Kenniff and violist Brett Deubner. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors. Call 465-3963 for more information. Return to Story Index

Jake Schaad can be e-mailed at gazette@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling 624-8900, ext. 250.

UPPER TOWNSHIP -- The South Jersey Academy of Music in Upper Township will offer two fall semester music scholarships for qualified students who reside in South Jersey. The scholarships will be for students interested in either piano, guitar or vocal lessons. No previous music instruction is required to apply, although an acoustic guitar is required for guitar students and a keyboard for music students. The South Jersey Academy of Upper Township has given student scholarships for the past 10 years to qualified students. The free scholarships will cover the entire tuition cost for students including music and materials for the three-month semester. To qualify, students must be between the ages of 6-12 and must reside in a household that participates in one of the following programs: food stamps, unemployment, medicaid, general public assistance, rental assistance, aid to families with dependent children, Lifeline Utility Credit, Tenants Lifeline Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, or Pharmaceutical Assistance. Send an e-mail requesting an application to Linda@AmericanPianoShow.com. Applications must be received no later than Sept. 8. The fall semester at the music school begins Oct. 1 for students interested in other lessons. The South Jersey Academy of Music offers classes in piano, voice, violin and guitar. They also offer a basic music class for very young children. For any information on the scholarships or other programs, call 628-4544. Return to Story Index

STONE HARBOR – Incredible end-of-summer deals are “in the bag” at the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s annual Merchants Day Sale, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 25. The Merchants’ Day Sale has been an annual Stone Harbor tradition for more than 25 years in the seaside resort’s quaint shopping district along 96th Street, Second and Third Avenues. Held on the last full weekend before Labor Day weekend, the Merchants’ Day Sale is the only day of the year when storeowners showcase their wares outdoors. Over 50 retailers will participate in this year’s event, which has extended hours due to overwhelming demand. Shopping enthusiasts will discover retail nirvana in the open air with deeply discounted gifts, souvenirs, household decor, swimwear and other apparel, shoes, accessories, jewelry, Christmas items, sports equipment and more. Get there early to take advantage of the very best deals. Adding to the excitement is a prize wheel sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. Shoppers are invited to stop by the Chamber Office at 212 96th Street to register for chances to win great prizes and gift certificates throughout the day. Savvy shoppers will find deals, steals Merchants’ Day Sale STONE HARBOR – Incredible end-of-summer deals are “in the bag” at the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s annual Merchants Day Sale, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 25. The Merchants’ Day Sale has been an annual Stone Harbor tradition for more than 25 years in the seaside resort’s quaint shopping district along 96th Street, Second and Third Avenues. Held on the last full weekend before Labor Day weekend, the Merchants’ Day Sale is the only day of the year when storeowners showcase their wares outdoors. Over 50 retailers will participate in this year’s event, which has extended hours due to overwhelming demand. Shopping enthusiasts will discover retail nirvana in the open air with deeply discounted gifts, souvenirs, household decor, swimwear and other apparel, shoes, accessories, jewelry, Christmas items, sports equipment and more. Get there early to take advantage of the very best deals. Adding to the excitement is a prize wheel sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. Shoppers are invited to stop by the Chamber Office at 212 96th Street to register for chances to win great prizes and gift certificates throughout the day. Return to Story Index

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE -- When classes start Sept. 5 at Cape May Tech, it won’t just be the ninth-grade students wondering where they’re supposed to be and how to get there. All the students and probably most of the faculty will be in for some very pleasant surprises with the expansion and refurbishing program that is expected to be completed in time for the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year. The $14 million project has added diesel engines, masonry and entertainment technology to the list of career choices. State-of-the-art science classrooms are part of the Tozour Building wing along with office space and small group instruction rooms. A new auxiliary gymnasium that will also serve as an auditorium with a stage is part of the new look at the school, and a masonry classroom has been added to the Toft Building to complement the school’s construction trades curriculum. Even the youngsters in the County Pre-School, part of the Early Childhood Education career program, will have new facilities by September. Refurbishing includes extensive work in the cafeteria to lower the ceiling, install new windows and, most importantly, add air-conditioning. Throughout the school, old doors and windows have been replaced and updated heating and ventilation units installed. Along with all the new classrooms, hallways and other changes, students will also see new faces. Thomas Jackson, a graduate of the school, is the new welding teacher, replacing James Iozzo, who retired in June. Maria McGreevy will be teaching Spanish, Brian Halsey is joining the English department and Bill Caterini, a long-time substitute teacher at the school, will teach entertainment technology. Margretta Barbee has joined the faculty as the Director of Guidance and Special Education, and Patrick MacFarlane will be the soccer coach. Classes begin Wednesday, Sept. 5, with a half-day session for students. An orientation program and get-acquainted ice cream social for incoming ninth-graders and other students new to the school will be held Aug. 28 (see below). For admission and enrollment information call 465-2161 ext. 643. Return to Story Index

