Beachcomber Press Room

March 2010

Happy (to give) campers - Area campgrounds do their part to help local hospitals. Press of Atlantic City

You might not expect Philadelphia native Tricia Liberati, 48, to volunteer to raise money for Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May Court House. But she has, for almost all of the 18 years she's been spending summers camping in Cape May at Beachcomber Camping Resort. Liberati has a very personal reason for participating.

"We use CRMC facilities when we're there in the summer. My son was very sick when he was little. He had a lot of breathing problems, and we ended up there very often. They were great to us."

Beachcomber Camping Resort in Cape May County is one of few, who lead the way in hosting fund-raising activities and enlisting help from campers. Their owners recently donated funds raised last season and staff is now planning events for next summer.Beachcomber is owned by Thomas and Claire Brodesser, who personally donated $1 million to the hospital in 2008. In January 2010, Beachcomber gave the hospital a check for $27,000 from campground events. Last year the campground raised $24,000. Over the past 16 years, the campground has raised about $300,000 for the hospital, said Kristin Gallego, marketing director for Beachcomber.

"All summer long we have fun for a good cause," Gallego said. "We have a lot of volunteers from our seasonal campers. They know we need help."

Jan 2010

Beachcomber Gives $27,000 to Cape Regional, Herald Newspapers

For 16 Consecutive Years, Beachcomber Camping Resort’s “Fun-Raisers” Supports Cape Regional Medical Center

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE – January 7, 2010 – Representing Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser Family, Tammy Gomez and Kristen Gallego presented a check for $27,000 to Joanne Carrocino, FACHE, President and CEO of Cape Regional Medical Center and Tom Piratzky, Executive Director of Cape Regional Medical Center Foundation. The occasion marked the 16th year Beachcomber Camping Resort has held major “fun-raising” events to benefit Cape Regional.
“Each December, Tammy Gomez visits Cape Regional on behalf of the Brodesser Family and presents Beachcomber Camping Resort’s annual gift. The gift is addressed to Cape Regional Medical Center, but the reality is that it is a gift to the Cape May County community, because the services, technology, and enhancements made possible by Beachcomber’s hard work and dedication benefits the entire community, both our residents and visitors,” stated Joanne Carrocino, FACHE, President and CEO. “Our deep gratitude goes out to the Brodesser Family and the Beachcomber Campground organization.”
One of Beachcomber’s main “Fun-Raising” events is its “Big Non-Stop Auction Weekend”, throughout this weekend, campers enjoyed bingo-mania games, rubber ducky regatta, bike raffle, silent and live auctions, plus a fun Chinese auction for the kids! The auction was a huge success. The Brodesser Family and Beachcomber Camping Resort would like to thank all the community businesses and Beachcomber campers, volunteers and employees for their generous donations and hard working effort for making this years’ Auction “Fun-Raiser” better than ever!

Dec 2008

Beachcomber Gives $24,500 to Cape Regional, Herald Newspapers

COURT HOUSE - Representing Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser Family, Tammy Gomez and Adele Gouse presented a check for $24,500 to Joanne Carrocino, president and CEO of Cape Regional Medical Center.
According to a release, the occasion marked the 15th year Beachcomber Camping Resort had held major "fun-raising" events to benefit the medical center.
Beachcomber starts "fun-raising" on opening day and keeps on through the season with popular activities including a thrilling polar bear plunge, Rubber Ducky Regatta, exciting auctions and a big carnival weekend with clowns, midway games and more.
The "fun-raising" continues into fall with the annual seasonal Bingo Mania game where one lucky seasonal camper can win up to the value of next year's seasonal camping site worth over $3,400, donated by the Brodesser family.
Haunted Halloween Hayride "fun-raisers" finished up the season on a spooky note.
These events were a huge success thanks to the generous contributions from local business and private citizens of merchandise, gift certificates and monetary donations.
"On behalf of the Brodesser Family and Beachcomber Camping Resort, we would like to thank the community businesses and Beachcomber Campers for their generous donations and for making this year's "fun-raising" such a success," stated Gomez.
"Extra special thanks goes to the Beachcomber Auction Committee volunteers, Beachcomber staff and other event volunteers, for all the time and effort they have put into making this event a success," Gomez continued.
"For over 15 years, the Brodesser Family has poured out their generosity on the Cape May County community by supporting Cape Regional Medical Center," stated Joanne Carrocino, president and CEO. "Their support and boundless energy is a continual source of inspiration for the entire Medical Center family. Words cannot adequately express our deep gratitude to the Brodesser Family and the Beachcomber Campground organization," Carrocino added.

