charleswiedenmann

[charleswiedenmann]

What’s Chaz Listening to This Summer? 🎧

If you’ve ever walked past someone in Philly with a little extra swagger in their step, head bobbing to a beat only they can hear, there’s a good chance that person was me. Music isn’t just a background vibe—it’s the pulse of my daily life, especially when I’m out walking around the city, soaking in the sights, smells, and sounds of the world around me. And let me tell you, my playlists? They’re…

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Forgotten Amusements: Attractions Lost to Time

Wildwood’s boardwalk has always been a vibrant hub of thrills and laughter, but over the years, some beloved attractions have faded into history, leaving behind only memories for those who experienced them. These lost amusements—once integral to the boardwalk’s charm—are a poignant reminder of Wildwood’s ever-evolving identity. One of the most iconic attractions of the past was Hunt’s Pier,…

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The Wildwood Drive-In

This is an excerpt from my book, Down The Shore Wildwood, New Jersey – Summer, 1981 First, a little history… The Wildwood Twin Drive-In, owned by Fox Theaters of Philadelphia, opened on July 28, 1950, as a single-screen drive-in. In 1976, a second screen was added. This drive-in had a capacity of 470 cars. The Wildwood Twin Drive-In closed after the 1986 season. The original address was…

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🎧 Take a Trip "Down The Shore"—Now on Audible!

If you haven’t already checked out my book Down The Shore, now is the perfect time—because it’s finally available as an audiobook on Audible! 📖 Sure, reading it is great—but hearing it? That’s a whole other experience. When you listen to Down The Shore on Audible, you’re not just reading my memories—you’re walking beside me as I take you through every sun-soaked, salt-air-drenched summer of my…

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The History of Wildwood Crest Beach

Nestled at the southernmost tip of the Wildwoods, Wildwood Crest offers a serene escape from the bustling boardwalk and amusement-filled atmosphere of its northern neighbors. Known for its expansive beaches, calm vibe, and family-friendly appeal, Wildwood Crest has a unique history that sets it apart. Wildwood Crest was founded in 1910 by Philip Baker, a real estate developer who envisioned a…

[charleswiedenmann]

Wildwood After Dark

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a fiery glow across the sky as Wildwood transitioned from the lazy warmth of the day to the electric energy of the night. It was the mid 1970s, a time when the town came alive after dark, its pulse beating to the rhythm of music, laughter, and the hum of summer nights. The boardwalk was the heart of the action, a neon-lit paradise that stretched along…

[charleswiedenmann]

Proud to Be a Girl Dad

I just learned about a term that really struck a chord with me: Girl Dad. It’s more than just a label — it’s a celebration of the special bond between fathers and their daughters. It’s about pride, love, and unwavering support. It’s about showing up, cheering them on, lifting them up, and letting them know they are seen, heard, and deeply loved. Being a Girl Dad means encouraging our daughters…

[charleswiedenmann]

The Doo-Wop Architecture of Wildwood

Wildwood, New Jersey, isn’t just known for its boardwalk and beaches—it’s also home to one of the largest collections of mid-century modern architecture in the United States. This unique style, dubbed “Doo-Wop architecture,” defines Wildwood’s retro charm, transporting visitors back to the heyday of the 1950s and 60s. Doo-Wop architecture takes its name from the music of the same era, reflecting…

[charleswiedenmann]

Looking for Stories about the Seashore? Summer Romance? Miss the Wildwood of the past? Revisit it here in all its Glory!

Here’s your Summer reading list all in one place! I talk about it all and more! If you only listen to one episode of my new podcast, this is the one to hear. I give you everything you need to know, and a bonus story near the end of the show. Believe me… if you love Wildwood, you don’t want to miss this one! . Thank you for listening to my podcast! There’s more to read below! . . I know,…

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Nine Years of Phicklephilly: A Journey of Stories, Growth, and Connection

Today, I received a quiet little message in my inbox from the platform that hosts my blog, Phicklephilly. It wasn’t long, just a simple note to commemorate my nine-year anniversary with WordPress. Nine years.I sat there for a moment, staring at that number, letting it settle in.Nine years of stories, of memories, of laughter and heartache, of lessons learned and moments captured. It all started…

[charleswiedenmann]

Island Serenade: A Great Summer Read

In the world of romantic novels, some stories stand out for their ability to transport readers to far-off places, evoke deep emotions, and remind us that love can truly conquer all. “Island Serenade” is one such tale, a vibrant and passionate romance set against the backdrop of a lush and enchanting island. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through the pages of this heartwarming…

[charleswiedenmann]

Two Shoreline Favorites, One Epic Summer: Grab Seashore Stories and Down The Shore in Wildwood!

Summer is right around the corner—and I’ve got exciting news for all of you who love the sweet salt air, sizzling boardwalk nights, and stories soaked in nostalgia! This season, you can get your hands on BOTH of my books—Seashore Stories and Down The Shore—right in the heart of Wildwood, NJ! 🌊 That’s right! Starting Memorial Day weekend and running all the way through Labor Day, you can pick up…

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The Mysterious History of the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse

Perched on the rocky shores of North Wildwood, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse stands as a beacon of both history and mystery. Built in 1874, this picturesque lighthouse has guided mariners through the often treacherous waters of Hereford Inlet for nearly 150 years. Its Victorian-style architecture and lush gardens make it a striking landmark, but its past is steeped in intrigue, from storms and…

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"The Radiators Are Off, the Space Heaters Are On, and I’m Just Trying to Survive Spring in 19103"

Ah, Rittenhouse. The crown jewel of Philadelphia. Home to historic charm, overpriced coffee, and—for reasons I’ll never understand—radiators that apparently have a personal vendetta against seasonal shifts. Yes, dear readers, the radiators in my building have been turned off for over a month. Normally, that’s no big deal. Spring shows up, the air gets warm, everyone’s walking around pretending…

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The Cost of Wars: Reflections on Lost Potential

Memorial Day is approaching. The impact of wars on nations is immeasurable, spanning from the physical devastation on the battlefield to the lasting scars etched in the collective memory. One of the often-overlooked consequences of wars is the potential that is lost when promising individuals, often referred to as the “best and brightest,” are tragically cut short in their prime. This blog post…

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The Perfect Summer Soundtrack for Seashore Stories

There’s something about summer that just needs music. The warmth of the sun, the crash of the waves, the laughter drifting across a boardwalk—all of it gets a little brighter with the right soundtrack playing in the background. That’s why I’ve put together a special Spotify playlist to pair with my new book, Seashore Stories! Whether you’re reading on the beach, the porch, or curled up in a…

[charleswiedenmann]

New Book! Seashore Stories: A Collection of Summer Tales

Step into the sun-soaked world of Seashore Stories, where the charm of the seashore comes alive in a delightful collection of short stories perfect for your summer getaway. Like a seashell found in the sand, each tale offers a glimpse into the enchanting moments that make the seashore so magical. From the imagination of the author who brought you Down The Shore: Stories from my summers in…