New student orientation Aug. 28 at Cape May Tech

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE -- Cape May Tech will host its annual orientation evening for new students and their parents on Tuesday, Aug. 28, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The program is held each year prior to the opening of school to give new students, both full-time and shared-time, an opportunity to see the school, meet teachers and prepare for the school year. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for parents and students to register and the orientation program begins promptly at 7 p.m. in the Scrivani Gymnasium. The evening ends in the cafeteria with an ice cream social. Parents will meet with the administrative and teaching staff as well as members of the school(s Parents Advisory group. Student government leaders and representatives from school organizations will conduct tours of the building for both students and their parents, answer questions and provide information about sports, clubs and other activities. Classes begin Wednesday, Sept. 5 with an early dismissal for all students to allow for an in-service day for teachers. Full-day classes begin Thursday, Sept. 6. For additional information about the new student orientation call the public relations office at 465-2161, ext. 114. Return to Story Index

• Meet the zoo animals at the Wetlands Institute STONE HARBOR -- Meet some animals from the Cape May County Zoo on Thursday, Aug. 23 at 6 p.m. at the Wetlands Institute, 1075 Stone Harbor Blvd., Stone Harbor. Several critters – maybe a possum, skunk, fox and some birds - are expected to make an appearance for this special 90-minute open house that’s free with regular admission. Youngsters should be able to get close to the animals and perhaps even touch some of them. For more information call the Wetlands Institute, 368-1211. Return to Story Index
• Scotch Bonnet Scoot Kayak Race Sept. 9 STONE HARBOR -- The Scotch Bonnet Scoot Kayak Race will be held Sunday, Sept. 9, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted by the Wetlands Institute, the race is a sanctioned and insured event by the borough of Stone Harbor. The race helps promote awareness and appreciation of the vital role that the wetlands play in the ecosystem. It is also a celebration of the natural creeks and streams that the wetlands provide to paddlers of all ages. The 3.5-mile race leaves from the 81st Street boat launch in Stone Harbor, through the back bays of Stone Harbor and Scotch Bonnet Creek and around Muddy Hole Island, an aesthetically pleasing challenge to paddlers of all ages. Kayaks are available for rent - for the race or for a leisurely paddle – from Harbor Outfitters, 368-5501 or harboroutfitters.com The registration form is available on the Wetlands Institute’s website calendar at wetlandsinstitute.org Return to Story Index
• Summer wine event benefits Wetlands Institute STONE HARBOR -- The Wetlands Institute’s first-ever summer wine event on Saturday, Aug. 25, promises to be fun, exciting, educational and, most importantly, delicious! “It’s an evening revolving around Spain,” explained Michael Craig of the Washington Inn who is coordinating the fundraiser for the Wetlands Institute. “We’re serving authentic tapas paired with wonderful Spanish wines and complemented with a Flamenco guitarist from New York.” Craig said he expects about a hundred people to enjoy the evening. Chef Mimi Wood from the Washington Inn and two wine experts from New York will add to the evening’s ambiance and authenticity. The event is being held at a private home in Stone Harbor; tickets are $150 per person. For information call the Wetlands Institute at 368-1211. Return to Story Index