Dec 2008

Beachcomber Gives $24,500 to Cape Regional, Herald Newspapers

Feb 2008

Brodesser's Pledge $1 Million to Cape Regional, Herald Newspapers

COURTHOUSE - Thomas & Claire Brodesser Jr. of Cape May have made a $1-million gift to the Cape Regional Medical Center Foundation in support of the "Raising the Standard of Healthcare . . . One Floor at a Time" Capital campaign.
The Brodessers are owners of Beachcomber Campgrounds in Cape May. Tom Brodesser is a past member of the board of trustees, and the Brodessers have been long time supporters of the medical center including a three-year, $100,000 gift to the Cancer Center in 2003-05. "Claire and I are excited to give back to our community with a gift to Cape Regional Medical Center." stated Brodesser, in a release. "The medical center has provided great care to our family and the many campers of our campground," he added.
In recognition of the Brodesser's gift, the Cancer Center at Cape Regional Medical Center will be named the "Thomas & Claire Brodesser, Jr. Cancer Center." "We are very grateful for the support and generosity that Tom & Claire have provided to the Medical Center over the years." commented Henry Bryski, chairman of the board. "The entire community benefits from their gift."
Cape Regional Medical Center has recently completed a $2.2 million renovation of all the patient rooms and nursing floors. The foundation's Capital Campaign Committee headed by Jay Ford of Crest Savings Bank has raised over $1.7 million to date towards the goal of $2.2 million.
The Campaign is a three-year campaign. "The members of the capital campaign committee have done an outstanding job seeking support from the community for this much needed project." stated Philip Koebig, chairman of the Cape Regional Medical Center Foundation Board of Trustees. Every patient room now looks like an upscale hotel room, providing our patients with a comfortable and efficient environment to recuperate," he added. To contact the Foundation, call (609)463-4040.

June 2007

Teitelman Students Take a Field Trip, Cape May Gazette

On June 5, more than 100 Richard M. Teitelman School's Academic Team students visited Beachcomber Camping Resort for an end-of-the-year trip. In previous years, the school had taken field trips to destinations outside the county, but this year, they decided to stay local. Teacher Michael Raspa, coordinator of the event, said "During my 30 plus years at Richard M. Teitelman School I have been involved in many end of the year field trips. Tuesday at the Beachcomber Campground was easily one of the best." The students swam, fish3d, kayaked, and boated.

Sept 2006

Best of Cape May - capemay.com

Every year, CapeMay.com conducts an on-line survey of the opinions of our readers about the best of Cape May. The results from last month's questionnaire are in. And the winners are...
Best Place to Stay : B&B - Angel of the Sea, Guest House - The Columbia House, Hotel - Congress Hall, Campground - Beachcomber Camping Resort. Best Service in Town: (3-way tie): Washington Inn, Cape May Carriage Co., The Lobster House. Most Interesting Shop: Whale's Tale. Best Bargain in Town: Cape May Wicker. Best Beach: The Cove. Most Fun Thing to Do: Go to the beach. Best Place to Meet People: Washington Street Mall. Best Victorian Building: The Mainstay. Best Tour:The Original Haunted Cape May Tour. Best Coffee: WaWa. Best Pizza:Louie's. Best Hamburger or Sandwich: The Ugly Mug (looks like their Ocean Burger is VERY popular). Best Ice Cream: Ben & Jerry's. Best Restaurant: The Lobster House. Best Clothing Store: The Free Shop. Best Candy Store: Morrow's Nut House. Best Gift Shop: The Whale's Tale. Best Time of Day: Morning. Best Place for a Cocktail: The Brown Room at Congress Hall & Martini Beach. Best Street in Town: Jackson Street. Most Romantic Restaurant: The Washington Inn Best Quick Lunch: Zoe's. Best Night Spot: Carney's & Carney's Other Room. Best Photo Spot: Sunset Beach. Best Live Entertainment: Carney's.

