JERSEY SHORE THINGS

Your Daily Guide to Cape May & Atlantic Counties

Good morning, Jersey Shore residents and visitors! Welcome to a beautiful Sunday along our coastal communities where the spring energy is blooming alongside the season's flowers.

Today offers a perfect blend of celebrations with National Gummi Bear Day bringing sweetness to our boardwalks and National Pet Parents Day encouraging outdoor adventures with our four-legged companions. With gusty northwest winds and temperatures in the mid-60s, it's an ideal day to explore the trails, beaches, and local attractions that make our region special.

Whether you're hunting for colorful treats or hiking with your furry friend, this Sunday offers something for everyone along the Jersey Shore.

TODAY'S WEATHER

Cape May County: Partly cloudy skies with gusty winds. High 66°F. Winds NW at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. A breezy spring day perfect for kite flying or beach walks, but hold on to your hats! Temperatures will dip to the low 50s tonight under partly cloudy skies.

Atlantic County: Similar conditions with highs reaching 65°F and gusty northwest winds. The breezy conditions will continue through the evening, with winds gradually diminishing after sunset.

SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS TODAY

Happy National Gummi Bear Day!

Today marks National Gummi Bear Day, a sweet celebration of those colorful, chewy treats loved by children and adults alike! Established in 2022 by Haribo to commemorate the 100th birthday of their iconic Goldbears, National Gummi Bear Day falls annually on April 27th. The original gummi bears were created in 1922 by Hans Riegel in Bonn, Germany (hence the name HARIBO - HAns RIegel BOnn). Since then, these fruity treats have brought joy to millions worldwide.

National Pet Parents Day

Today is also National Pet Parents Day, celebrated on the last Sunday of April each year. Established in 2007 by Veterinary Pet Insurance (now Nationwide Pet Insurance), this day honors the special bond between pets and their human caretakers. According to recent studies, approximately 67% of U.S. households include at least one pet, showing just how important these furry, feathered, or scaled family members are in our lives. See our special section below for dog-friendly hiking trails to celebrate with your four-legged companion!

TOP STORIES

Cape May County Approves $224 Million Budget with Tax Decrease

Cape May County officials have approved a $224 million budget for 2025 that includes a decrease in taxes. This comes as good news for residents and property owners in the county as many municipalities face rising costs.

Ocean City Council Delays Vote on Former Car Dealership Lot

Ocean City Council has delayed a vote on a $1 million contract to renovate a former car dealership lot for summer use. The project aims to create additional public space for the upcoming summer season, with further discussions expected at the next council meeting.

Atlantic City Casinos Report Significant Jackpot Payouts

Atlantic City casinos and their online partners have given out more than $107 million in jackpots since the start of 2025. This impressive figure highlights the continued strength of the region's gaming industry as the summer tourist season approaches.

Wildfire Concerns in Ocean County

While not directly in our coverage area, residents should be aware that forecasters are warning of increased fire risks due to low humidity and gusty winds, as firefighters continue to battle a substantial wildfire in the Pine Barrens. The Jones Road wildfire in Ocean County has burned over 15,300 acres but is now 60% contained. Cape May and Atlantic County residents should remain vigilant with today's windy conditions.

EVENTS TODAY

Nature Walk at Cape May Point

A guided Nature Walk is being hosted today at 305 Lighthouse Ave, Cape May Point. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the local ecosystem and spot early spring migratory birds. Comfortable walking shoes and binoculars are recommended.

Live Music at Cricket Club

Enjoy live music at the Cricket Club on Decatur Street in Cape May today. The popular venue regularly features local talented performers in a relaxed atmosphere.

Beach Activities

Despite the breezy conditions, the beaches are open for walking, shell collecting, and kite flying. Today's winds make it perfect for kite enthusiasts! Remember that water activities may be limited due to wind conditions and cool water temperatures.

Lighthouse Tours

The Cape May Lighthouse is open for tours, allowing visitors to climb the 199 stairs for spectacular views. Tours run regularly throughout the day, with the windy conditions providing exceptionally clear visibility from the top.