Oct. 2, 2007. I’ve already got my day planned out. Get into work a little early that day, do all of my paperwork, and plan no meetings for that day. When the work whistle blows, get on my motorcycle and ride to my nearest retailer who will put a little “Magic” into my fall. Bruce Springsteen and the E. Street Band announced last week that the band is back together, and has recorded a brand new album (yeah, I still call ‘em albums) called “Magic.” Rock and roll at its best, the first release by New Jersey’s own band since 2002. I hate reality television. I could care less about what celebrities are up to. I don’t get caught up in the new gadgets of the era. But when Bruce releases something new with his band, the universe stops and it’s time to plop down an Andrew Jackson and see what they’ve come up with. I visited brucespringsteen.net the other day and studied up on what my favorite band came up with: 11 tracks, a high energy rock album. Nice! Finally, no more folk music and a New Jersey heartbeat. I looked over the song tracks and I could not help but think how many of them reminded me of events of our summer, and things I came across this summer in my personal travels. Maybe it’s karma, or me spending too much time at work, but here are some of the local issues that popped up in my head while I was perusing Springsteen’s “Magic” track list. LIVIN’ IN THE FUTURE—Well, we’re all trying to figure out a way to afford to live in New Jersey for the next 10 years. And in Wildwood, there’s no greater debate than where the city is going in the future. High-rises filled with condos, hotels rooms, and amenities that the Jersey Shore has never seen. City leaders say this is the way out of higher taxes and not enough motel rooms. Opponents this week complained loudly about the plan, saying it caters to special interest groups and is not the will of the people. I can certainly see what they are saying, but if not this, what’s the answer? No one’s dying to open a 40-room motel these days, and we’ve seen so many knocked down, replaced by empty condos that are too pricy and driving people away from seven-day vacations. People resist change by nature. But I think if you look around Wildwood 10 years from now, you may not recognize the place. Bigger buildings here, and perhaps some restaurants that we’ve loved for years gone. Get ready for big-time change. YOUR OWN WORST ENEMY—Another attempt to get enough signatures on a petition in Middle Township to expand township government apparently bombed out again last week. Right before the weekend, the clerk’s office announced that the petition did not contain enough valid signatures. This time, the group organizing the drive got the number right, but there were problems with some of the names. They were incomplete, duplicates, etc. That has got to be very frustrating, knowing there are people who want change and more representation in government, but not being able to nail it down. Many people who are against this possible expansion of government believe if the question actually goes before voters, whenever that happens, it will be approved. But it looks like this effort has come up short for the second time in two years. LONG WALK HOME—Some visitors who tried to get into the Crab House Restaurant in Lower Township left with glum faces this year. Their favorite place to pick crabs, sit by the water, and enjoy what the shore has to offer was closed thanks to a collapsed floor earlier this summer. I’ve talked with a lot of people, both on and off the record, about the incident. Even though some are bummed out they couldn’t enjoy one of the most popular eateries at the shore, we all have to be very thankful no one was killed or seriously injured during that incident. And big-time props go to the owners of the restaurant who worked hard to find employment at their other properties for the young men and women who were counting on salaries and tips to pay for college. That’s what it’s all about, sticking together. DEVIL’S ARCADE—I’m a little too old to be walking into a boardwalk arcade to play games for hours. But I had some friends down a few weeks ago with two kids who wanted to spend time on a very hot August afternoon in an arcade. No problem. I couldn’t believe what I saw: Wawa had even hit the boardwalk. Yes, one of the arcade games that has the little mechanical arm that attempts to pick up novelty toys was rigged to pick up Wawa coffee cups; on the bottom of the game, coffee beans all over. I’m not sure what the prize was, but a Wawa gift card would have been great. Do what I did this week and try to come up with a weekly budget that you contribute to Wawa, in food and gas. And multiply that by 52. Gulp! It’s no wonder there’s a store on every corner. LAST TO DIE—That will be the survivor of the local senate race in our 1st District. Who will be the last to die, Republican Nick Asselta or Democrat Jeff Van Drew? I have no idea how this race will turn out, but I will say whomever wins this race will not come out of it clean. Despite allegations and promises that this will be a clean, issue oriented race, I fear a bloodbath. I don’t think it will get personal, but expect both men to fire off every political scud missile they have at each other in an attempt to win this race. One will be the victor…but that man will also be exhausted, bruised, and possibly wondering if a political seat is truly worth a severe public beating. YOU’LL BE COMIN’ DOWN—Okay Eagles fans, this one is for you. My political predictions are nearly right on target most of the time, and even though I follow sports a little bit more, my sports predictions leave a little to be desired. If Donovan McNabb stays healthy, the Eagles will be headed to Arizona for the Super Bowl. It seems like everything is lined up for the Eagles. A very good defense that’s getting old, and with a shorter window to work with. Offensive weapons all over the field, and a good quarterback with something to prove after a knee injury. And the Bears, Seahawks and the Saints will not be as good this year. I’m a Packers fan, and will root for the Eagles to get buried during week one. But I have to concede that picking the Eagles to be in, not win, the Super Bowl is much easier than trying to figure out the other conference. If you’ve always wanted to go to a Super Bowl and see your team play, start saving your money. This looks to me like the year. Return to Story Index