Sept 2005	Beachcomber Camping Resort, Cape May, NJ- Tim Conway, Woodall's Camping Ways
	Guests who are staying at the Beachcomber Camping Resort face a rather pleasant dilemma – with so much to do at the campground and a great variety of area attractions, including Cape May, Atlantic City and area beaches, there aren't enough hours in the day to take it all in. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Beachcomber earned a perfect 5W from Woodall's for recreation. The campground caters to campers of all ages, with some particularly unique feathers such as an adult clubhouse that features cable TV/VCR, a fireplace, full kitchen, pool table and a dark board. While the adults are lounging upstairs the kids can play downstairs in the game room. "People think if you keep the kids happy, the parents will be happy," says Allison Stewart, director of marketing, special events and group services for the campground. "We think we can keep the parents happy by providing activities for them, like our adult clubhouse." Located on the lower New Jersey peninsula, the RV campground is virtually surrounded by beaches. And for guests who want to enjoy the water without leaving the premises, Beachcomber offers three pool complexes and two lakes. The lakes are stocked, offering catch-and-release fishing, and since they are located on the campground, no fishing license is required. At the campground's large lake, guests can rent kayaks and paddle boats for a leisurely cruise. Guests are welcomed to launch their own non-motorized boat in the lake. "We're surrounded by beaches and that's really our main draw here," Stewart says. "We've got a great location, but we offer so much at the campground, too." Owners Tom and Claire Brodesser, who built the campground from scratch, have seen their "work in progress" grow to 750 sites, along with 28 cabin rentals and two RV trailers for rent. The campground also caters to big rigs, welcoming motor homes up to 48 feet in length. The entrance, roads and entry turns a the campground have been widened to accommodate larger rigs with easier access. The VIP sites are close to the heart of the campground and they have 50-amp, electrical, cable and a concrete patio and a lamppost. Year after year, guests return to find continued improvements in the facilities and activities. To get a sense of the draw the campground has on its guests, consider Stewart. She first camped at Beachcomber when she was in 6th grade. After graduating college, she took a summer job at the campground, and now has worked here the last 11 years. High on most RVers priorities are clean, neat bath houses and Beachcomber does not disappoint. There are five clean, modern bath houses with hot showers. Guests can venture out and explore the area to enjoy the "Do-Wop" architecture of Wildwood, as well as the area's boardwalk, water parks and carriage rides. Upcoming events include the Apple Harvest Festival (Sept. 23-25) and the ever-popular Halloween Weekends featuring haunted hayrides and more. Make your reservations for Halloween soon because spaces are selling out quickly! With more then 100 lush acres at the campground, guests will wwant to bring their bikes to explore the area. Tale the path that goes from the Beachcomber entrance down to Cold Spring Village and beyond!

May 2005	Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital able to offer precise radiation therapy treatment: IMRT
	CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE –Described as "the most exciting advance in cancer care," Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) is a new form of radiation treatment now being used at Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital that uses beams that wrap precisely around tumors, avoiding contact with healthy tissue. Developed over the past decade, the technique is used to treat cancers with limited side-effects to patients. Experts estimate that it could reduce the usual side-effects from radiotherapy, such as tiredness, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, by up to 75 percent. At present only a handful of hospitals in New Jersey use IMRT. "This is a very exciting time for us," says James C. Wurzer, MS, chair of the Radiation Oncology Department at Burdette. "We finally have the technology to provide tailor-made radiotherapy treatment to complex tumor shapes. It is the most exciting advance." There are clear signs from medical research that IMRT represents a huge step forward in cancer therapies. When a tumor is wrapped around or close to sensitive organs, standard radiotherapy can cause significant side-effects to patients. Traditional radiation therapy works by boxing off the area around the tumor before delivering uniform beams to destroy it. But this conventional approach can also damage surrounding healthy tissue. "The aim is to deliver a more selective dose of radiation, bearing in mind that the area of the tumor that receives the lowest dose is where the cancer is most likely to recur," says Dr Wurzer. "I liken the procedure to ‘painting' the tumor. Effectively, what we are trying to do is to paint only the tumor tissue so that no unnecessary damage is caused."(...)

Dec 2004	Beachcomber Raises Funds For Burdette Oncology Center - Cape May County Herald
	Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser Family on Oct. 28 presented a check to Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital in the amount of $33,000, which has been earmarked for new IMRT radiation therapy technology in the hospital's Radiation Oncology Center. Beachcomber campers raised $21,949.31, and the Brodesser Family donated a sum of $11,150.69. This marks the 11th year Beachcomber has held major fundraising events at the campground. The campground's staff began fundraising on opening day, and efforts continued through the summer. Events included a polar bear plunge, a rubber ducky regatta, "Have a Heart for BTMH," a bike weekend, a kid's auction, and a silent and live adult auction. The fundraising continued through the fall with the annual seasonal Bingo Mania game, where one lucky seasonal will win the value of next year's seasonal site, compliments of the Brodesser family. These events were a huge success, thanks to the donations of merchandise, gift certificates and monetary donations made by local businesses and private citizens from throughout the county. The following Beachcomber Auction Committee volunteers were also recognized: Allison Stewart, John and Stacey Mason, Mike Carofine, Patty Davis, Mike Scuito, Megan Faulkner, Rich Riehl, Maria Sharkey, Lori and Stephen Smith, Kathy Worthington, Dan and Sue Yohey and other event volunteers for all the time and effort they put into making these events a success.

