Cape May, Avalon and Ocean Grove Named Among America's Politest Beaches

Issue #745

July 13, 2026

In partnership with

You Don't Have to Guess When, Only Which Way

That's a perp. No expiry, no rollover fees, no options complexity. Just a straight trade on direction, held as long as you want it. $90T trades on this market offshore every year. Kalshi just made it the first legal, CFTC-regulated version in the US.

Using leverage increases risk of loss. Leverage is subject to the Firm's review and the customer's risk profile.

 

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

 🏘️Cape May, Avalon and Ocean Grove Named Among America's Politest Beaches

🎭 Award-Winning Actor James Rana Headlines July 16 Classic American Tales Program

🏍️Beloved Wildwood Rider Known for Bunny Helmet Dies in Route 47 Collision

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Shop Local

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 July 13

Have an Upcoming Event?

Cape May, Avalon and Ocean Grove Named Among America's Politest Beaches

Three New Jersey beaches have earned national recognition for creating some of the most respectful and relaxing beach experiences in the country. A survey conducted by online travel agency Exoticca asked 3,011 Americans to identify beaches where visitors consistently display good etiquette. Respondents evaluated destinations based on cleanliness, noise levels, respect for personal space, crowding and the overall atmosphere. New Jersey stood out with three beaches making the national list. The Cove in Cape May was recognized for its clean shoreline, family-friendly environment and relaxed atmosphere. Known for its historic Victorian charm, the beach was praised for attracting courteous visitors and providing a peaceful setting away from a party scene. Avalon's South End Beaches also earned high marks. The area was recognized for its well-maintained shoreline, quiet surroundings and strong reputation as a family-oriented destination. Survey respondents highlighted the beach's cleanliness, attentive management and considerate atmosphere. Ocean Grove Beach in Monmouth County rounded out New Jersey's honorees. The beach was noted for its calm environment, respectful visitors and quiet atmosphere. The community's longstanding ban on alcohol was cited as one factor contributing to a more peaceful beach experience. The survey measured the qualities that can shape a day at the shore, including whether visitors clean up after themselves, respect neighboring beachgoers' space, keep noise to a minimum and help maintain a relaxed environment. With hundreds of miles of coastline attracting millions of visitors each summer, the recognition highlights several Jersey Shore destinations where courtesy and beach etiquette remain part of the experience.

 

Award-Winning Actor James Rana Headlines July 16 Classic American Tales Program

 Broadway actor and playwright James Rana will open Vladimir Nabokov's acclaimed novel Pnin for audiences at Classic American Tales (CAT) on Thursday, July 16, at 4 p.m. at The Dormer House Bed and Breakfast, 800 Columbia Ave. in Cape May. The performance is part of CAT's weekly Thursday afternoon storytelling series, which continues through Oct. 15. Each presentation features classic works by notable authors performed by a rotating roster of actors, with complimentary lemonade and homemade desserts served after the reading. The July 16 program features the opening chapter of Pnin, the story of a Russian immigrant and college professor in America whose journey to deliver a lecture takes an unexpected turn with the assistance of strangers. CAT Artistic Director Gayle Stahlhuth pursued performance rights to the novel for more than two years before securing permission through The Wylie Agency. Rana is an original cast member of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical The Band's Visit, where he became the production's longest-running cast member through its Broadway and national tour engagements. Cape May audiences may also remember his performances and playwriting work with East Lynne Theater Company during the COVID era. The Classic American Tales series continues with Patricia Durante reading Susan Glaspell's His Smile on July 23, Gayle Stahlhuth presenting The Diary of Calamity Jane on July 30, and Frank Smith reading F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Camel's Back on Aug. 6. Admission is $12, payable in cash at the door. Guests staying at The Dormer House and children ages 12 and younger are admitted free. Performances are held on the front porch, weather permitting, and move indoors if necessary. Reservations are encouraged by calling 609-884-5898 or emailing [email protected].

Beloved Wildwood Rider Known for Bunny Helmet Dies in Route 47 Collision

 Brandon Vega, a 26-year-old Wildwood resident affectionately known as "Bunny Bear" for his oversized rabbit helmet, has been identified as the motorcyclist killed in a Route 47 crash near the Wildwood Welcome Center on July 11.  According to family members, Brandon developed a love for motorcycles as a child through motorcycle shows and parades. As an adult, he became known for making every ride memorable for those around him, often waving to spectators, revving his motorcycle for children, and embracing the attention created by his distinctive bunny helmet. What began as a lighthearted joke evolved into Brandon's signature look, making him instantly recognizable throughout the Wildwood area. Family members said he enjoyed bringing smiles to others and frequently stopped for photos with fans who recognized him. Brandon was a lifelong Wildwood resident and worked as a manager at a local McDonald's restaurant. Funeral arrangements had not been finalized as of press time and are being handled by Evoy Funeral Home. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision, while family and friends remember Vega as a safe rider who became a familiar local figure by bringing joy to children and fellow community members during his rides.

Which Cape May hotel, originally dubbed "Tommy's Folly," was mocked for being too large but later became one of the city's most iconic buildings?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

 Answer to the July 11th Trivia Question

Which U.S. figure composed a march specifically for Cape May's Congress Hall?

A) Theodore Roosevelt
B) John Philip Sousa
C) Abraham Lincoln
D) James Madison

Answer: B) John Philip Sousa​

John Philip Sousa, while visiting Cape May, composed the "Congress Hall March" in 1882 and conducted it on the lawn of Congress Hall, one of the town's most famous historic hotels.​

How Did We Do In This Issue?

Cape May Local Scoop Wants To Know Your Thoughts About Our Newsletter...

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.