WILDWOOD -- The 98th Wildwoods Baby Parade stepped off in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center with its usual fanfare - Grand Marshals Ginny and Irv Posternock led the parade and Queen Oceania, Jamie Bottoms and her court, Glyka Papaspanas and Nicole Hearon reigned over the 91 participants who paraded the length of the world famous Wildwoods’ Boardwalk in costumes ranging from angels to Native Americans.

Winners

Most Attractive Baby Boy (under 12 months)

• First Place – Tommy Wallace, Deptford
• Second Place – Declan Finney, Royersford, Pa.
• Third Place – The Crowley Triplets, Wynona

Most Attractive Baby Girl (under 12 months)

• First Place – Kaydence Elizabeth Thompson, Croydon, Pa.
• Second Place –Laurel Collins, Lindenwold
• Third Place – Alana Davis, Paulsboro

Fancy Children (strollers, wagons, etc.)

• First Place – Daniella Oliver, Cape May Court House
• Second Place – Serenity Carlos, North Cape May
• Third Place – Emily & Caitlin Wallace, Deptford

Comic or Most Original Children (strollers, wagons, etc.)

• First Place – Chase Donovan, Shamong
• Second Place –Ava & Leo Famiglietti, Philadelphia
• Third Place – Marley McAnnaney, Wildwood Crest

Best Dressed

• First Place – Giovanna Rodriguez, Wildwood
• Second Place – Kayla Steel, Rio Grande
• Third Place –Mahogany Kelly, Villas

Costumed

• First Place – Faith Hurst, West Wildwood
• Second Place –Celestina Bernard, Wildwood Crest
• Third Place – Gracin Southard, Cookstown

Floats

• First Place – the Brajokski’s & Turners, Erma
• Second Place – Nicolas & Isabella Elentrio, Williamstown
• Third Place – Cole Stocks, Sicklerville Return to Story Index

North Wildwood Recreation Center Ninth and Central avenues Call 522-2955 for more information unless otherwise noted.

Beach Aerobics Outdoor aerobics class at the Lou Booth Amphitheater (Second and Ocean avenues); Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8:30 a.m.; $5 fee (bring exact change).

Beach Yoga Outdoor yoga class at the Lou Booth Amphitheater (Second and Ocean avenues); Tuesday and Thursday at 8 a.m.; Saturday at 9 a.m.; $5 fee (bring exact change).

Karate Karate is held Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and is hosted by Hamer School of Karate. Call 465-5618 for more information.

Crime Watch Second Tuesday of each month at North Wildwood Recreation Center from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Enter on the 10th Street side entrance.

2007 Lou Booth Amphitheater schedule All Concerts Under the Stars will be held at the Lou Booth Amphitheater (Second and Ocean avenues) at 8 p.m. Rain or shine. Call 522-2955 for more information or visit www.northwildwood.com

• Thursday, Aug. 23 -- Island Wide Variety Show
• Saturday, Aug. 25 -- Fralinger String Band
• Thursday, Aug. 30 -- Jimmy Beaumont & the Skyliners
• Saturday, Sept. 1 -- Philly Cuzz Show & Tomardo (Voices of Sinatra, Tom Jones & Bobby Darin) Return to Story Index

Wildwood Recreation Center Events Rio Grande Avenue Call 522-5837 for more information unless otherwise noted.

Open Rec The recreation center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. Return to Story Index

Wildwood Crest Crest Pier 5800 Ocean Avenue 523-0202

Joseph Von Savage Memorial Pool summer schedule

General admission fees are $5 for adults and $4 for senior citizens and children. Individual and family seasonal and yearly memberships are also available. Call 522-0084 for more information. The following is the current schedule for swim programs and activities:

• MONDAY 6-7:30 a.m. – Members Lap Swim 9:30-10:30 a.m. – Instructed Fitness Class 10:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Adult Fitness 12:30-2:30 p.m. – Family Open Swim 2:45-4 p.m. – Lap Swim 7-8:15 p.m. – Family Open Swim 8:15-9:15 p.m. – Adult Swim
• TUESDAY 6-9 a.m. – Adult Members Open Swim 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Swim Lessons 12:30-2:30 p.m. – Family Open Swim 2:45-4 p.m. – Lap Swim 7-8:15 p.m. – Family Open Swim 8:15-9:15 p.m. – Adult Swim
• WEDNESDAY 6-7:30 a.m. – Members Lap Swim 9:30-10:30 a.m. – Instructed Fitness Class 10:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Adult Fitness 12:30-2:30 p.m. – Family Open Swim 2:45-4 p.m. – Lap Swim 7-8:15 p.m. – Family Open Swim 8:15-9:15 p.m. – Adult Swim
• THURSDAY 6-9 a.m. – Adult Members Open Swim 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Swim Lessons 12:30-2:30 p.m. – Family Open Swim 2:45-4 p.m. – Lap Swim 7-8:15 p.m. – Family Open Swim 8:15-9:15 p.m. – Adult Swim
• FRIDAY 6-7:30 a.m. – Members Lap Swim 9:30-10:30 a.m. – Instructed Fitness Class 12:30-2:30 p.m. – Family Open Swim 2:45-4 p.m. – Lap Swim 7-8:15 p.m. – Family Open Swim 8:15-9:15 p.m. – Adult Swim
• SATURDAY AND SUNDAY Noon-4:45 p.m. – Open Swim

Yoga on the Lake The Crest Recreation Department will offer free evening yoga classes this summer on Sunset Lake at Miami Road. Classes will be held every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 7:30 p.m. to dusk. Recreation leader Bobi Watson will direct an eclectic array of styles, calming the mind, focusing energy and enhancing the yogic journey, while simultaneously offering the opportunity to enjoy a twilight sunset on the Sunset Lake bay front, one of the few spots in Cape May County where the sun sets over water. This free-of-charge class will bring people together to learn, strengthen and integrate various yoga techniques, including Savasana (total relaxation), sometimes under the stars. Participants are encouraged to join the program for one class or for the entire summer season. Participants are asked to arrive at least five minutes before class time in order for classes to start on time. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and should also bring a mat or a blanket. Call 523-0202 or 522-0084 for further information.

Summer Concert Series The Crest Recreation Department will once again present its free summer concert series through August. Free concerts will be held on the deck at the Crest Pier Recreation Center at 5800 Ocean Ave. each Monday at 7:30 p.m. and at the Gazebo by the Sea at Rambler Road and the beach Wednesday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. In the event of inclement weather, concerts will be held inside the Crest Pier, 5800 Ocean Ave. Call 523-0202 for further information.

Summer Concert Series

• Monday, Aug. 27 Michael James Taking you back in time with the songs you know and love
• Gazebo by the Sea, 7100 Ocean Ave. All shows 7 to 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted
• Wednesday, Aug. 8 Bill Caterini (7:15 p.m.) Acoustic sounds from the 60s through today
• Wednesday, Aug. 15 Lou DeMeis An eclectic mix of all your favorites, from Sinatra to Deep Purple
• Wednesday, Aug. 22 Ann Oswald Duo Country, southern rock, blues and oldies

Firefighters’ Weekend Craft Show Sept. 14-15 WILDWOOD CREST -- The borough of Wildwood Crest will host its annual Firefighters’ Weekend Craft Show Friday, Sept. 14 and Saturday, Sept. 15 at the Gazebo-by-the-Beach at Rambler Road and Ocean Avenue. A variety of arts and crafts vendors will be on hand Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free. Parking is also free and will be available adjacent to the Gazebo area. Call 522-1669 or 523-0202 for further information.