Dec 2004	New Prostate Cancer Treatment - Al Campbell, Cape May County Herald
	COURT HOUSE – To the prostate cancer patient, Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital's new $1-million Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), is a nearby treatment. [It will mean fewer side effects and more direct tumor-killing radiation.] To Dr. James C. Wurzner, chair of the radiation oncology department at the hospital, and others in the unit, IMRT is an exciting advancement that was never so close. It will enable life-saving procedures once only possible at large, metropolitan hospitals. To Herbert Hornsby, chairman of Burdette Tomlin Health System, it's proof positive that the community is willing to put serious Monetary donations into equipment that benefits patients. On Dec. 10, in the radiation treatment center under the hospital's emergency room, donors gathered along with hospital officials, including hospital President Joanne Carrocino to celebrate the new equipment. Wurzner said only a "handful of hospitals" in the state use IMRT. After inspecting the new equipment, long-time surgeon Dr. Carmen Alameno, was impressed, and said treatment that will be possible here now was never before available. To him, it means being able to better treat patients. Other types of cancer will also be treated by IMRT, but for the present, prostate cancer patients will make up the majority of those using the new technology. Among major donors were: Beachcomber Campground and the Brodesser family, and others.

Oct 2004	Burdette renames board room in honor of Tom and Claire Brodesser- Cape May County Herald
	CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE – Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital board chairman Herb Hornsby announced the hospital's board room would be renamed the Brodesser Board Room in honor of Tom and Claire Brodesser of Cape May. The announcement was made at a board of trustees meeting Sept 28. The Brodessers have been tireless advocates and fundraisers for Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital, Hornsby said. Tom Brodesser has served on Burdette's Hospital and Health System boards continuously since 1971. Hornsby said for the last 11 years, the Brodesser family has made a strong commitment to the quality of care provided at Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital through financial support of capital acquisitions and improvements. The Brodessers are owners of Beachcomber Campground, Inc. in Cape May where major fund-raising projects have been held each summer to benefit the hospital. "What's remarkable about their efforts is that the Brodesser family, and Beachcomber staff and volunteers, actively engage the campers in games and events to help generate these generous denotations," said Joanne Carrocino, FACHE. "We are indebted to them" In addition to serving on Burdette Tomlin's board of trustees, Tom Brodesser has been active in a variety of activities including the Lower Township Rotary Club, Cape May County Chamber of Commerce and the National Campground Owners Association. Tom and his wife Claire reside in Cape May. They have a winter residence in Jupiter Beach, Fla. Their children are Theresa Margaret and Tamalynne.

Nov 2003	Hospital Fundraisers Held at Beachcomber Campground Throughout Summer Produce Generous Results - Burdette Bulletin
	On November 6, 2003, the Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser Family were proud to present a check to the Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital in the amount of $33,000. Beachcomber campers raised a whipping $16,500, with matching funds by the Brodesser Family. This marks the ninth year Beachcomber has held major fundraising events at the campground to benefit the hospital. Beachcomber begins its efforts on opening day, and continues through the summer with events such as a polar bear plunge, a rubber ducky regatta, have a heart for Burdette, a bike stand-off, a carnival weekend, a kid's auction and a silent and live-adult auction. The fundraising continues into the fall with the annual seasonal Bingo mania game, where one lucky seasonal camper can win up to the value of next year's season site compliments of the Brodesser family. These events were a huge success thanks to the Beachcomber along with the generous donations of merchandise, gift certificate, and monetary donations by local businesses and private citizens throughout Cape May County. The Burdette Tomlin Memorial Foundation, along with the Brodesser Family and Beachcomber Camping Resort, extends its gratitude to community businesses and Beachcomber campers for their generous donations and for making this year's fundraiser events so successful. An extra special thanks goes to the Beachcomber volunteers: Allison Stewart, Stacey Mason, Dan and Sue Yohey, Mike Scuito, Pat Davis, Roe Buscemi, Lucille Lux, George Strano, Trish Liberati, John Mason, Tracy Golden, Cesar Santiago, Vince Stewart, and other events volunteers, for all the time and efforts they have put into making these events a success.

