{Wildwood, NJ – June 1985}
A short time later, the family arrived at the popular resort destination of Wildwood. Knowing that they had only a few hours, the family headed straight toward the beach, where a massive boardwalk ran parallel to the ocean.
The boys were visibly excited as they approached Morey’s Piers Amusement Park. The entertainment complex was situated on two large wooden piers that extended east from the main boardwalk, over the beach, directly to the surf line. Instead of being a landing stage for boats and ships, these piers were used solely to accommodate dozens of incredible and exciting amusement thrill rides and games.
While walking along the boardwalk, they enjoyed looking out at the expansive beach to the east and at the stores, restaurants, and arcade booths to the west. Before the kids entered the park area, Grandpa treated everyone to a fun summer meal consisting of lemonade, wings, fries, and funnel cakes at the popular eatery called Curley’s.
“Kids, you just set a speed record for eating!” said Mark.
“But Dad, we don’t have much time to go on the amusement rides,” said Wayne.
With that, Mark responded, “Relax, you have three hours to enjoy the rides. Just remember, we are meeting at the Ferris wheel at nine-thirty sharp!”
Wayne, Johnny, Lisa, and Amy then darted off toward the amusement rides while the adults talked about checking out the numerous stores on the boardwalk.
A moment later, Liz turned to her husband and parents and said, “I’d actually like to ride the giant Ferris wheel. Any takers?”
“That’s a marvelous idea!” replied Grandpa as he immediately began walking toward the popular ride.
That evening, the kids had a terrific time riding both traditional-style and boomerang-style roller coasters. They also enjoyed colliding into one another on the popular bumper cars and couldn’t stop laughing as they walked through the fun house.
As the girls climbed off one of the cool rides, Lisa was caught by surprise when her girlfriend Amy said, “Lisa, your brothers are kind of cute. Wayne’s really funny, too!”
Not knowing what to say, Lisa blurted, “Uhhh, uhhh, thanks.” Then, she quickly changed the subject. “Hey, we only have fifteen minutes before we have to meet Mom and Dad at the Ferris wheel. There’s just enough time to ride the Sea Serpent. Let’s hurry!”
“Great, you’re right on time,” said Grandpa as he smiled at the kids.
“Let’s head back to my van.”
As the family began the trek away from the rides, the kids agreed that it was a really fun evening.
“Thanks again for inviting me to the park, Lisa,” said Amy.
“The steep drop on the Sea Serpent was awesome, especially when those crazy blinking lights blinded us just before the final turn!”
“I hope I didn’t hurt your ears too much when I screamed, Wayne.”
“Are you kidding me?” Wayne said in disbelief.
“Everybody was screaming. That ride was absolutely amazing!”
Johnny and Lisa agreed that it was definitely the best ride of the evening.
As they strolled away from the rides, Mark commented, “I really had fun tonight. The views from the top of the Ferris wheel were unbelievable! The only thing that I really didn’t care for were those annoying tramcars. I almost got clobbered by one that was driving way too fast! And the driver just looked at me and laughed when I had to jump out of his way!”
Christine responded, “Hey, Mark. Be nice! Dylan and I enjoyed our tramcar ride. They help to transport folks up and down the boardwalk. Plus, it’s much easier than walking!”
Liz laughed as she turned to her husband and whispered into his ear, “She certainly told you, Mr. Opinionated!”
A few moments later, the boys managed to convince their dad to splurge on cotton candy. While the kids enjoyed one last treat at the park, Grandpa mused, “I can’t believe how loud the park has gotten. It wasn’t so loud ten years ago.” Mark and Liz looked at each other and knowingly smiled before Liz patiently said, “You’re probably right, Dad. Thanks again for driving tonight.”
After dropping Amy off at her house, the family arrived home at 10:45 p.m. While everyone was heading for bed, Lisa told her parents, “I think I’m going to sit out back on the deck for a few minutes. The stars really look incredible tonight.”
“No problem, honey,” said Mark, “but you probably won’t be able to see the stars for much longer. Grandpa told me that we’re supposed to get some heavy fog tonight. And remember, you have to work tomorrow morning! So don’t stay up too late.”