Crest Adventure Races Sunday, Sept. 23 WILDWOOD CREST -- The borough of Wildwood Crest will host its second annual Crest Adventure Races on Sunday, Sept. 23 at 9 a.m. at beautiful Sunset Lake as a conclusion to the borough’s annual Seafarers Celebration. The Crest Adventure Races include a five-mile run, three-mile run and one-mile family fun run/walk. The five-mile and three-mile races will take competitors on a cross country-style adventure through beautiful Wildwood Crest. The runs will begin at scenic Sunset Lake and continue through some of the borough’s fine neighborhoods before the course manages its way onto the beach at the south end of Wildwood Crest. Runners will continue north, with five-mile runners following the beachfront to Cresse Avenue, where they will exit the beach and run the Wildwood Crest bike path to Rambler Road, before turning west and heading for the finish at Sunset Lake. Three-mile runners will exit the beach at Rambler Road and head for the finish at Sunset Lake. The one-mile family fun run/walk will take participants from Sunset Lake to the south end of Wildwood Crest and back. Prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers, as well as the top male and female finishers in categorized age groups, for the five- and three-mile runs. Entry fee is $15 for the five- and three-mile runs and $10 for adults and $5 for children for the one-mile family fun/run walk for all entries received by Friday, Sept. 21. After Sept. 21, cost is $25 for the five- and three-mile runs and $15 for adults and $10 for children for the one-mile family fun run/walk. All pre-registered competitors will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt. Race-day registrants will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt as supplies last. Race-day registration and check in for pre-registered competitors begins at 8 a.m. Registration forms are available at the Crest Pier Recreation Center at 5800 Ocean Ave. in Wildwood Crest. Online registration can be completed at www.raceforum.com or www.active.com. Call 523-0202 for further information.

Monster Truck Expo Friday, Sept. 29 WILDWOOD CREST -- The borough of Wildwood Crest will host a Monster Truck Expo Friday, Sept. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Crest Pier Recreation Center on Ocean Avenue between Crocus and Heather roads. This fun-filled family event will feature DJ Lou Costello, autograph sessions by the drivers, face painting, balloon art and magic by Captain Visual and food vendors. Admission is free. Monster Truck rides will be available for $4. This fun-filled family event kicks off the 10th annual Monster Mash Thunder on the Beach Weekend being held on the Wildwood Beach. Call 523-0202 for further information.

Sunset Lake Hydrofest Sept. 29-30 WILDWOOD CREST -- The borough of Wildwood Crest will host its annual Sunset Lake Hydrofest Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 29-30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is staged at beautiful Sunset Lake, located along New Jersey Avenue between Rambler and Miami roads. This two-day event features powerboat racing, with hydroplane and flat-bottom race boats competing at speeds of 80 to 140 miles per hour. Racing action will be held from noon to 4 p.m. each day. Craft, merchandise and food vendors will be on hand from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Admission is free, but pit passes for those seeking to get as close to the action as possible, are available for $10. Closed footwear is required in the pits. Call 886-8156 or log on to www.sunsetlake.us for further information.

Paper shredding for free WILDWOOD CREST -- The borough of Wildwood Crest encourages its residents not to throw away their junk mail, personal records, old receipts or other normally discarded documents, as the borough has purchased a commercial shredding machine at no expense to taxpayers. The shredding machine is located at the Crest Pier Recreation Center and is available for use by residents during the facility’s normal operating hours of 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. For more information about the borough’s shredding machine, call the Crest Pier Recreation Center at 523-0202. Return to Story Index

To the Editor: I read Scott Wahl’s column pretty regularly and you are usually right on target, but this week you were particularly succinct. I also lost interest in Major League Baseball after the greed-driven strike several years ago but I found myself slowly starting to stop the remote on the Phillies when I was channel surfing. However, the recent steroid induced home run glut of the past few years has removed any doubt in my mind that modern players embrace immorality in the pursuit of immortality. Return to Story Index

Bill Bezaire Cape May

To the Editor: About your Aug. 1 article on offensive T-shirts, I agree they should be moved inside, out of sight of children. Oh, wait a minute, could that possibly have been four 12-year-olds I just passed, using language that embarrassed me, a retired construction worker? It must be a T-shirt’s fault. Let’s pass a law against any T-shirt thought offensive by anyone. Before you get your blood pressure up Michelle Rokowski, I am trying to make a point. You say you were raised on the boardwalk, but you didn’t say where you’re from. I am a 62-year-old multi-generational New Jersian, as is my wife. When you open a door for regulation in New Jersey to a New Jersey politician, like you asked for about offensive T-shirts, you may soon find yourself breaking the law wearing your Disney T-shirt. Someone might be offended by a mouse. As for your friend, who will never come back to the greatest vacation place in the U.S. because “of an offensive T-shirt.” I am very scared if she is a New Jersey voter who thinks our big brother, nanny-laws are good things, and wants more. Return to Story Index