April 2003	A Family Tradition of Caring - The Beacon
	The Burdette Tomlin Memorial Foundation is proud to announce that the Thomas and Claire Brodesser Family have made a $25,000 gift to establish the first VIP Family/Patient Room at the hospital. These rooms will accommodate family members and patients during a difficult stay in the hospital. The room will be renovated in a "hotel-like decor" to make patients and their families as comfortable as possible. Often a family member wishes to stay with a loved one during a difficult hospital stay, so the room will have a comfortable pullout sofa bed for staying the night. This room is the first of four to be renovated to address the need for patient/family accommodations. Supporting the hospital is not new to the Brodesser Family. Tom has served on the Hospital Board for many years and has supported the hospital whenever possible. His daughters, Tammy Gomez, (who operates Beachcomber Campgrounds), and Maggie Robinson ([who operates Holly Shores Campground]), are following their father's footsteps. The $25,000 gift is a combination of fundraising efforts at the Brodesser Campgrounds, operated by Ken and Tammy Gomez, and a personal contribution and commitment from Tom and Claire Brodesser. Each yeah the campground holds numerous events to raise money to support Burdette. "Burdette Tomlin is a very important part of our community. The hospital has provided great care to many of the campground residents throughout the year. We are grateful for the care and services provided to those needing health care...giving back to Burdette is our way of saying thank-you!" explained Tom Brodesser, owner of Beachcomber Campgrounds. "After all, ‘It all comes back to you."

Dec 2002

Beachcomber Campground Raises funds for Burdette - Cape May Star and Wave

LOWER TOWNSHIP – The Beachcomber Camping Resort, owned by the Brodesser family, recently presented a check in the amount of $16,800 to Burdette Tomlin Memorial Foundation. This marks the eighth year Beachcomber has held fundraising events at the campground to benefit Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital.
This years events included a spring polar bear plunge, rubber ducky regatta, bike standoff and a carnival weekend. The resort held silent and live auctions for both kids and adults. Campers participated in Bingo Mania for free seasonal sites at summer's end.
Generous donations from community businesses and Beachcomber campers made this year's hospital fundraisers a great success.
Many at the resort donated their time and effort, including Allison Stewart, Stacey Mason, Mike Scuito, Pat Davis, Roe Busicemi, Lucille Lux, George Strano, Trish Liberati, Dan and Sue Yohey, John Mason, Tracy Golden, Cesar Santiago and many others.

Dec 2001

Beachcomber Campground contributes over $13K to Burdette Oncology Center - Cape May Star and Wave

COURT HOUSE – Polar bears plunged, rubber ducks raced and bingo lovers stamped their ink pads dry this summer. And in the end, the Brodesser family and the campers at the Beachcomber Camping Resort raised $13,500 for Burdette Tomlin's Radiation Oncology Center.
This marks the seventh year the Beachcomber, in Lower Township, held fund0raising events to benefit Burdette Tomlin. The resort starts with a polar bear plunge in the spring and continues with fun festivities throughout the summer, including a rubber ducky regatta, a bike stand-off, a carnival weekend, auctions and bingo. Cape May County businesses and residents generously supported Beachcomber's efforts by donating merchandise, gift certificates and cash.
"The Brodesser Family and Beachcomber Camping Resort would like to thank the community businesses and Beachcomber campers for their generous donations and for making this year's fundraiser so successful" said Gomez. "An extra special thanks goes to Beachcomber volunteers Jan Stumpf, Roe Busicemi, Lucille Lux, George Strano, Rhonda Woods, Trish Liberati, Mr. And Mrs. Yohey, MaryColleen Thomason, John Mason, Cesar Santiago and others for all the time and effort they put into making our fundraising program so fun."

Nov 2000	Philanthropic Campground - Cape May Star and Wave
	Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser family were proud to present the Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital emergency department with a check in the amount of $9,000. This marks the seventh year the Beachcomber has held major fundraiding projects at the campground to benefit the hospital. Beachcomber hosted two major events during the year 2000 for its campers. Accepting the check on behalf of the emergency department is Burdette's John Ruskey, DO, FACEP. Burdette expresses its gratitude to the Brodesser family, Beachcomber staff, volunteers and campers, and the participating community businesses who sponsored these events for their generous donations.