SPORTS CORNER

Ocean City High School Girls Lacrosse Update

The Ocean City High School girls lacrosse team currently holds a 5-2 overall record and leads the American Division of the Cape-Atlantic League with a perfect 5-0 division record. Despite recent losses to out-of-conference opponents, the team remains focused on postseason preparations.

Middle Township Basketball Star Honored

Jamir McNeil has been recognized for his outstanding season with Middle Township, where he averaged 20.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. McNeil helped lead the Panthers to a 21-9 record and the Cape-Atlantic League American Division title.

High School Baseball Season in Full Swing

Local high school baseball teams are actively competing across the region. The season series between cross-bay rivals Mainland Mustangs and Ocean City Red Raiders has been particularly dramatic, with both recent games decided by just a single run.

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

Caesars Entertainment Supports Local First Responders

Caesars Entertainment's Atlantic City resorts have donated $10,000 to support the 200 Club of Atlantic & Cape May Counties. This organization provides assistance to families of law enforcement and emergency services personnel.

Cape May Music Festival Approaching

The 36th annual Cape May Music Festival will soon be here, running May 25th through June 28th. The festival features orchestral, chamber, jazz, and brass band performances, plus special dining events. Tickets are selling quickly for this popular annual tradition.

West Cape May Farmers Market Season Coming Soon

The West Cape May Farmers Market will begin its 2025 season on June 25th, running every Tuesday through August 27th from 3pm-7:30pm behind West Cape May Borough Hall. The market will feature local produce, crafts, and live music starting at 5pm.

DINING SPOTLIGHT

Sunday Brunch Recommendations

• The Mad Batter (Cape May) - Famous for their orange pancakes and relaxed Sunday brunch atmosphere

• Dock's Oyster House (Atlantic City) - Classic seafood brunch with fresh oyster selections

• Uncle Bill's Pancake House (Ocean City) - Family favorite with extensive breakfast menu

Restaurant of the Week: Cape May Winery

Cape May Winery is open today from 12 PM to 5 PM, offering wine tastings and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a glass of local wine while taking in the vineyard views. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon outing!

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UPDATES

Cape May County Commissioners

The county commissioners recently discussed matters related to the Cape May Airport at their April 22 meeting. Further discussions regarding potential Delaware River and Bay Authority involvement may be addressed in upcoming closed sessions.

Ocean City Budget Concerns

Ocean City Council has introduced the mayor's 2025 budget, which includes a 7.04% increase in the local purpose tax rate. This follows the 2024 budget that also saw an increase. Residents are encouraged to attend upcoming budget hearings.

REAL ESTATE CORNER

Market Trends

The spring market continues to be active in Cape May and Atlantic Counties. Waterfront properties remain in high demand, with limited inventory in most beach communities. Average days on market for properties under $1 million: 40 days, showing slightly increased buyer activity compared to last month.

Property Spotlight

A notable Ocean City Boardwalk property with hotel approvals has been listed for $25 million. This represents one of the significant investment opportunities currently available in the region's prime beachfront areas.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Easter Events Wrap-Up

The City of Cape May recently celebrated Easter weekend with its Annual Egg Hunt and Fashion Stroll events. These family-friendly events were well-attended and showcased the community spirit of the area.

Cape May Spring Festival

New Jersey Audubon's Cape May Spring Festival is set for May 15-18, 2025, with registration now open. The Grand Hotel of Cape May is offering special rates for festival attendees.

Memorial for Naval Veterans

A monument to honor U.S. Navy sailors who gave their lives during the Second World War's "Battle of the Atlantic" is being planned for Cape May. Further details about this memorial project will be announced in the coming weeks.

TRANSPORTATION UPDATES

Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Regular spring schedule in effect with crossings at 7:00am, 10:30am, 2:30pm, and 6:00pm daily. Reservations recommended, especially as we approach the busier season.