Leonard Greer Hopatcong

The Wildwood Beach Patrol’s Tri-Woods Rowing Championships, originally scheduled for Sunday evening, have been postponed until this Friday due to inclement weather. The fifth annual event, which features rookie and novice rowers from the Wildwood, Wildwood Crest and Sea Isle City beach patrols, will begin at 6 p.m. on the Lincoln Avenue beach. The Tri-Woods feature rookie and novice (four years of experience or less) lifeguards competing in a variety of rowing races. Competitors can’t have represented their patrol in a large out-of-town lifeguard competition this summer. The competition consists of six events – open long doubles row, novice sprint doubles row, rookie sprint doubles row, novice singles row, rookie singles row and open mixed doubles row. Each patrol can enter as many as three boats in each race. “It’s getting more competitive each year,” said Wildwood Beach Patrol chief Lou Cirelli. “The whole purpose of the race is to build up the rowing skills among the younger lifeguards and to get them more involved in competitive rowing. It’s a fun evening and it’s very low key and there’s always good sportsmanship involved in it.” Wildwood is the four-time defending champion of the competition. The competition represents the final South Jersey Lifeguard Chiefs Association-sanctioned event of the summer of 2007. Return to Story Index

Parts of the streets, beach and ocean in the North Wildwood area will be turned into a triathlete’s playground Saturday morning at 7:30 as the Tri/Du The Wildwoods takes place throughout the city. Well over 400 people are expected to take part in the fourth annual event, which consists of a quarter-mile swim, 11-mile bike and 5K run. Participants not interested in or comfortable with the swim portion of the event can choose the duathlon portion of the competition, which substitutes a 5K run for the quarter-mile swim. The triathlon begins with the swim, on the beach at 15th Avenue, in front of North Wildwood Beach Patrol headquarters. Following the swim, athletes move to the bike portion of the event, which rides through much of North Wildwood, with most of the route taking place in Anglesea and along Central Avenue. Competitors then return to the beach at 15th Avenue for the run, an out-and-back course that takes the athletes south to Wildwood and back to the finish on the beach at 15th Avenue. John Kenny, of Atlantic City, topped a field of 411 competitors to win last year’s triathlon. He finished the course in 57 minutes, 10 seconds to beat Rob Lythgoe, of Philadelphia, by more than a minute. Laurie Hug, of Ambler, Pa., was the top female finisher, placing 13th overall on 1:02:46 Jim O’Donnell, of Riverton, won the duathlon portion of the competition in 1:08:27. Wendy Walsh, of Gladwyne, Pa., was first among females in 1:17:13 in the duathlon, which attracted 64 competitors last year. Return to Story Index

WILDWOOD CREST – The Greater Wildwood Yacht Club hosted the Mid-Atlantic Yacht Racing Association (MAYRA) Championships Saturday and Sunday on Sunset Lake. Breezy conditions greeted sailors of all ages and skill levels representing the 15 clubs that make up the MAYRA, which completed its 2007 summer season with the event. The following are results of the various competitions:

OPTIMIST:
1. Todd Christy, Ocean City Yacht Club;
2. Connor Wortley, Yacht Club of Stone Harbor;
3. Andrew Puopolo, Yacht Club of Pleasantville;
4. Charlotte List, Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May;
5. Kenny Griffin, Yacht Club of Stone Harbor;
6. Erin O’Keefe, Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May;
7. Ashlee Keating, Brigantine Yacht Club;
8. John Lord, Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May;
9. Katie Larkin, Ocean City Yacht Club;
10. Scott Christy, Ocean City Yacht Club.

OPEN YOUTH 420:
1. Craig Williams-Brittany Goody, Yacht Club of Stone Harbor;
2. Mike Russom-Morgan Russom, Greater Wildwood Yacht Club;
3. Tyler Nemsdale-Robert Warley, Yacht Club of Pleasantville;
4. Eric Bennung-Rachel Bennung, Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May;
5. Lindsey Press-Casey Murray, Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May.


LASER:
1. John MacCausland (Master), Cooper River Yacht Club;
2. Dave Breder (Master), Greater Wildwood Yacht Club;
3. John Wilsey (Master), Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May;
4. Jim Knabb (Master), Cooper River Yacht Club;
5. Michael Russom (Junior), Greater Wildwood Yacht Club;
6. Dylan Rogers (Open), Greater Wildwood Yacht Club;
7. Mike Hecky (Master), Riverton Yacht Club;
8. Craig Williams (Junior), Yacht Club of Stone Harbor;
9. Eric Bennung (Open), Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May;
10. Brian A. Huntsman (Master), Ocean City Yacht Club.