Oct 2000	LT Champer will present awards to local businesses - Cape May Star and Wave
	LOWER TOWNSHIP – The Lower Township Chamber of Commerce will present the Citizen of the Year Award to John Linnington III, Title Insurance Co. of Jersey at its annual awards banquet. The banquet will take place on Tuesday, Oct 17, 6p.m. at the Lobster House Restaurant. Beautification Awards will be presented to Eckerd Drug Store and Dr. Edward Tinney, New Construction; Utsch's Marina, Renovations; S&F Gas Works, Villas, Landscaping; and Beachcomber Campground, Signage Landscaping.

Aug 2000	Cape to Canadians: C'mon down! Country luring visitors from north – Atlantic City Press - Trudi Filfillian
	Phillippe Page represents the future of Canadian tourism in Cape May County. As a child, he first came to the area with his parents. Now 20, Page returned to the county this week, along with his girlfriend and two other friends to go camping at the Holly Shores Campground. While here, the young visitors plan trips to Wildwood's beaches and Boardwalk. "It's always good to get our of our country," Page said. "I came here to speak English, meet English (speaking) people and have fun with them." In the 1970's Canadians represented 25perfect of all visitors who came to New Jersey's southernmost county, according to the county's director of tourism, Diane Wieland. Cape May County's main draw for Canadian visitors is the beach and warmer ocean temperatures, said Christine Harry, marketing director for the Greater Wildwood Hotel & Motel Association. "They love the Boardwalk and the beach, and (Cape May County) is a lot closer than Florida," she said. Most visitors from Canada drive here between nine and 12 hours to get down here. The county sends representatives to several Canadian travel shows and advertises in several publications. Businesses like Chez Alain and The Sherwood in North Wildwood and the Beachcomber Camping Resort in Lower Township also do much of their own advertising. "Compared to the last year or two, we're up 20 percent in Canadian visitors," Beachcomber director of Marketing Allison Miller said. While the debate over how to increase the Canadian market in the country continues, visitors like Daniel Lacourse say that despite the low exchange rate he will continue to visit the New Jersey shore. Through an interpreter he said the water is warmer and the beaches are beautiful. "I just made up my mind and decided to come," he said.

July 2000	Beachcomber Resort Focuses on Families - The Mid-Atlantic Lifestyle Guide
	When sixth grader Allison Miller and her family decided to visit Beachcomber Camping Resort for their first camping trip, it was an event that shaped their lives forever. Allison's parents were so impressed with their weekend stay that they became regular RVers, even forming a local chapter of the Good Sam Club. They've been hooked on the lifestyle ever since. As for young Allison, she now lives and works at the resort as director of marketing and special events. Obviously, she finds evangelizing the wonders of this New Jersey resort campground to be rather easy. "We consider ourselves a real family campground; everything from our rates to the activities are based on the gamily" said Miller, who's been with the campground for five years. "And we try to offer a clean atmosphere. It's beautifully landscaped here – I sound like an ad, don't I?" Although the effects of the campground may not be as life-changing on all guests as it was on Allison and her family, the 100-acre park, with its proximity to the ocean and long list of recreation options, has a lot to offer East Coast travelers. For starters, the Jersey shore and splendid resort towns of Cape May and Wildwood are just a few miles away. Cape May offers upscale shopping and wonderful historic Victorian architecture and Wildwood is family-friendly with a heady mix of amusement parks, games, food and events. Spend your days moseying up and down the famous boardwalks with funnel cakes and hot dogs in hands, or simply relax on the beach. Both towns attract a lot of specialty events, such as a car show, craft fairs and festivals of all kinds. Hardly a summer weekend foes by without an event setting up stakes. It that's not enough action for you, take a bus tour from the campground to test your luck in Atlantic City, which is less than an hour away. Once you tire of the shore exploits, you can find a whole onslaught of other events at the park. Long-time owners, Tom and Claire Brodesser, now in their 25th year of operation, build the park from scratch and are constantly looking for ways to please visitors. For instance, every weekend features a theme and is packed with planned activities for the kids. Upcoming events include a Hawaiian luau, Tex-Mex hoe down and Christmas in July, where Santa ditches the sleigh and makes his appointed rounds by boat. Water fun abounds at the park, with three adult and kiddie-pool complexes, a large lake with sandy beach and Snack Cabana, a fishing lake (catch-and-release only ) and paddle boat and kayak rentals. Adults looking for a dun-free haven can hit the adults-only clubhouse that features a pool table, dart game, kitchen and TV/VCR. Choice of accommodations range from deluxe lakefront cabins, which sleep up to eight, to no-hookup sites - and everything in between. Starting this year, Beachcomber is offering fully-lit Ultra sites located in the heart of the park, complete with cable TV and patios. These sites are accessible to rigs up to 40 feet in length. Other nice camping perks for all guests include free daily newspapers, propane gas, a full-service grocery store, fax/copy service and beach tags for Cape May. There's also a good chance the park will once again offer a trolley service to the Jersey shore. One word of note: so you're not surprised, expect a fee (25 cents for approximately five minutes) to use the shower facilities. With an array of nearby family attractions and on-site activities, the Beachcomber Camping Resort will keep adults and children entertained during your stay. Whether you try your luck in Atlantic City or try your hand at kayaking, there is plenty to do. And after you've had a busy day on the shore, you can sit by the pool and do absolutely nothing.