Road Conditions

No major disruptions reported on main routes in Cape May and Atlantic Counties today. Ongoing construction projects may cause minor delays in some areas. Drive with caution due to today's gusty winds, especially on bridges and exposed roadways.

SWEET TREATS: JERSEY SHORE BOARDWALK CANDY GUIDE

History of Jersey Shore Candy

The tradition of boardwalk candy along the Jersey Shore dates back to the 1880s with the creation of salt water taffy. Over the decades, names like Fralinger, James, Shriver, and Steel have become as iconic to the Jersey Shore experience as the beaches themselves. These candy stores continue to draw visitors seeking nostalgic treats that have delighted generations.

Must-Visit Candy Stores

Atlantic City:

• James Candy Company/Fralinger's has multiple locations along the boardwalk, including at Park Place, Tennessee Avenue, and inside the Hard Rock Hotel Casino

• Steel's Fudge at 2719 Boardwalk offers delicious homemade fudge that has been a tradition since 1919

Ocean City:

• Shriver's, established in 1898, is the oldest business on the Ocean City Boardwalk, famous for their salt water taffy

• George's Candies, an Ocean City institution since 1954, is renowned for their world-famous macaroons

Cape May:

• The Original Fudge Kitchen at 513 Washington Street (on the Washington Street Mall) offers handmade fudge and various taffy selections

• Fralinger's also maintains a location at Jackson Avenue, 326 Washington Street Mall

Wildwood:

• While specific stores in Wildwood weren't detailed in our search, the Wildwood Boardwalk is known for numerous candy shops offering everything from fudge to taffy to candy apples

These sweet destinations are perfect places to celebrate National Gummi Bear Day today with a special treat!

PET PARENTS DAY: TOP DOG-FRIENDLY TRAILS

In celebration of National Pet Parents Day today, here are five fantastic dog-friendly trails in Cape May and Atlantic Counties where you can enjoy quality time with your four-legged family member:

1. Cold Springs Bike Path (Cape May)

This rail-trail offers a pleasant paved route perfect for walking dogs of all sizes. Previously an unused railroad corridor, it's now a favorite spot for local pet parents. Parking is available at convenient access points throughout Cape May.

2. Cox Hall Creek Wildlife Management Area (Lower Township)

This pet-friendly area features four miles of paved trails winding through wooded areas, grassy fields, hills, and around a large pond. Dogs must be kept on leash while enjoying this diverse natural setting.

3. Middle Township Bike Path

Connecting to the Cold Spring Bike Path, this trail extends toward Cape May Court House. Together, these paths offer over 10 miles of dog-friendly walking routes. This is another rail-trail conversion that provides safe, vehicle-free areas for dog walking.

4. Atlantic County Bikeway (Egg Harbor Township)

This converted rail-trail provides excellent opportunities for dog walking in the Atlantic County area. Wide paths make it easy to maintain distance from other trail users while enjoying the outdoors with your pet.

5. Sperlak Gallery & Sculpture Gardens (Cape May)

This unique dog-friendly nature sanctuary allows leashed dogs to explore 3 miles of trails across 24 acres of fields and forests. The paths feature art installations of stone, wood, and iron, offering a cultural experience alongside your nature walk.

Remember to always keep your dog leashed, carry water for both of you, and clean up after your pet to keep these beautiful trails enjoyable for everyone!

COMMUNITY CORNER

Cape May County Zoo

A perfect day to visit the free Cape May County Zoo! The zoo recently welcomed two young bobcats from Arizona, adding to their collection of North American wildlife.

FAA Drone Testing

The Federal Aviation Administration has been conducting drone detection testing around the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. These tests are part of ongoing security measures and will conclude soon.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Washington Street Construction in Cape May

City Hall will remain open throughout the construction of Washington Street, with the parking lot accessible via Franklin Street off of Lafayette Street. Residents and visitors should plan their routes accordingly when visiting City Hall.

Atlantic City Aquarium Reopens

The Atlantic City Aquarium has reopened after five years, allowing visitors to once again enjoy its fish and animal exhibits. This represents an important addition to the family-friendly attractions in the region.