LASER RADIAL:
1. Joseph Terrell, Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May;
2. Morgan Russom, Greater Wildwood Yacht Club;
3. Nick Pro, Riverton Yacht Club;
4. Jessica Thal, Ocean City Yacht Club;
5. Mike Rabbetts, Riverton Yacht Club;
6. Will Jaimas, Ocean City Yacht Club;
7. Meghan O’Keefe, Corinthian Yacht Club;
8. Rachel Hanscom, Ocean City Yacht Club;
9. Courtney Hanscom, Ocean City Yacht Club;
10. Kathy MacCasuland, Corinthian Yacht Club of Cape May.
 

SUNFISH GRAND MASTER AND MASTER:
1. Mike Parsons (Master), Cooper River Yacht Club;
2. Don Echevarria (Grand Master), Avalon Yacht Club;
3. Tom Doris (Grand Master), Yacht Club of Sea Isle City.

SUNFISH JUNIOR:
1. Britt Chalmers, Ocean City Yacht Club;
2. Tabor Shiles, Avalon Yacht Club.

SUNFISH YOUTH:
1. Jenna Balicki, Avalon Yacht Club;
2. Xavier Stanish, Avalon Yacht Club. Return to Story Index

WILDWOOD CREST – Middle Township, sponsored by Barber’s Landscaping, finished off a strong summer in the Wildwood Crest Recreation high school girls basketball league last week with a convincing 25-12 victory over Wildwood Catholic, sponsored by Sam’s Pizza, to claim the league championship. Danielle Barber posted 12 points and Jessie Mooers and Alison Mastrangelo each added four points for the Lady Panthers. “I’m happy with the effort our kids gave this summer,” Middle coach John Leahy said. “The summer is hectic. The kids are involved in a lot of sports and they pretty much all work, but I have no complaints about the effort and commitment they gave to playing this summer. Across the board with all three of our teams (entered in the summer league), I thought all of them got better as the summer went and that’s the most important thing. We were able to see improvement and hopefully that will pay off when the season comes around.” Middle finished 17-11 last winter. The team is being viewed as one of the top teams in the Cape-Atlantic National Conference going into the new season. One of the reasons for that optimism is that Middle is bringing back a good majority of its players from last year. In fact, many of the players will have had at least two years of varsity experience when the season starts. “Being young is definitely not going to be an excuse for us,” Leahy said. “Our entire varsity is pretty much all upperclassmen. Most of our kids have at least two full years of varsity under their belts, so there are certain mistakes we should not be making this year. They should have high expectations for themselves. We have experience and leadership. Now we just have to go out and play like upperclassmen this year.” Leahy feels his team has a good chance to be one of the better clubs in its league. “Overall I think we have a chance to be better than we were last year,” he said. “Some of the other teams in the league lost some good players and the combination of other teams losing a lot and us having a lot of upperclassmen should benefit us. We’re going to go into the season with relatively high expectations. But well have to stay healthy and be a little lucky and have some things go our way in order to have a good season.” Return to Story Index

Maxwell Field in Wildwood will once again play host to a pair of high school football games involving teams from the Philadelphia Catholic League on Saturday of Labor Day Weekend. The Sept. 1 contests feature Roman Catholic against West Catholic at 11 a.m. and North Catholic against Neumann-Goretti at 3:30 p.m. Tickets for the games will be available at the gate. There is a separate admission charge to each game. In last year’s games at Maxwell Field, Roman topped West, 22-7, and Neumann-Goretti nipped North, 16-12. Return to Story Index

Current of Somers Point, Linwood, Northfield I Current of Galloway Township and Port Republic I Current of Egg Harbor Township
Current of Downbeach  I Current of Hamilton Township  l   The Current of Absecon, Pleasantville
Ocean City Gazette I Wildwood Leader I Cape May Gazette I Middle Township Gazette I Upper Township Gazette I Beachcomber News
 

(c) Catamaran Media Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved. All property rights for the entire contents of this publication shall be the property of Catamaran Media Company, LLC. No part thereof may be reproduced without prior consent. For more information, please e-mail