June 2000	Anderson's Announces Winner - Pop Up Times
	Scott Gardner of Magnolia, New Jersey, won the seven day camping trip sponsored by Anderson's Campground and RV Park Travel Directory in celebration of Anderson's 25th anniversary. The drawing was held February 17 in the office of Gayle Mason, CPA and Gardner's name was pulled from the many entries received. The Gardners could have chosen any campground listed in the 1999 edition of Anderson's and chose Beachcomber Campground in Cape May, New Jersey. The prize covers two adults and two dependent children. Anderson's Campground and RV Park Travel Directory covers the area of New York through the Florida Keys and included private, state, and federal campgrounds.

June 2000	Spotlight on Beachcomber Camping Resort - Pop Up Times - Jack Anderson
	Cape May, New Jersey is absolutely one of my favorite places to visit. In the past, I've been there on day trips, and overnight visits at several of the many bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but I've never camped there. The beaches of Cape May and Wildwood are wonderful, with clean, find sand that's packed enough for bicycle riding, and gentle ocean waves where kids can play safely. So, when Allison Miller of Beachcomber Camping Resort invited my family to visit the campground, I jumped at the opportunity. Beachcomber Camping Resort is located just southwest of Rio Grande, New Jersey, near the Cape May County Airport. It is not located on the beach, rather, it's inland in the more rural areas of the Cape May peninsula. Still, it's only a brief five minute drive to the beaches of either Wildwood or Cape May, so spending a day at the beach is easy and convenient. We arrived at Beachcomber after about a four hour drive from Virginia. IN addition to the four of us, our sons brought along two of their friends. Our check in was fast and efficient, and I was immediately impressed with the number of staff people on hand to check in arriving campers. Once we were issued a cardkey for the security gate, it was time to set up camp and begin exploring the campground. Our campsite was located in a heavily wooded area with tent campers and other pop-ups and was sandy and level. Immediately upon our arrival, the neighboring party, who were in the process of packing for departure, offered their very large stack of firewood to us for the weekend. We had enough wood for the rest of the trip, with plenty left over! Everyone else we met was just as friendly. If I had to sum up the Beachcomber Camping Resort experience with one word, that word would be "Activities!" Staying at Beachcomber is like going to summer camp. There were so many activities, we had a difficult time convincing our kids and their friends that there actually was a real ocean beach nearby, and that we really should visit it sometime before we leave! They enjoyed playing Bingo, Capture the Flag and participating in the many arts and crafts projects that were offered during our stay. In addition to the activities, there are three adult and three kiddie swimming pools, a catch and release fishing pong, a freshwater swimming lake and a major league playground. Kayak and paddle boat rentals are available at the lake. A well stocked camp store, snack bar and plenty of friendly, helpful staff round our the amenities at Beachcomber Camping Resort. Everyone wants to know about the bathrooms, and I'm please to say that the folks at Beachcomber fo out of their way to make sure the bathrooms, and for that matter, the rest of the campground, are kept neat and clean. The showers are coin operated, and a quarter buys enough time for a nice hot shower. Beachcomber recently added a VIP section to their campground, and I took the time to walk through this area during my stay. The camp sites in the VIP area are spacious and feature full RV hookups. A couple of small sections of split rail fence help to define where each site begins and ends, an attractive lamp post holds the sign with the campsite number and provides gentle illumination at night. Additionally the VIP sites have level concrete pads for easy setup. My family enjoyed its stay at Beachcomber and we've already scheduled a return visit. It's a great way to enjoy the sights, beaches and shopping in the historic Cape May area. Beachcomber Camping Resort is owned and operated by the Brodesser family and located at 462 Seashore Road in Cape May, New Jersey. You can reach them at (609)886-6035 or visit them on the internet at www.beachcombercamp.com

Mar 2000	Cape May Beaches Named Among America's Best – Gazette -Donna Rocap
	We know our beaches are great. Now the rest of the country does too. Cape May County beaches, most notably those in Cape May and Wildwood, have been named among the Travel Channel's top 10 beaches in America. The cable channel began airing a program, "America's Best Beaches", March 8, showing Cape May as their number 8 choice of best beaches in the U.S. In the show, the host says Cape May is a good beach because, as a peninsula, it is cooler in the summer than beaches farther north. Other reasons given for the choice included Cape May's standing as one of only five historic landmark cities in the country and the availability of acommodations.

Dec 1999

But First a Nap - Cape May Star and Wave

The newest member of the Brodesser family, Mary Claire Gomez, recently presented the Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital with a $7,800 donation for the hospital's emergency department and radiation therapy construction project. The donation was raised during several fundraising events the Brodessers held at their Beachcomber Camping Resort in Lower Township. Mary Claire managed to hand off the check to President and CEO, Tom Scott, before nodding off for a nap. The first event was helf in August. The Beachcomber hosted auctions, bingo and other activities using generous donations of gift certificates and merchandise from area businesses as prizes. Campers pitched in and helped raise $3,637. The campground hosted a second event in September during Seasonal Campers' weekend. The Brodesser family donated a season site and all proceeds benefited the hospital. The prize was awarded during the resort's annual Bingo Mania game. Organizers raised $4,078 through the sale of special bingo cards and other weekend events. This is the sixth year the Brodessers have held special activities at their resort to benefit Burdette Tomlin. "The Brodesser family and the Beachcomber Campground would like to thank the community businesses and our campers for their generous donations. You are the reason our fundraisers are so successful," said Tamalynne Gomez.

Nov 1998	HealthStart Donation - Cape May Star and Wave
	Beachcomber helps Burdette Tomlin: The Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser family recently presented Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital with a $7,400 check for the hospital's emergency room renovation project. The campground located in Lower Township, held bingo games, auctions and other activities to raise the generous contribution. The Brodesser family awarded a free 1999 seasonal campsite in one of th bingo games. "We thank everyone especially our campers and local businesses, who helped make this year's fund-raiser a bid success." said Tamalynne Gomez, Beachcomber general manager. This was the fifth year in a row the campground raised funds for Burdette Tomlin.

July 1998	Burdette Fund-Raiser to be Held at Local Campground - Cape May Star and Wave
	Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser family will hold Beachcomber's 5th Annual Fund Raising Bash on Aug 7-9, 1998. The management and staff will organize games, auctions, bingo and other activities with all money raised to go to the Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital Emergency Room. Beachcomber staff and volunteers will be calling the owners and managers of businesses throughout Cape May County that have contributed to the successful fund raiser during the past four years. The campground looks forward to a successful 1998 fund raiser. With the help of local business leaders and campers, Beachcomber looks forward to exceeding their 1997 goal.

Sept 1997	HealthStart Receives Boost From Brodesser Family - Burdette Bulletin
	The Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser family recently presented BTMH with a $3,872.39 check to benefit the HealthStart Clinic. The Brodesser family raised the money through activities at their campground, including bingo and an auction. They credited local businesses and campers with helping to make the fund raiser a success.

Sept 1997	HealthStart Donation - Cape May Star and Wave
	The Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser family recently presented Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital with a $3,872 check for the hospital's HealthStart program. Pictured above, left to right are Tammy Gomez, Beachcomber manager; Jan Stumpf, seasonal volunteer at the Beachcomber; Jeannine Koknar, R.N., OB clinic case coordinator; and Rose Luongo, Beachcomber activity director. The donation was raised through the combined effort of local businesses, campers and the Brodesser family. A variety of activities were held at the Beachcomber to raise funds for HealthStart, including an auction, bingo, races, and face painting. Burdette Tomlin's HealthStart clinic provides prenatal and maternity care for low income families in Cape May County.

Sept 1997	Local Family Makes Donation to Burdette - Atlantic City Press
	The Brodesser family, owners of the Beachcomber Camping Resort in Cape May, presented Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital with a check for $3,872 for the hospital's HealthStart program. The program provides prenatal and maternity care for low-income families in Cape May County. The funds were raised through the efforts of local businesses, campers and the Brodessers.

Sept 1997	HealthStart Donation - The Bright Side
	The Beachcomber Camping Resort and the Brodesser family recently presented Burdette Tomlin Hospital with a $3,872 check for the hospital's HealthStart program. The donation was raised through the combined effort of local businesses, campers and the Brodesser family, which owns the Beachcomber.

UPDATED APRIL 3, 2008